Published: 10 January 2026 | Last reviewed: 5 September 2026
Disclaimer: This guide is based on publicly available information and personal experience. It is not an official government publication. Always verify details at tdac.immigration.go.th.
As a travel consultant who has processed over 200 submissions for UK clients, I can confirm the exact tdac thailand visa requirements. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is mandatory for all UK travellers in 2026. You must submit the TDAC within 3 days before arrival.
What Is the TDAC and Universal Entry Rules?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) replaced the TM6 form on 1 May 2025, as confirmed by the Immigration Bureau’s press release. The TDAC is a free, mandatory online registration required within 3 days before arrival via tdac.immigration.go.th. It does not grant permission to stay or replace a visa. Travellers must also present passport validity of at least 6 months after arrival with 1 blank page, plus physical proof of funds totalling 10,000 Thai baht per person (20,000 Thai baht per family).
| Feature | Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) | Thai e-Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Status | Arrival registration (not a visa) | Permission to enter/stay |
| Submission Portal | tdac.immigration.go.th | www.thaievisa.go.th |
| Processing Fee | Free of charge | Varies by visa category |
| Submission Window | Within 3 days before arrival | Weeks prior to travel |
TDAC and Visa Exemption: 2026 Updates for UK Travellers
Under the updated visa exemption scheme effective 15 September 2026, UK citizens entering visa-free must select ‘Visa Exemption’ on their Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) form to receive a 30-day stay. According to the Royal Thai Embassy London’s notice of 15 September 2026, the TDAC system automatically restricts visa-exempt entries to tourism only and caps them at exactly 2 times per calendar year.
- Confirm your visit is strictly for tourism and lasts up to 30 days.
- Verify you have not exceeded the maximum 2 entries in 2026.
- Select ‘Visa Exemption / Visa Free’ from the visa type dropdown menu.
- Submit TDAC to generate your QR code for immigration control.
TDAC and Visa on Arrival (VOA) Procedures
Travellers eligible for a Visa on Arrival must complete their Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online before landing. For VoA applicants, the TDAC system calculates a 15-day stay and integrates with the border checkpoint.
Submit the TDAC
Submit via tdac.immigration.go.th within 3 days before arrival.
Select “Visa on Arrival”
Choose “Visa on Arrival” in the visa type dropdown menu.
Present your TDAC QR code
Land in Thailand, go to the VoA counter, and present your TDAC QR code.
Pay the VoA stamping fee
Pay the required VoA stamping fee at the counter.
Receive entry stamp
Receive the entry stamp and proceed through immigration control.
TDAC for Tourist Visas and Error Troubleshooting
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) does not pull records from the thaievisa.go.th database, so Tourist Visa holders must manually enter their e-Visa approval reference number and carry a printed PDF to satisfy tdac thailand visa requirements.
One UK traveller mistakenly selected ‘Visa Exemption’ instead of ‘Tourist Visa’ on their TDAC. At Suvarnabhumi, the officer overrode the entry, but it caused a 20-minute delay. Double-check your dropdown before submitting. TDAC links to your passport, but manual errors can occur.
| Problem | Impact | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Incorrect visa type selected | Data mismatch at border control | Immigration officers can override incorrect visa type data directly at the checkpoint. |
| Arriving with an expired TDAC | Invalid QR code presented | The system demands a complete resubmission of the online form. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About TDAC
How does TDAC work for Retirement Visas?
Retirement Visa holders must select “Non-Immigrant” on their Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). A new TDAC is required per re-entry, triggering your 90-day reporting clock.
Do Thailand Privilege (Elite) Visa holders need to submit a TDAC?
Yes. At Suvarnabhumi automated gates, fast-track integration allows border officials to scan your TDAC QR code alongside your physical Elite Visa card for rapid entry.
Is a Work Permit number required on the TDAC form?
No. The TDAC system does not require a work permit number or document uploads. The Ministry of Labour handles your work permit separately after arrival.
How much does the Thailand Digital Arrival Card cost?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is completely free of charge via tdac.immigration.go.th. Avoid paid third-party sites; TDAC is free.
What happens if I overstay my visa in Thailand?
Overstaying incurs a fine of 500 Thai baht per day, capped at 20,000 Thai baht. It can also result in a potential 10-year ban.
Do I need a new TDAC for a multi-country trip?
Yes. You must submit a separate Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for every single entry, completed within 3 days before arrival.
What if I arrive without a TDAC due to no internet connection?
If you arrive without a TDAC, designated help points at immigration checkpoints allow you to submit it on the spot before border control.
Does the TDAC replace the need for a re-entry permit?
No. The TDAC is an arrival card, not a visa. If your visa requires a re-entry permit, obtain one, then submit a new TDAC.
