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
The Grand Palace
4.4/5
5842 reviewsWe always think that taking our parents on trips is about showing them how different the world is. But when we actually hold their hands and embark on the journey, we realize that the most satisfying part is finally seeing a different side of them. At home, they're always busy with the daily grind, used to giving us the best, often forgetting to consider their own feelings. But when they stand on unfamiliar streets, facing sights they've never seen before, their eyes sparkle with childlike curiosity. They laugh happily at trying a new snack, hold our hands tightly when lost, and show a relaxed and contented look we've never seen before under the sunset. At that moment, they are no longer the omnipotent superheroes, but vibrant, real, even somewhat endearing and clumsy travel companions. This process of rediscovering our parents is more worthwhile than any magnificent scenery.
Simon Cabaret Phuket
4.7/5
1321 reviewsExcellent service! Communication was fantastic from start to finish, and the whole process was incredibly easy. Highly recommend!
Tiffany's Show Pattaya
4.6/5
1262 reviewsThe show was worth seeing. The hour flew by. Beauty is always captivating, and unusual beauty even more so. The songs, sets, costumes, and soloists changed, but it was all captivating. I admire the work of these artists. Filming the show itself is prohibited.
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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88452 booked
Hotel Recommendations in Thailand
Hotels in Bangkok
5 star
Very Good4668 Reviews
Siam Bangkok|2.01km from downtown
This was my second stay at Twin Towers Hotel in Bangkok, and I was just as impressed as the first time. The hotel is large, well-maintained, and very clean, providing a comfortable and pleasant environment throughout my stay. Overall, Twin Towers Hotel offers great value for money, a convenient location, excellent facilities, and outstanding service. I would definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Bangkok. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐FromRUB 1,909
Very Good1116 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|5.68km from downtown
I had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The location was excellent, making it easy to explore and enjoy the surroundings. My room was spotless and comfortable, and I especially appreciated how clean and well‑maintained the bathroom was. Everything felt fresh and welcoming, which made my stay even more enjoyable. Overall, it was a great experience, and I would happily recommend this hotel to others.FromRUB 3,466
Great1446 Reviews
Siam Bangkok|3.59km from downtown
I absolutely adore this hotel!!! It truly lives up to its reputation as a seasoned five-star establishment. All the staff are incredibly warm and friendly, treating you like family. It's not a fake, professional smile; they genuinely make you feel at home, while still maintaining a polite distance so guests can enjoy their private time. The hotel staff alone made me fall in love with Bangkok! The facilities, though a bit aged, are impeccably maintained. It’s spotless and hygienic; my room was cleaned daily, and the bathtub was scrubbed every day. A subtle, pleasant scent wafts from the hotel onto the main street outside. Being a partner hotel with multiple airlines, you often see cabin crew from various countries checking in.
Every morning, the breakfast offerings change, providing a super rich and delicious spread. The saltwater pool on the 6th floor has both shallow and deep sections, and the water is continuously refreshed, making it crystal clear. They even provide various swimming floats and kickboards for guests. The gym is well-equipped, with views overlooking the pool. The small garden on the first floor is perfect for photos; I wish I could live here permanently! I've had the chance to stay at several five-star hotels in Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket, and this one is by far the best!!
Location-wise: You can take the Airport Rail Link (ARL) directly from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the hotel. The BTS Green Line also takes you straight to the Siam shopping district and Chatuchak Weekend Market. There are two 7-Eleven stores nearby, and across the street is the Factory Coffee shop. The street food stalls by the railway are incredibly delicious! Staying here is truly super convenient!FromRUB 6,273
Very Good596 Reviews
Chidlom Bangkok|2.5km from downtown
I felt like I was being treated differently. Aside from the young lady who checked me in, everyone else, especially another staff member, had a really bad attitude. It seemed like the hotel caters mostly to white guests, judging by its British decor. They only emptied the trash in my room, no actual cleaning. I brought my own towel, but used one of the hotel's to dry my hair. When I asked for a replacement, I got an old, dirty-looking one that clearly showed its age and couldn't be washed clean. The one initially provided when I checked in was brand new and good quality. I even took comparison photos. If they don't want to host Chinese guests, they shouldn't accept bookings. There's no need for this kind of behavior. I would have been fine if all the towels were old and dirty from the start, but not for them to replace a good one with a noticeably worse one.FromRUB 9,511
Great2784 Reviews
Siam Bangkok|2.39km from downtown
I've stayed at this hotel many times. The location is incredibly convenient, close to the BTS Skytrain and shops, and right next to the Erawan Shrine. The pool and gym areas are spacious, and there's a great variety of breakfast options. The rooms are well-equipped, quite large, and comfortable. I'd definitely book here again for my next trip.FromRUB 9,125
Business travel
Very Good1569 Reviews
Khaosan Road Bangkok|3.03km from downtown
This hotel is quite large, spread across several buildings: A, B, C, and D. I booked a room with a living area, and it was spacious – the bedroom alone was bigger than rooms in some other hotels. Overall, the room's facilities felt a bit dated, with dark solid wood furniture. The only inconvenience was the power outlets; the three-prong kind didn't work for my laptop charger, though my phone charger was fine. The hotel pool is on the 11th floor, next to a bar. Breakfast was extensive, with a wide variety of dishes. I stayed one night and wasn't even asked for a deposit.FromRUB 2,511
Very Good2348 Reviews
Silom/Sathon Bangkok|0.82km from downtown
Except for the good check-in service, the location of the hotel is fine if you like tranquil accommodation in a hustle city. It’s convenient to take bus or online hailing services to get to your destination from this hotel. The gym is good enough for cardio training but heavy weighting. A minor thing needed to be improved is you have to be patient to wait room service for a short period of time. All in all, it’s still worth spending to this safe place for a vocation.FromRUB 2,773
Very Good1906 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|3.87km from downtown
Upon checkin the staff advised me that I would receive a free room upgrade which was nice. The room was clean and in a good location.
For people that don’t like to walk just note the rooms in the sky wing are a decent distance from the hotel lobby. The rooms in the square wing are a short walk.FromRUB 3,682
Great1967 Reviews
Silom/Sathon Bangkok|0.67km from downtown
It’s my 5th time staying at this hotel, and overall it has always been a good experience. The staff are helpful, and housekeeping is especially friendly and accommodating. However, sometimes they assign lower-floor rooms with poor views. This time, we were first given a room facing the car park, with plants covering the window, which made it feel like staying in a cave. It didn’t seem like it was due to lack of availability, as another room was later given to us. Thankfully, they were kind enough to let us change rooms and moved us to the 7th floor with a slight roadside view, which was much better. The only downside of this hotel is really the room views.FromRUB 3,432
Good840 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.FromRUB 1,114
Breakfast
Great2457 Reviews
Pratunam Market Bangkok|3.2km from downtown
Location was great, and we especially enjoyed the complimentary photoshoot. Som and Miles were very accommodating and attentive to our requests, which made our stay even more pleasant. The food was also great and exceeded our expectations.
We also truly appreciated the effort the team put into making my mom's birthday special. They thoughtfully prepared a surprise setup in the room as requested, which was a wonderful touch and made the celebration even more memorable.
The room was spacious and comfortable. One suggestion for improvement would be to make the air conditioning colder, as the room could get a bit warm at times.
Overall, we had a wonderful stay and would highly recommend this place to others.FromRUB 4,182
Very Good3029 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|7.78km from downtown
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**Another wonderful stay: Consistency at its best!**
I ended up extending my time here for another 2 nights, and I am so glad I did. Just like my previous experience, the service across the board was absolutely outstanding.
From the front door to reception, housekeeping, and the breakfast team, everyone continues to go above and beyond to make guests feel welcome. The consistency in their excellent service makes this hotel a top choice.
Highly recommended and will definitely keep coming back!FromRUB 2,864
Great920 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|3.93km from downtown
Mercure is my families most favorite hotel. We’ve been there roughly 10 times. It is our go to spot. This time around we were shocked that one of the employees was very rude. Her name was KATE! She gave me an extremely hard time at checkout I was a few minutes late and had my two little children with me and she felt the need to remind me 8 times while I was checking out. In the future I will definitely deal with a different person and she almost had me choose another hotel on our way back. Horrible customer service by KATE! I will be contacting Mercure headquarters being that I have stayed at 23 of their locations. Other than that our stay was amazing.FromRUB 5,636
Very Good646 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|3.77km from downtown
I arrived in Bangkok early in the morning and was able to drop off my luggage at the hotel, which gave me the freedom to enjoy sightseeing. The front desk staff were very polite and always greeted me with a smile. The room was also very clean. The housekeeping staff were equally friendly and always had a smile and a greeting for me. They even offer a cart service to take you to the main street. The hotel is conveniently located near the bustling downtown area, but set back enough from the main road to ensure a peaceful stay.FromRUB 2,364
Very Good1043 Reviews
Suvarnabhumi Airport Bangkok|12.64km from downtown
The service was great, and the room was spacious. It's only a five-minute walk from the Lat Phrao 101 station on the yellow line. You can also take a 24 baht river boat from near the hotel to Nana. There are also bus options. Although it's not in the city center, the transportation is still convenient. There's a 7-Eleven right outside the hotel.FromRUB 1,295
FAQs about Thailand Visa for Australians
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Do Australians get a visa on arrival?
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How much is the ETA for Thailand?
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Can Australians apply for a Thailand visa online?
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Do I need a visa if I am an Australian citizen?
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