Do Australians Need a Visa for Thailand & How to Apply for TDAC?
As a captivating kingdom in the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand is a gem renowned for its vibrant culture, golden temples, and world-famous tropical beaches. To help you experience its many wonders, we’ve put together this essential guide to the Thailand visa. We’ll cover everything from necessary paperwork to insider tips, ensuring your application process is as seamless as your upcoming tropical getaway.
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Do Australians Need a Visa for Thailand?
aerial photography of body of water surrounded with mountains Via Unsplash (by Evan Krause)
Australians can now enter and stay in Thailand for 60 days without a visa through the Visa Exemption Scheme because of an agreement between the two countries. There is no set limit if you’re traveling by air, but you can only enter on a visa exemption stamp twice a year if you’re entering Thailand through a land or sea border.
Main Thailand Visa Types for Australian Citizens
a book on a table Via Unsplash (by Global Residence Index)
Visa-Free Entry (Exemption Scheme)
- Under a mutual agreement, Australian passport holders can enter Thailand for tourism without a visa and stay for up to 60 days.
- While there is no specific cap for arrivals by air, travelers entering via land or sea borders are limited to two visa-exempt entries per calendar year.
Tourist Visa (TR)
- For those planning a longer stay, a standard Tourist Visa can be obtained through the Thai Embassy in Canberra or the Consulate in Sydney.
- This visa grants an initial 60-day stay, which can be extended for an additional 30 days at the Bangkok immigration office, allowing for a total trip duration of 90 days.
Thailand Privilege Visa (Formerly Elite Visa)
- This is the premier option for Australians looking for long-term residency or frequent, hassle-free access to the country.
- The program offers residency for 5, 10, or 15 years, featuring significantly fewer eligibility hurdles than other long-term categories and a suite of exclusive VIP benefits.
Non-Immigrant Visas
Australians traveling for specific purposes beyond tourism can apply for various Non-Immigrant categories at Thai diplomatic missions in Australia:
- Non-Immigrant B: For individuals seeking employment or conducting business.
- Non-Immigrant O: For those visiting a Thai spouse or family members.
- Non-Immigrant ED: Designed for students enrolled in recognized Thai educational institutions.
- Retirement Visas (O, OA, and OX): Multiple options are available for retirees, with Type OA and OX offering extended stays for those who meet specific financial and health requirements.
What is Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
passport booklet on top of white paper Via Unsplash (by Nicole Geri)
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is an online form designed to replace paper arrival cards, providing convenience for travelers entering Thailand by any means. It is used to submit entry information and health declaration details approved by the Thai Ministry of Public Health prior to arrival. After completing the application, travelers will receive a QR code. Upon entry, this code must be presented to immigration officers to streamline the entry process and reduce physical contact at border checkpoints.
Who needs to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
All foreign nationals entering Thailand must complete the TDAC before arrival, with the following exceptions:
- Foreign nationals transiting through Thailand.
- Foreign nationals using a Border Pass.
When to complete it?
All foreign nationals must submit their digital arrival card information within 3 days prior to entering Thailand, including the date of arrival.
How to Complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
Step 1: Access the Portal: Enter the official website of Thailand Digital Arrival Card.
(Source: Official Website of the Immigration Bureau of Thailand)
Step 2: Select Service: Click on the "Arrival Card" option.
Step 3: Personal Details: Enter your personal information, including passport details, and click "Continue".
(Source: Official Website of the Immigration Bureau of Thailand)
Step 4: Travel & Stay: Input your travel-related and accommodation information, then click "Continue" again.
Step 5: Health Declaration: List the countries or regions you have resided in during the two weeks prior to your arrival for health declaration purposes. If any location you enter is on the Ministry of Public Health's high-risk list, the system will prompt you to complete a specific health declaration form.
Step 6: Add Travelers: Click "Add" to include information for additional travelers and repeat steps 1 through 4. If traveling alone, click "Next".
Step 7: Review: Carefully check your information. If any errors are found, click "Edit" to make corrections.
Step 8: Email Registration: Enter your email address to receive your Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC).
Step 9: Final Submission: Review the Terms and Conditions, tick the box to indicate your agreement, and click "Submit" to finalize the application.
Step 10: Retrieve Your Card: Download your Thailand Digital Arrival Card. You can also download or print a copy of the arrival card sent to your email inbox.
Top Attractions in Thailand
Simon Cabaret Phuket
4.7/5
1290 reviewsFun and happy experience. Good cabaret show with ladyboys. Costumes and dancing is beautiful. Well worth it and I recommend it.
Tiffany's Show Pattaya
4.6/5
1231 reviewsThe show was great, very lively, a non-stop song and dance performance, and the staff were very enthusiastic.
How to Change Information on the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
(Source: Official Website of the Immigration Bureau of Thailand)
- Access the Portal: Enter the official website of Thailand Digital Arrival Card.
- Select Update: Click on the "Update Arrival Card" option.
- Search Criteria: Enter the required details to find your record, including your TDAC number, passport number, date of birth, and nationality/citizenship.
- Execute Search: Click the "Search" button.
- Edit Details: Confirm the information that requires correction and make necessary edits.
- Review: Double-check your updated information for accuracy.
- Email Registration: Enter your email address to receive your updated Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC).
- Finalize Update: Review the Terms and Conditions, tick the box to indicate your agreement, and click "Submit" to update your application.
- Retrieve Your Card: Download your new Thailand Digital Arrival Card. You can also download or print a copy of the arrival card sent to your email inbox.
Important Notes for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card
- Language Requirement: All information must be completed in English.
- Efficient Input: For fields with dropdown menus, you can type the first three letters of the relevant information, and the system will automatically display matching options.
- Clarification of Status: The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is not an entry visa.
Non-Editable Personal Information
The following details cannot be modified once submitted:
- Full Name (as it appears in your passport)
- Passport Number
- Nationality/Citizenship
- Date of Birth
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87812 booked
Hotel Recommendations in Thailand
Hotels in Bangkok
5 star
Very Good4930 Reviews
Siam Bangkok|2.01km from downtown
The Twin Towers Hotel เดอะ ทวิน ทาวเวอร์ offers very good value for Bangkok. The hotel is definitely a little outdated, but the rooms are surprisingly spacious and comfortable for the price.
The swimming pool is a nice bonus and a good place to relax. There is also a gym, although it is quite basic and some of the equipment feels old and rusty.
The biggest weakness is the check-in process. Check-in is only available after 2 PM, which is understandable, but they also would not allow the registration procedures and documents to be completed before 2 PM. This means many guests start the entire process at the same time, making the reception unnecessarily slow and inefficient during peak check-in hours.
The room itself was spacious, although the toilet bowl in my room was constantly draining a small amount of water, so some maintenance would definitely help.
Overall, despite its age and a few operational issues, The Twin Towers Hotel is still a solid choice if you prioritize space, a swimming pool and good value for money over modern facilities. At around HKD 450 per night, it is difficult to complain too much.FromAU$ 45
Very Good1196 Reviews
Silom/Sathon Bangkok|0.28km from downtown
The hotel's location is pretty good. The staff provides excellent service, and the breakfast buffet is very generous. Downstairs, there are plenty of massage parlors and small restaurants, and a 7-Eleven right across the street. It's about a 7-8 minute walk to the BTS station, and you can even see the Pixel Building from the room. The only downside is that the room facilities are a bit old, but I can live with that.FromAU$ 99
Very Good1170 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|5.68km from downtown
The room was excellent – clean, comfortable, and spacious. The staff were incredibly friendly, especially the doorman/tuk-tuk driver, Ton. He was exceptionally polite! The entire hotel made for a very pleasant stay. The location was also great, easy to find, and in a quiet area with a 7-Eleven nearby. I'll definitely choose this hotel again next time I'm in Thailand.FromAU$ 72
Very Good2501 Reviews
Riverside Bangkok|2.99km from downtown
We had an amazing stay at this beautiful property. The location is perfect, right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, offering lovely views and a peaceful atmosphere. The hotel also provides a complimentary boat shuttle service to the nearest pier, making it incredibly convenient to explore IconSiam, WatArun, WatPho, Asiatique etc.
Hotel has an outstanding hospitality. Every member of the staff—from the bell attendants and reception team to the housekeeping staff, are warm, courteous, professional, and always eager to help.
We even got a complimentary upgrade from a Deluxe Premium Room to a Suite, which made our stay even more memorable. The suite was spacious, elegant, and very comfortable. Breakfast got a huge variety to offer.
Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and we would highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a luxurious stay with exceptional service in Bangkok. We would definitely love to return on our next visit. View from our room is attached.FromAU$ 81
Great1494 Reviews
Siam Bangkok|3.59km from downtown
The only issue with this hotel was the slow Wi-Fi. If you're staying here, you might need an unlimited data plan.
The entire hotel staff was incredibly proactive and attentive, and they could communicate in basic Chinese. We checked in around 3 or 4 AM, and all our check-in documents were already prepared for us, making the process very efficient. The lobby can help receive food deliveries and packages, and collection is also very meticulous and convenient.
The room space was ample. Although the facilities were visibly a bit dated, they were very well-maintained. There were quite a few mirrors, and when my friend expressed some concern about the room's decor, they promptly helped us adjust it. The bathroom had a slight odor, but it was within an acceptable range.
There's a 7-Eleven right downstairs from the hotel, and the location is very close to both the BTS and the Airport Rail Link, making it very convenient to get to the city center.FromAU$ 158
Business travel
Very Good1601 Reviews
Khaosan Road Bangkok|3.03km from downtown
Prince Palace Hotel Bangkok is a great option with a convenient location. We especially liked using the nearby ferry, which made getting around much easier and helped us avoid Bangkok traffic. The room was clean, and we were pleasantly surprised by a complimentary upgrade that gave us a bigger room and a larger bed, making our stay more comfortable. Breakfast was enjoyable and had good options, though the selection felt a bit repetitive each day while we were there.FromAU$ 46
Very Good2381 Reviews
Silom/Sathon Bangkok|0.82km from downtown
Environment: It's close to an elevated highway, so I expected it to be noisy, but it was actually very quiet. I slept soundly at night, which was a huge plus.
Facilities: Standard level, clean and hygienic. The hotel's soundproofing is also excellent.
Location: It's near Sathorn Pier and two BTS stations (about a 10-minute walk). Getting to IconSiam and Chinatown is very convenient. The Pixel Building is also within walking distance.
There are also many 7-Elevens and shops nearby (I recommend the 7-Eleven to the left of the hotel entrance, further down the road – it's bigger and has a wider selection).FromAU$ 61
Very Good1966 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|3.87km from downtown
The location is excellent, easily accessible on foot from Nana Station. The price is reasonable, but the service might reflect that.
There was hair in the refrigerator, which made me reluctant to chill my drinks. Overall, the cleaning was subpar.
The lighting was dim, and the hotel facilities were old, creating a somewhat eerie atmosphere. A bit scary, actually.
The pool is located on a mid-floor, surrounded by walls, so there's no view. There was a very deep pool, but a lifeguard (or attendant?) was present, which was reassuring. When I borrowed a towel, they warned me about the deep end, which was helpful.
Even though it was a Saturday, check-in was smooth with no queue.FromAU$ 71
Great2028 Reviews
Silom/Sathon Bangkok|0.67km from downtown
Great location, about 200 meters from the MRT. There's a mall across the street and several 24-hour stores. It's also a comfortable walking distance to Siam and the Chula Night Market. The hotel staff are all very friendly and professional, and the free minibar is refilled daily. The only minor issue is that the hairdryer in the bathroom is quite old-fashioned.FromAU$ 70
Very Good819 Reviews
Suvarnabhumi Airport Bangkok|12.89km from downtown
The hotel staff work very efficiently and everything is well organized. The service feels professional and smooth from check-in to check-out. There is also a convenience store available 24 hours a day, which makes it very easy to buy food, drinks, or anything you need at any time. It’s really convenient for guests who arrive late or get hungry at night. Overall, it was a comfortable and pleasant stay.FromAU$ 21
Breakfast
Great2414 Reviews
Pratunam Market Bangkok|3.2km from downtown
I had a very mixed experience staying at this hotel. I'll try to break it down point by point.
The first thing you notice upon entering the room is a strong, pungent smell of dampness and old carpet that lingers in the air and simply cannot be aired out. To make matters worse, when I tried to lie down, I discovered that the upholstery on the lower bunk (or the base of the mattress) was literally torn, with frayed edges sticking out — which hardly contributes to comfort or hygiene. If you add to this the widespread scratches on the furniture, chipped tiles, and a generally outdated ”Soviet-style” charm, you get the feeling that the hotel is stuck in the past. Everything looks very old and worn out.
However, as a counterbalance to all this, I must give huge credit to the hotel team. They are true professionals. The breakfasts here are genuinely delicious and varied, which was a very pleasant surprise. I would also like to specifically commend the staff — they are exceptionally well-trained and friendly, which is rare to find these days. Everyone greets you with a smile, makes eye contact, and is happy to assist with any request. You can really tell they have great service standards.
But there is one aspect that really upset me. Upstairs, near the pool, there is a small night café with a nice view. However, I spotted a cockroach right next to the serving trays where the food and utensils were laid out. This is completely unacceptable for any establishment that serves food.
I strongly urge the hotel management to pay close attention to the sanitation standards in the pool area and the night café. Delicious food and polite staff cannot compensate for hygiene violations.
In conclusion: This hotel definitely does not justify the price they ask for. At this price point, I expect cleanliness, fresh renovations, and a complete absence of insects — not having to tolerate bad smells and torn furniture. I give them a ”plus” for the staff's excellent work, but overall, I am quite disappointed.FromAU$ 69
Very Good3041 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|7.78km from downtown
First off, there's a major flaw with the hotel: it seems most rooms, except for corner ones, are connecting rooms. This results in terrible soundproofing. You can clearly hear if your neighbors speak even a little loudly. On the first night, I was woken up at 2 AM by the sounds of the couple next door. When I went to the front desk the next day to switch rooms, I was met with eye rolls and impatience. Then, the room change itself was a hassle with all sorts of procedures and time restrictions; I couldn't move to a new room until 2 PM, even though rooms were clearly available.
My second issue is with the bathroom. The shower has no door or curtain to prevent water from splashing out. This means every time you take a shower, the bathroom floor will be completely flooded. Your towel will also be soaking wet. The sink design is also a disaster; water splashes out every time you turn on the faucet.
My third and biggest issue is the absolutely, incredibly, exceptionally poor service. I specifically want to call out the young, slightly overweight female front desk staff with a ponytail. She gave me constant eye rolls and showed extreme impatience. I don't know what her problem was. When I was changing rooms, she was sighing and rolling her eyes, and she was giving me side-eye even when I was just checking in.FromAU$ 47
Great925 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|3.93km from downtown
Not bad at all. It's located right in the center of Bangkok, with a 7-Eleven and a pharmacy just outside, and plenty of food options nearby. The steak at the restaurant to the right of the lobby entrance is absolutely top-notch. Overall, it's pretty good.FromAU$ 114
Very Good665 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|3.77km from downtown
I booked this place for two nights. I saw other reviews saying the accommodation was clean, but for me, the bathroom was quite dirty, as if the housekeeper hadn't cleaned it at all. There were stain marks on the walls and the sink was also stained. However, the duvet and bedsheets were quite clean. On the second night, the housekeeper forgot to provide towels, so I called reception to request some. But after a long wait, no one brought them up, so my partner had to go down to get them himself. The towels for the second night also had a musty smell. The swimming pool and gym were pretty decent for the price. I booked a room with breakfast, and the breakfast was fine. The staff at the restaurant provided excellent service; they were very cheerful, especially a female staff member who took great care of us, and the male staff member who drove us to the main road was also very helpful. Overall, it was quite okay, but I have to deduct points for the cleanliness of the bathroom, as it seemed the housekeeper hadn't cleaned the walls at all.FromAU$ 42
Very Good1078 Reviews
Suvarnabhumi Airport Bangkok|12.64km from downtown
This was my first time staying here, and everything was excellent. One thing I especially want to praise is how clean and quiet the room was. I slept very comfortably. The room was spacious, and considering the price I paid, it was great value for money. There are several restaurants nearby, and a 7-Eleven is conveniently located right next door. The staff were friendly and always smiling. Even the housekeeping staff were very polite and kind to me.FromAU$ 24
FAQs about Thailand Visa for Australians
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