Who Needs the Thailand TDAC? Exemptions, Children & Transit
Short answer: every non-Thai national entering Thailand needs a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) — by air, land or sea, including children and infants. Only a few groups are exempt.
Who this is for: anyone unsure whether they, their kids or their transit itinerary need a TDAC.
Open the official TDAC form →tdac.immigration.go.th · Immigration Bureau of Thailand · FreeKeep this page open in another tab if you get stuck on a field.
Do I need a TDAC? Quick check
| You are | TDAC needed? |
|---|---|
| Tourist or business visitor (any non-Thai passport) | Yes |
| Children and infants (non-Thai) | Yes — each one, or in a group submission |
| Long-stay visa, work permit or retirement visa holder returning to Thailand | Yes |
| Diplomatic passport holder (non-Thai) | Yes |
| Tour or incentive group member | Yes — an agent can submit for you |
| Arriving overland (Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar borders) | Yes |
| Arriving by sea (cruise, ferry, yacht) | Yes |
| Transit passenger who leaves the airport | Yes |
| Transit passenger staying airside (no immigration) | No |
| Operating aircraft or ship crew | No |
| Border Pass holder (designated neighbouring-country nationals) | No |
| Thai national | No |
Families and groups
One person can submit a group TDAC for up to 10 travellers. Each person still gets their own record, and each needs their own passport details entered. Travel agencies and tour operators are also allowed to submit TDACs on behalf of their clients.
Transit through Bangkok or Phuket
If you're connecting to another country and never pass through Thai immigration, you don't need a TDAC. If you'll collect bags and re-check them, leave the airport, or stay overnight in a city hotel, you're entering Thailand — submit a TDAC.
When to submit
Within 3 days before arrival, counting the arrival date. Step-by-step TDAC guide →
Frequently asked questions
Do children and babies need a TDAC?
Yes. Every non-Thai traveller needs one, including infants. Parents can include children in a group submission of up to 10 people.
Do transit passengers need a TDAC?
Only if they leave the airport. Passengers who stay in the international transit area without passing immigration don't need one.
Do I need a TDAC if I live in Thailand on a long-stay visa?
Yes. The rule covers all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand, including visa and permit holders returning from abroad.
Do Thai citizens need a TDAC?
No. The TDAC is only for non-Thai nationals.
Do I need a TDAC crossing by land from Malaysia, Laos or Cambodia?
Yes. It's required for all foreigners entering by air, land or sea. Border Pass holders from neighbouring countries are exempt.
Do diplomatic passport holders need a TDAC?
Yes, if they're non-Thai nationals, according to the official FAQ.
Official sources
- Thailand Digital Arrival Card — official portal (tdac.immigration.go.th)
- Official TDAC FAQ — Immigration Bureau, Royal Thai Police
- Immigration Bureau of Thailand
- Thailand e-Visa — official site (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)