Thailand now uses a digital arrival card called the TDAC. It replaces the old paper TM.6. All non-Thai visitors must complete it online before they enter the country. It’s fast. It’s simple. And it’s free. 👉 Fill out your TDAC here on the official Immigration website Important: Only use the official Immigration link above. Beware of third-party sites that charge a fee. The TDAC itself has no fee. Who needs it and when Who: All non-Thai nationals entering Thailand by air, land, or sea (even if you have an extended VISA/work permit) When: Submit within 3 days (72 hours) before you arrive. Include the day you land. Transit: If you do not pass immigration (true airside transit), you don’t need TDAC. If you leave the airport, you do. Kids: Each traveler needs their own TDAC, including infants. What you need ready Passport details Flight number and arrival date First-night address in Thailand (your Koh Tao stay if you have it) Travel purpose Email address (you’ll receive a QR code by email) How to complete the TDAC (step-by-step) Go to the official portal: tdac.immigration.go.th/arrival-card/ Choose Individual or Group (up to 10 travelers). Enter your personal info, trip and accommodation details, and the health section (if shown). Review and submit. Save the confirmation and QR code. Keep it on your phone. A printout is optional. Tip: You can update many details before you travel. If you need to change your name, nationality, passport number, or date of birth, submit a new form and use the latest one. At the airport Show your QR code from email or your saved file. Kiosks and Wi-Fi are available at major airports if you need help. There are TDAC kiosks at Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Don Mueang (DMK), Phuket (HKT), Chiang Mai (CNX), and Hat Yai (HDY). Common mistakes to avoid Submitting earlier than 72 hours before arrival. Typos in your name, passport number, nationality, or date of birth. Forgetting to note your first-night address in Thailand. Using an unofficial website that asks for payment. FAQs for divers Do I need TDAC if I fly to Surat Thani/Chumphon/Samui and then take a ferry? Yes. TDAC is required for land, sea, and air entry. Complete it before you travel. I’m visa-exempt or using Visa on Arrival. Do I still need it? Yes. TDAC is required for all non-Thai visitors, regardless of visa type. No smartphone? You can use airport kiosks and Wi-Fi. Still, it’s best to submit before you fly. Getting to Koh Tao after immigration Once you’re through immigration, you’re Koh Tao-bound! For the smoothest routes, ferries, and tips, read our simple guide: How to get to Koh Tao: a comprehensive guide. Come dive with Phoenix DiversWe teach SSI courses and run fun dives all year. Our team keeps things relaxed and safe. We know the sites, the seasons, and the fish with attitude. Want to plan your first dive, your next course, or a chilled reef day? Send us a message. Let’s go diving in Koh Tao.Get in touch