Thailand’s immigration process has entered the digital age with the introduction of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). This convenient online form replaces the traditional TM6 paper form and helps speed up your entry into the country. However, while the system is efficient, many travelers make avoidable mistakes that lead to delays, rejections, or additional screening at the airport.
Avoiding these common errors can save you time, stress, and even the risk of denied entry. This guide walks you through the most frequent issues travelers encounter and offers clear solutions to ensure your application is accurate and complete.
Mistake #1: Entering Incorrect Passport Information
One of the most common—and most serious—errors travelers make is submitting incorrect passport details. Even a small typo can create a mismatch in the system.
What to watch out for:
- Misspelling your full name (especially special characters, middle names, or hyphenated surnames)
- Entering the wrong passport number
- Incorrect passport expiration date
- Selecting the wrong nationality from the dropdown menu
Tip: Always copy your passport number directly from your physical document. Double-check every detail before submitting.
If you’re not sure, platforms like TDAC.info offer support and guidance to help avoid such issues.
Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Date Format
Thailand follows the day/month/year (DD/MM/YYYY) format, while many other countries use month/day/year. If you mix these up, your arrival date or birth date may be recorded incorrectly.
Why it matters: Incorrect dates can cause errors in processing, or your arrival card might be flagged during passport checks.
Tip: When in doubt, look for placeholder text in the form or use the calendar picker to select your dates instead of typing them manually.
Mistake #3: Submitting Last-Minute Applications
Many travelers mistakenly believe they can fill out the TDAC just hours before their flight. While the online process is quick, it’s not instant.
What can go wrong:
- The system might delay processing during peak hours
- You might not get your confirmation email on time
- Errors discovered late can’t be fixed before your flight
Recommendation: Submit your application at least 48 hours before departure. Apply early via TDAC.info to avoid last-minute surprises.
Mistake #4: Uploading a Poor-Quality Passport Image
The TDAC system requires a clear digital image of your passport’s data page. This image helps verify your identity and cross-checks the details you’ve entered.
Common issues include:
- Blurry or low-resolution images
- Glare or shadows hiding passport data
- Cropped images that cut off important info
- Files that are too large or in the wrong format
File guidelines: JPG, PNG, or PDF under 5MB, and in color. Make sure the full data page is visible, including the MRZ (machine-readable zone) at the bottom.
Tip: Take the photo in a well-lit room and place your passport flat on a dark surface.
Mistake #5: Providing Incomplete or Vague Accommodation Details
Your first destination address in Thailand is required for immigration records. Many travelers enter just the name of a hotel or leave the address partially filled out.
What to include:
- Full name of the hotel or host
- Street address
- City and province
- Postal/ZIP code
Why it’s important: Immigration may flag your application if it lacks sufficient detail about where you’ll be staying.
Tip: Have your booking confirmation ready when filling out your TDAC. Copy the address exactly as listed.
Mistake #6: Leaving Required Fields Blank
In a rush to submit the form, some travelers skip required fields or click through the application too quickly.
What happens:
- Your submission might fail without notice
- You could receive a confirmation that’s incomplete or invalid
- You may be asked to redo your application on arrival
Solution: Take your time. Don’t rush. Use a checklist to ensure all sections are filled out correctly. Applying via TDAC.info helps prevent submission errors with built-in validation.
Mistake #7: Using an Inactive or Misspelled Email Address
Your email is essential for receiving the confirmation and reference number for your TDAC. Many users enter an email with a typo or forget to check their spam folder.
Avoid this by:
- Entering your email address twice and confirming both fields match
- Using an email address you regularly check (preferably Gmail or Outlook)
- Adding [email protected] to your email contacts to prevent filtering
Note: If you don’t receive your TDAC confirmation email, check spam/junk folders first.
Mistake #8: Not Keeping a Copy of Your TDAC Confirmation
While your TDAC is linked digitally to your passport, it’s always safer to have a copy on hand.
Why it’s useful:
- Faster processing if there are system issues
- Acts as proof of submission
- Needed if immigration asks for verification
What to do:
- Save a PDF or screenshot of your TDAC confirmation
- Keep it in your email and/or your phone’s photo gallery
- Print a hard copy as backup if you prefer
Mistake #9: Ignoring Browser Compatibility or Tech Issues
Some travelers face glitches when using older browsers or unstable internet connections.
Tech tips:
- Use updated browsers like Chrome or Safari
- Avoid public Wi-Fi during submission
- Enable pop-ups and allow cookies temporarily while filling the form
If you encounter errors on the official site, TDAC.info is a user-friendly alternative optimized for mobile and desktop.
Mistake #10: Not Knowing You Can Reapply
Many travelers think they’re stuck if they make a mistake or forget to apply. But the system allows reapplication.
What you should know:
- You can submit a new TDAC form at any time
- There’s no penalty for multiple submissions
- Only your latest submission will be considered by immigration
Pro tip: If you spot a mistake after submitting, don’t panic—just head back to TDAC.info and reapply with the correct information.
How to Avoid All These Mistakes in One Go
Avoiding mistakes comes down to preparation, attention to detail, and using a reliable platform. Instead of navigating confusing systems alone, use a step-by-step form designed to guide you through every input.
By applying through TDAC.info, travelers benefit from:
- User-friendly, error-reducing interface
- Built-in field validation
- Secure data handling
- Quick confirmation via email
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip to Thailand, the TDAC can be a breeze when you know what to watch out for.
Thailand welcomes millions of visitors every year, and the new digital arrival process makes entry smoother than ever. By avoiding these common mistakes when submitting your TDAC online, you can ensure a faster, safer, and more efficient arrival experience.
Be smart, be prepared, and don’t let simple errors delay your tropical adventure. Ready to apply the right way? Visit TDAC.info and complete your Thailand Digital Arrival Card in minutes.
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