Siam Legal International, a full-service law firm in Thailand, has issued an updated comprehensive guidance on the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system as immigration authorities continue to implement stricter entry protocols throughout 2026. The advisory addresses widespread confusion among foreign nationals regarding the mandatory pre-arrival registration requirement that became effective in May 2025.
"The implementation of the TDAC has created considerable uncertainty among travelers who are accustomed to completing arrival cards at the border," said Rex Baay, Managing Partner at Siam Legal International. "We are seeing increased instances of travelers facing delays or complications at immigration checkpoints due to incomplete or incorrect TDAC submissions, particularly as Thai authorities have intensified their scrutiny of entry documentation in 2026."
The digital arrival card must be completed within 72 hours before arrival in Thailand through the official Immigration Bureau website. Required information includes passport details, travel itinerary, accommodation addresses, and health declarations. Travelers receive a QR code upon successful submission, which immigration officers may request during the entry process.
A critical concern identified by the firm involves third-party websites charging fees for TDAC submission services. The official TDAC system requires no payment, and travelers should only use the government's designated portal to avoid potential fraud or data security risks. Additionally, completing the TDAC does not guarantee entry approval or replace visa requirements.
Thailand's immigration authorities have significantly increased their verification procedures in 2026, examining visa status, travel history, and stated purposes of entry with greater scrutiny than in previous years. Inconsistencies between TDAC declarations and actual travel circumstances can result in extended questioning, entry delays, or border refusal.
Recent enforcement trends indicate that short-term visitors and frequent travelers are subject to increased scrutiny, particularly those entering Thailand on visa exemption stamps or short-term tourist visas. Immigration authorities are paying closer attention to repeat entry patterns, duration of stays, and whether stated travel purposes align with actual behavior.
While holders of long-term visas, including retirement, education, and business visas, remain subject to standard compliance checks, enforcement efforts are primarily aimed at identifying misuse of the visa-free scheme. Information submitted through the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) may be reviewed alongside travel history and visa status as part of a routine immigration assessment, rather than as a targeted measure against compliant long-term residents.
"Accurate TDAC submission has become a critical component of successful entry into Thailand," noted Baay. "Even minor discrepancies in accommodation details or travel dates can trigger additional scrutiny that may complicate what should be a straightforward arrival process."
Siam Legal International has observed an increase in inquiries from travelers seeking assistance with pre-arrival compliance assessments and document review. The firm provides guidance on proper TDAC completion, visa eligibility confirmation, and overall entry preparation strategies.
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Established over 22 years ago, Siam Legal International maintains offices throughout Thailand, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Phuket. The firm's practice areas encompass immigration law, corporate services, property transactions, family law, and regulatory compliance. Recent organizational developments include strategic leadership appointments and infrastructure investments to enhance client service delivery across all practice areas.
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For more information about Siam Legal International, contact the company here:
Siam Legal International
Rex Baay
+662 254 8900
info@siam-legal.com
18th Floor, Unit 1806 Two Pacific Place,
142 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Toei,
Bangkok 10110, Thailand
