Paying for Thailand’s Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) means encountering a scam, as the official TDAC is provided free of charge exclusively on the government portal, tdac.immigration.go.th. Fraudulent websites mimic the official process, charging fees—often around $10—for what is a complimentary requirement, risking both financial loss and disclosure of sensitive information. The government confirms that legitimate submissions generate a free email confirmation, and travelers should always verify web addresses. Understanding these warnings helps guarantee secure entry into Thailand.
How have digital innovations in border control exposed travelers to new risks? Thailand’s move to the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system, introduced to replace the traditional paper TM6 immigration form, demonstrates both the benefits and emerging vulnerabilities of digitized processes at international borders.
The official TDAC streamlines entry for foreign nationals, allowing them to submit personal and health information up to 72 hours before arrival via the official government portal, tdac.immigration.go.th. This digital shift, intended to ease congestion and reduce paperwork at entry points, is provided entirely free of charge. The TDAC is available at no charge, and travelers should be cautious of any website requesting payment for this service.
Thailand’s TDAC lets travelers submit their details online before arrival, streamlining entry and eliminating paperwork—all at no cost.
However, shortly after the TDAC’s implementation, fraudulent websites began to emerge, exploiting travelers’ unfamiliarity with the new system. These scam platforms often mirror the appearance of the official government site and charge unsuspecting users processing fees, usually around $10, for a service that is, in reality, cost-free. A fake website was launched on the same day as Thailand’s official TDAC system, charging a US$10 processing fee for a service that is actually free, highlighting the speed with which scammers have acted to capitalize on the rollout.
The legitimate TDAC process issues an email confirmation upon successful submission, which travelers must present at immigration checkpoints. For those unable to complete the process online, kiosks are available at airports, though advance submission is recommended to avoid delays.
Travelers using unofficial sites not only risk financial loss but may also encounter legal complications, as submission through non-sanctioned channels can lead to questions about compliance with immigration requirements. It is crucial to verify the website’s authenticity, checking for the official government seal and confirming the domain matches official sources.
Government authorities advise reporting any suspicious platforms and have launched awareness campaigns to inform the public about the risks and how to recognize scams.
All non-Thai nationals entering by air, sea, or land must use the TDAC unless specifically exempted. The information provided is processed and verified within the submission window, contributing to smoother entry procedures.
Recognizing scams, such as sites demanding payment, is essential to avoid unnecessary fees and potential problems during immigration clearance. As countries increasingly digitize border procedures, vigilance and adherence to official guidance are critical for travelers to avoid falling victim to scams and to guarantee a secure, efficient arrival process in Thailand.
