The essentials in one table
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Price | Free |
| Who | Every foreign traveller, children included, by air, land or sea |
| When | Within the 3 days before arrival, arrival day included |
| Where | Official immigration website: tdac.immigration.go.th |
| What you get | A confirmation with a QR code, to keep on your phone or printed |
Who must fill it in
All foreigners entering Thailand, whether they hold a visa or use the visa exemption. Each person has their own card, children included, and a new one is needed each time you enter the country. According to the guides we read, passengers in simple transit who stay in the transit area without passing immigration do not need one; if you leave the airport or collect your luggage, fill it in. If in doubt, the answer is on the official site.
The TDAC is not a visa: it gives no right of entry. For the visa-free stay length and your passport, see visa and entry to Thailand.
When to fill it in
According to the sources we read, the form opens 3 days before arrival, arrival day included (how the days are counted should be confirmed on the official site). Do not leave it too late: if the screen refuses, you lose time at the counter. If your flight changes date, check that the information on the card still matches.
How to fill it in
- Open only the official Thai immigration website, typing the address yourself.
- Have ready your passport, flight number, arrival date, first-night address and the countries you recently visited.
- Complete the form (identity, trip, accommodation, health declaration).
- Save the confirmation and QR code you receive: a screenshot is enough.
The fake sites
Many sites imitate the official service and charge 20 to 90 dollars according to the Thai press. In March 2026 immigration warned that about 10% of foreigners entering the country had used a fake site. They appear at the top of search engines. Check the address (tdac.immigration.go.th), pay nothing and never give your bank card number.
After the TDAC: arriving in Bangkok
Once the card is done, immigration at Suvarnabhumi takes from 10 minutes to over an hour at busy times. To get into the city afterwards, compare the train and the private transfer in the airport transfer guide: the "tolls included" private transfer is advertised from about $32 and saves you hunting for a taxi after a long flight. See also Bangkok's airports and an eSIM for Bangkok, to install before you leave.
FAQ
Does the TDAC cost money? No. The official service is free.
Do I need one for a child? Yes, every traveller has their own card.
What is the official website? tdac.immigration.go.th, the Thai immigration website.
What if I have no wifi at the airport? Fill it in before the flight, on your phone, and keep the confirmation.
