TDAC vs Thailand E-Visa – Which One Is Right for Your Trip?

Planning a trip to Thailand? Understanding the latest travel requirements is key to a smooth entry. Two important systems travelers often come across are the Thailand Digital Arrival Card and the Thailand E-Visa. While they might be similar at a glance, each serves a distinct role in the travel process.

Understanding the digital arrival card

Think of it as a digital record that speeds up entry for both visa-free travelers and those arriving with a pre-approved visa or visa on arrival. However, this form does not replace a visa. It is simply a part of the arrival procedure, designed to make border control faster and more efficient.

What is a Thailand e-visa?

The Thailand E-Visa is an official travel document that allows eligible travelers to apply for a Thai visa online without visiting an embassy or consulate in person. It streamlines the visa process for those who need a visa before entering the country.

 Unlike the TDAC, the E-visa is a mandatory document for travelers from non-visa-exempt countries. Once approved, travelers receive a confirmation email that they must print and show to the airline staff and immigration officers at the point of entry.

This service is available for tourists, business visitors, students, and more, depending on the visa type selected during the application process.

Key differences between TDAC and E-Visa

Who should apply for the E visa?

You must apply for an e-visa if your nationality is not covered under the Thailand visa exemption policy. This includes travelers from countries like Ethiopia, Nauru, and Vanuatu.

You must apply from outside Thailand, and your passport must remain valid for at least 6 months. After submitting your application online, along with the required documents like a return (ticket, passport bio page, accommodation details, and a 4×6 cm photo. You will receive a pre-approved visa via email.

E-Visas are accepted at major airports, including:

• Suvarnabhumi International Airport
•  Don Mueang International Airport
•  Chiang Mai International Airport
•  Phuket International Airport

Required documents for Thailand e-visa

To apply for a Thailand e-visa, ensure you have the following documents:

• Valid passport: must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
• Recent photograph: a passport-size photo taken within the last 6 months.
•  flight itinerary: Proof of round trip or onward travel.
•  Accommodation details: Hotel bookings or address where you will be staying.
•  Financial proof: a bank statement or other evidence showing sufficient funds for your stay,
•  signed declaration: A COMPLETED and signed declaration form.

 Note: all documents should be in JPG format and not exceed 3 MB in size.

How to apply for a Thailand e-visa 

Follow these steps to apply for your EVISA:

1. Visit the official website: Go to Thai evisa.gov.th
2.  Create an account: Register using a valid email address and set up a profile
3.  Create a new application: Select Apply for a new Visa and choose the appropriate visa type based on your purpose of visit.

4.  Fill in professional information: provide your personal and travel details as prompted
5.  Upload required documents: attach all necessary documents as listed above
6.  Pay the visa fee: complete the payment using the available online payment options
7.  Submit the application: review all information and submit your application
8.  Wait for approval: processing time typically takes 3 to 10 business days.

What is an E-VOA (visa on arrival)?

For selected nationalities, Thailand also offers an e-Visa on arrival, which speeds up the arrival process. Instead of applying for a full visa in advance, eligible travelers can pre-register online, pay the visa fees, and receive a pre-approved letter. Upon arrival, they go through a dedicated lane, show their documents, and receive final approval from immigration officers.

The regular visa fee is 2,000 THB, and an additional service fee applies, depending on whether you choose regular or express processing.

List of 18 nations that qualify for the E-VOA Programme:

• Bhutan
• Bulgaria 
• Cyprus
• China
• Uzbekistan
• Taiwan
• Vanuatu
• Saudi Arabia
• Romania
• Papua New Guinea
• Nauru
• Mexico 
• Malta
• Kazakhstan
• India 
• Georgia 
• Fiji
• Ethiopia

Which one do you need?

 Here is how to decide between the two:

•  You need the Thailand digital arrival card if you are visiting for a short stay and your country is part of the visa-exempt list, or if you already have a visa.
• You need the E visa if you require a visa to enter Thailand and want to avoid visiting an embassy. It is mandatory if your country is not eligible for a Visa exemption or a visa on arrival.

In some cases, travelers may need both the E-Visa to legally enter Thailand and the Thailand digital arrival card to complete immigration formalities. 

Thailand E-Visa Fee

The fee for a Thai e-visa varies according to the type of visa, but a standard e-visa fee is 2000 THB, and an express e-visa can be 3000 THB.

Contact Information

Email: [email protected]

Hotline Number: +66(0) 2203-5000

FAQs About Thailand E-Visa

Conclusion

Thailand has made significant progress in digitalizing and simplifying its entry process. While both the Thailand digital arrival card and visa serve different functions, they work together to ensure smooth and secure entry for international visitors.

Before you travel, check your eligibility, prepare your documents, and ensure that you complete the right process based on your country of origin and visa requirements.