The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is completely free when you apply on the official Thai government website. There is no government fee, no processing charge, and no payment required. However, many travelers end up paying unnecessary fees through third-party websites. This guide covers everything you need to know about TDAC costs, visa fees, and how to enter Thailand without overpaying.
Is the Thailand TDAC Free?
Yes – the Thailand TDAC is 100% free. The Thai government does not charge any fee for the digital arrival card. You can apply through the official portal at immigration.go.th without entering any payment information.
The TDAC replaced the old paper TM6 arrival/departure card on May 1, 2025. Just like the TM6 form was free, the digital version maintains the same zero-cost policy. The Thai Immigration Bureau confirmed that the TDAC is a mandatory travel document with no associated government fee.
Key facts about the free TDAC:
- Application cost: 0 THB ($0 USD)
- Processing fee: None
- Government charge: None
- Payment required: No credit card or payment needed
- Official website: immigration.go.th
The only requirement is a valid passport, your travel details, and accommodation information in Thailand. You submit the form online and receive confirmation by email – all at no cost.
Third-Party TDAC Service Fees Explained
While the official TDAC is free, many third-party websites charge $15 to $50 or more to fill out the form on your behalf. These services target travelers who are unfamiliar with the process or worried about making mistakes.
Common third-party fee structures include:
| Service Type | Typical Fee | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Basic form filling | $15-$25 | Agency submits your TDAC form |
| Priority processing | $30-$40 | Faster submission (unnecessary) |
| Premium package | $45-$55+ | Form + “support” + printout |
| Express service | $50-$70+ | Same-day submission claim |
These services are entirely unnecessary. The official TDAC form takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete yourself. The questions are straightforward: passport number, flight details, accommodation address, and basic personal information.
Third-party agencies often appear in search results above the official site, making them look legitimate. Some even use official-sounding names like “TDAC Official Service” or “Thailand Immigration Portal.” Always verify the URL – the only official site is immigration.go.th.
Thailand Visa-on-Arrival Fee (Separate from TDAC)
The visa-on-arrival (VOA) fee is a separate cost from the TDAC. While the TDAC is free, travelers from certain countries must pay a visa fee at the airport.
Visa-on-arrival fee: 2,000 THB (~$57 USD)
This fee applies to citizens of countries that are eligible for visa-on-arrival but not visa-exempt entry. The VOA fee is paid in cash at the immigration counter upon arrival in Thailand.
Countries eligible for visa-on-arrival include:
- India – 2,000 THB
- China – 2,000 THB
- Saudi Arabia – 2,000 THB
- Taiwan – 2,000 THB
- Ukraine – 2,000 THB
Countries with visa-exempt entry (no visa fee) include:
- United States – Free (60-day stay)
- United Kingdom – Free (60-day stay)
- Germany – Free (60-day stay)
- Australia – Free (60-day stay)
- Japan – Free (60-day stay)
Important: Even visa-exempt travelers must still complete the TDAC. The TDAC is not a visa – it is a separate arrival declaration that everyone needs.
How Much Does It Cost to Enter Thailand in 2026?
Your total entry cost depends on your nationality and visa status. Here is a breakdown of all potential costs:
| Cost Item | Visa-Exempt Travelers | VOA Travelers |
|---|---|---|
| TDAC application | Free ($0) | Free ($0) |
| Visa fee | Free ($0) | 2,000 THB (~$57) |
| Travel insurance (recommended) | $10-$50/week | $10-$50/week |
| Airport transfer | $10-$30 | $10-$30 |
| Total minimum | $0 | ~$57 |
For visa-exempt travelers (US, UK, EU, Australia, Japan, and others), the minimum cost to enter Thailand is $0 beyond your flight ticket. The TDAC is free, and no visa fee applies.
For travelers needing a visa on arrival, the minimum cost is approximately $57 for the visa fee alone. The TDAC remains free regardless of visa status.
If you need a tourist visa applied at a Thai embassy or via eVisa, fees range from $30 to $80 depending on your nationality and visa type (single-entry vs. multiple-entry).
TDAC Extension Fees
If you want to extend your stay in Thailand beyond your initial visa period, you can apply for an extension at a Thai immigration office:
- Extension fee: 1,900 THB (~$54 USD)
- Processing time: Same day (typically 1-2 hours)
- Location: Any Thai immigration office
This fee is separate from both the TDAC and your original visa. The extension is not guaranteed and depends on your visa type and eligibility.
How to Apply for TDAC for Free – Step by Step
Follow these steps to complete your TDAC application at zero cost:
Step 1: Visit the official website
Go to immigration.go.th and look for the TDAC application link. Do not use any other website.
Step 2: Create an account (optional)
You can register with an email address or apply as a guest. Registration allows you to check your application status later.
Step 3: Fill in personal details
Enter your full name, nationality, passport number, date of birth, and gender exactly as they appear on your passport.
Step 4: Enter travel information
Provide your flight number, arrival date, departure date, and port of entry (airport name).
Step 5: Add accommodation details
Enter the name and address of your hotel, Airbnb, or other accommodation in Thailand.
Step 6: Review and submit
Double-check all information for accuracy. Errors can cause delays or rejection at the immigration counter.
Step 7: Save confirmation
After submission, you will receive a confirmation email with your TDAC reference number. Save or print this for your arrival.
Timeline: Submit your TDAC within 72 hours (3 days) before your arrival in Thailand. The system does not accept applications more than 72 hours in advance.
Processing time: Most TDAC applications are approved instantly or within 24 hours. You will receive confirmation by email.
Avoiding TDAC Scams and Unnecessary Fees
Unfortunately, TDAC-related scams are common. Here is how to protect yourself:
Red flags to watch for:
- Websites charging a fee for TDAC application
- Sites with URLs that do not end in .go.th
- Emails asking for payment to “process” your TDAC
- Phone calls claiming your TDAC will be cancelled without payment
- Social media ads offering “express TDAC processing” for a fee
How to stay safe:
- Only use immigration.go.th – the official Thai government site
- Never pay for a TDAC – the government does not charge any fee
- Verify the URL before entering personal information
- Ignore unsolicited emails about your TDAC status
- Report scam websites to Thai immigration authorities
If you accidentally paid a third-party for TDAC services, the form was likely still submitted correctly (since these agencies do use the official system). However, you paid for something you could have done yourself for free.
Some legitimate travel agencies include TDAC assistance as part of a broader visa service package. This is acceptable if you are paying for overall visa support, not just the TDAC form itself. Always ask for a breakdown of charges.
