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.
Sydney to Bankok
Melbourne to Bangkok
Brisbane to Bangkok
See all flights
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
5841 reviewsA beautiful ancient place. We couldn't buy tickets on trip.com because they only sell out a few days in advance. We finally decided to try buying them on site. We stood in line for 40 minutes, filled out a form with our passports, and bought our tickets. We walked through the palace in an hour, getting a real sense of the ancient past. A must-see!
Simon Cabaret Phuket
4.7/5
1298 reviewsI expected only pretty boys, but there were also some comedic ones, which made it fun. The staff were also very kind and even helped me find a taxi.
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
See all attractions
88185 booked
Hotel Recommendations in Thailand
Hotels in Bangkok
5 star
Very Good4884 Reviews
Siam Bangkok|2.01km from downtown
The lobby is beautifully decorated, and the rooms are spacious with a bathtub. However, those are the only two positives. The elevator has no display, and once you get to it, it's incredibly eerie. The lighting starts getting very dim from there, and the hallway is even scarier with its dark green walls and carpet. The room door is difficult to open; you need to insert the card, wait for a green light, and immediately pull it out to open the door. Otherwise, it instantly turns red and fails. We weren't told this and tried many times before a passerby helped us. The room itself is also dim, with no main light, just two bedside lamps, a tiny ceiling light above the dressing table, a desk lamp, and a floor lamp. The mirror faces the bed, which is quite unsettling. The bathroom light is a dull gray, like something out of a horror movie, and there's a white curtain in front of the bathtub… I understand the hotel is a bit old, but I hope they can improve the lighting. What's even more terrifying is that on the second night, around 1 AM, my friend was already asleep, and I was lying on my side playing with my phone. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a shadow pass outside the window. It definitely wasn't a bird; the shadow was not fast and quite large. I hadn't fully closed the curtains, leaving about half a meter open, and the room was on the 15th floor. This really scared me…From€ 26
Very Good1185 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.From€ 64
Very Good1162 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.From€ 44
Very Good2478 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.From€ 60
Great1483 Reviews
Siam Bangkok|3.59km from downtown
This is the most ceremonial hotel I've stayed at in Bangkok. There were welcome fruits, desserts, and little elephant toys. The room was very spacious, perfect for a family stay. It's also convenient for getting to the airport, and there's a 7-Eleven nearby, with Champion Cafe just a few minutes' walk away. Especially the staff member Boat, who was incredibly responsive to all our requests. My child loved the animal toys and would get a new one upon returning. The next day, when I mentioned wanting a surprise, he decorated the bed with fresh flowers, making it feel like a honeymoon.From€ 99
Business travel
Very Good1602 Reviews
Khaosan Road Bangkok|3.03km from downtown
Thank you for everything🩷 All the staff is so lovely and kind to us, which make our stay memorable. I wouldn’t expect either for such a surprise arrangement for our honeymoon. Really made our day after a total of 20 hours flight to Bangkok. The room is surprisingly clean and almost spotless despite the hotel seems a bit dated. Good job for the teams, and hope in the future the hotel can earn the extra star ⭐️ will definitely visit again!From€ 30
Very Good2365 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).From€ 44
Very Good1961 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.From€ 45
Great2004 Reviews
Silom/Sathon Bangkok|0.67km from downtown
The hotel lobby is beautiful, and the room facilities and service are also good. However, they require a deposit of 1000 baht per day. Taxis are convenient. There's a 24-hour Big C supermarket about a 5-minute walk away, and the M line subway is also very close, which takes you directly to Chatuchak Market. Chulalongkorn Night Market is a short walk away, but it's not very interesting. Getting to the Siam commercial area is a bit of a hassle; taxis get extremely stuck in traffic, and walking 2 kilometers under the blazing sun is a bit far. But Central Department Store is definitely worth a visit!From€ 47
Very Good825 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.From€ 13
Breakfast
Great2416 Reviews
Pratunam Market Bangkok|3.2km from downtown
Stayed for 4 nights in this hotel. Good value deal for the price. Although it’s situated inside a street and many alleys to walk to,they have a buggy service to suffice. It’s a 20 minute walk to Platinum Fashion Mall and main shopping district. Busy area and lots of walking. The breakfast and dinner buffet is good with Thai,local,Western choices. The rooftop pool has a good view by day and night but just a small pool. Have your pictures reserved on your first day since it’s a busy hotel and everyone wants to have a picture souvenir,which we were not able to have due to the busy sightseeing schedule. Our room had a nice view of the front view of the hotel. The pillows and bed is okay. They clean the room daily and give coffee and tea. The bathroom is rather small but still okay. They give free popcorn and apple juice at the lobby is a treat. The birthday surprise in the room was nice with free cake and drinks was to my delight. The service and people/staff were polite and kind. This is a family hotel that is value for the price. Not really a 4 star for me but a 3 star at it’s best.From€ 48
Very Good3033 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|7.78km from downtown
Very convenient location. There was a 7-11 and a bus stop in front of the hotel. The hotel also provided an hourly free shuttle service to the bts Phrakanong station. Amazing rooftop bar. Great breakfast. There was also a laundry facility on the first floor and if prefer there was also a laundromat with larger machines about 5 min walk away behind the hotel.From€ 32
Great930 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.From€ 77
Very Good655 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.From€ 33
Very Good1090 Reviews
Suvarnabhumi Airport Bangkok|12.64km from downtown
I tried to check in at 1 PM, but I wasn't allowed to. I had to wait another hour, so I finally checked in at 2 PM. The front desk staff were chatting loudly among themselves. When it was finally time to check in, they asked for my passport again, even though I had already given it to them at 1 PM. The air conditioning wasn't very cool during the day; it felt a bit warm even after setting it to 18 degrees Celsius.From€ 15
FAQs about Thailand Visa for Australians
-
Do Australians get a visa on arrival?
-
How much is the ETA for Thailand?
-
Can Australians apply for a Thailand visa online?
-
Do I need a visa if I am an Australian citizen?
Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.