Thailand Entry Rules 2025: TDAC Guide & Insurance

The Thai government will require all foreign tourists to fill out a TDAC before they can enter the country after 2025. This digital version of the old TM6 immigration form will be central to Thailand's new, more modern immigration system.

The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is what TDAC stands for. Tourists must fill out this online form before they come to Thailand. What it gathers:

1. Data on a passport

2. Details about flights

3. Address of where to stay in Thailand

4. Statements about health (if needed)

5. Information on travel insurance

After the application is sent and accepted, a QR code is generated and must be shown upon arrival.

Thailand's government has clarified that the switch to digital paperwork is not a direct answer to the unrest but a step towards modernising tourism as a whole. But growing worries about safety, especially near borders and during elections, have made a digital tracking system like TDAC even more critical.

This means that political unrest has sped up these Thailand entry requirements 2025, though it is not the only reason.

This is what the new Thailand entry requirements and standards say:

1. Required Submission:

Every traveller, even children, must complete a TDAC independently.

2. Submission Deadline:

This form must be filled out at least 72 hours before the trip.

3. QR Code:

To get through customs, you must show a valid TDAC that generates a scannable QR code.

4. Accuracy Matters:

It's essential to be accurate; if your ID number and ticket information don't match, you could be turned away.

5. Language:

You must fill out the form in English.

If you don't follow the rules, you could face delays, fines, or the inability to board at the exit airport.

The process to fill the TDAC is straightforward:

1. Visit the Official TDAC Portal:

(Website to be released by Thai Immigration)

2. Create an Account:

Using your email and mobile number.

3. Fill the Form:

◦ Passport number

◦ Flight number and arrival time

◦ Hotel or residential address in Thailand

◦ Purpose of visit

4. Attach Travel Documents:

Upload a copy of your passport and travel insurance (if required).

5. Submit and download the QR Code once approved.

The approval generally takes a few hours, but travellers are advised to apply at least 24 hours before flying.

Mistakes happen, but you can correct them. To update an already submitted TDAC:

1. Log in to the portal

2. Go to ‘My Submissions’

3. Click ‘Edit’ (available only once before approval)

4. Resubmit changes

To make changes after acceptance, you have to cancel and reapply. The immigration office suggests you print out a copy of the TDAC QR code just in case something goes wrong.

Yes, the government strongly suggests getting full coverage travel insurance for Thailand, but it's not required for all visitors. Visitors seeking medical tourism or long-term visas (more than 30 days) may be required to show proof of travel insurance cover.

Coverage that is at least minimally suggested includes:

1. Medical expenses up to USD 10,000

2. COVID-19 treatment

3. Repatriation

4. Personal liability

It is essential to carefully read the rules for your visa type because some may require proof of coverage during the TDAC process.

Getting international travel insurance is one of the best things a traveller can do, even if it's not required. This is especially true in 2025. TDAC now includes extra insurance information. Policies that cover health, trip cancellation, theft, and delays can speed up the landing process and keep things from going wrong.

Be on the lookout for plans made just for Southeast Asia that cover city and countryside stays. If you will do adventure sports like scuba diving or hiking, ensure your travel insurance covers them.

1. Is the TDAC not the same as a visa?

Yes. The TDAC is not the same thing as your visa. You must apply for the TDAC and a visa (if you need one). Tourists must get TDAC, no matter what kind of visa they have.

2. Can I fill out TDAC for more than one person in a group?

Not at all. Each person needs to fill out their own TDAC form. Group entries are not allowed, so there is no confusion, and each entry is checked individually.

3. Do I need travel insurance when I go on a short 5-day trip?

You don't have to do it for short stays, but you should. Emergencies can happen anytime, and a short trip without insurance can cost a lot.