Do you need an entry card for Thailand?
Many foreign travelers entering Thailand need to check whether they must complete an online arrival form before arrival. This form is known as the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, or TDAC.
The TDAC is only one part of the entry process. Travelers should also check passport validity, visa rules, permitted length of stay, onward travel requirements and airline boarding conditions before departure.
For a full explanation of the online arrival form, read the dedicated Thailand Digital Arrival Card TDAC guide.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card overview
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is the official online arrival card used for entering Thailand. It collects basic passport, travel and accommodation information before arrival.
The TDAC is not a visa. If your nationality requires a visa for Thailand, you must still meet the separate visa requirement.
Travelers should use the official Thai immigration website when submitting personal information and avoid unofficial websites that may charge unnecessary fees.
Visa, visa exemption and length of stay
Entry conditions for Thailand depend on your nationality, travel purpose and planned length of stay. Some travelers can enter under visa exemption, while others need a visa before arrival or another form of authorization.
You should check your permitted length of stay before booking long accommodation plans or onward travel. Overstaying can lead to penalties and future entry issues.
The Thailand Entry Card or TDAC does not extend your stay and does not replace a visa.
Passport validity and onward travel
Before traveling to Thailand, check that your passport is valid for your trip and accepted by your airline. Some airlines may apply strict boarding checks before you even reach immigration.
You may also be asked about onward travel, accommodation address or the purpose of your stay. Prepare these details before departure to avoid delays.
Arrival by air, land or sea
Thailand receives travelers through airports, land borders and sea entry points. The documents or checks can vary depending on your route and travel status.
If you enter Thailand by land or sea, do not assume the process is identical to an airport arrival. Always check the latest official guidance before your trip.
Official links for entering Thailand
Use official Thai government or immigration websites when checking entry requirements or submitting travel information. This is especially important when a form asks for passport details, arrival dates or accommodation information.
The official Thailand Digital Arrival Card website is linked from this site for convenience, but travelers should always verify the domain before entering personal data.
Common mistakes before traveling to Thailand
Common mistakes include checking only the arrival card and forgetting visa rules, using unofficial paid websites, submitting travel details too late, or assuming that airline boarding rules are the same as immigration rules.
Prepare your passport, arrival date, accommodation address, contact details, visa status and onward travel information before departure.
Thailand Entry Requirements