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TDAC and THIM - Two Systems, One Trip: Don't Skip Either

By the Thailand Visa Centre teamPublished 27 June 2026Updated 30 June 2026
TDACTHIM
Two blank arrival planning cards, a navy folder and abstract route lines overlooking the Bangkok river

In short

The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) remains the mandatory pre-arrival declaration for most travellers. The incoming THIM app adds immigration workflow tools - they are related but not interchangeable.

What's changing

Since 2025, TDAC has been the official channel to submit arrival information digitally before landing. THIM, rolling out in 2026, targets immigration processing efficiency - queue reduction, digital identity checks, and eventual reporting features.

Confusion arises when travellers assume completing one satisfies the other. Airlines and border officials can deny boarding or delay entry if TDAC is missing, even if THIM is installed. During rollout, requirements may differ by airport - Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang typically lead policy first.

Who is affected

Every international arrival - complete TDAC within the published window before departure (typically 72 hours).

Families and groups - one submission per traveller; minors included.

Long-stay visa holders re-entering - TDAC still required each entry; visa stamp governs stay length, not the apps.

Cruise and land-border entrants - confirm port-specific rules; digital requirements lag air arrivals.

What you should do

Screenshot your TDAC confirmation and keep THIM installed before you fly. On a managed application, we send a country-specific arrival pack updated when Immigration publishes changes.

Check how this affects you

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Further reading

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Destination Thailand VisaDTV eligibility, permitted activities and application support.Retirement visaNon-OA, Non-OX and extension planning for applicants aged 50+.Business visaNon-B applications, employer documents and business setup support.Non-Immigrant O visaRetirement, marriage, family and volunteer Non-O routes.SMART visaTalent, investor and executive long-stay routes for targeted sectors.Tourist visaSingle-entry, multiple-entry and stay-extension planning.Long-Term Resident visaLTR route checks for professionals, investors and wealthy pensioners.Work permitThai work authorisation after the correct visa route is selected.Marriage visaFamily-based Non-O visa and in-country extension planning.Education visaApproved study, language, Muay Thai and training routes.Visa extensionIn-country extensions, deadlines and required evidence.Document legalisationCertified documents, translations and consular preparation.

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