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
1380 reviewsThe one hour show is nice . But is on you to take photo with those 'she' once the show is finish . They will gather outside to request you for photo shooting 'with tips' . and the tips requesting is around 1000bath . is depend on ur next trip if you consider worth it .
Tiffany's Show Pattaya
4.6/5
1220 reviewsThe Tiffany Show is a must-see for first-time visitors to Pattaya. It's a vibrant, colorful, and technically sophisticated performance that offers a glimpse into Thailand's renowned cabaret culture. If you approach it with the right expectations—not high art, but a glamorous show with grand costumes and a unique atmosphere—the experience will be positive. It's definitely worth a one-time visit, but you're unlikely to want to return, as the program remains virtually unchanged.
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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87197 booked
Hotel Recommendations in Thailand
Hotels in Bangkok
5 star
Very Good5030 Reviews
Siam Bangkok|2.01km from downtown
This is a very good hotel. The room is very spacious, and the price is relatively affordable. However, the showerhead is fixed, and shampoo isn't provided, so I had to buy some at the convenience store downstairs. It was also a bit inconvenient that there was no charger near the bed.From£ 22
Very Good1198 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|5.68km from downtown
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Great stay at Oakwood Studios Sukhumvit Bangkok!
Had a really pleasant stay here. The room was clean, spacious and comfortable, and everything was well maintained. The staff were friendly, welcoming and always happy to help whenever I needed anything.
The location is also quite convenient, with BTS Thong Lo nearby and a shuttle service available, making it easy to get around Bangkok. There are also plenty of restaurants, convenience stores and places to explore around the area.
The swimming pool was a nice bonus after a long day of exploring the city. Overall, a comfortable and relaxing stay with great service. Would definitely consider staying here again on my next trip to Bangkok! 🇹🇭✨From£ 45
Great1499 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.From£ 60
Very Good605 Reviews
Chidlom Bangkok|2.5km from downtown
The location is about a five-minute walk from Chit Lom station, and it's quite quiet at night. The decor is very retro and stylish. The rooftop bar isn't large, but it's pleasant to have a drink and enjoy the breeze. The only downside was that one of my phones couldn't access the Wi-Fi login page for some reason, so I had to rely on my data the whole time. Also, because it's so retro, the lighting is quite dim. If I were traveling alone, I probably wouldn't choose to stay here.From£ 68
Great2744 Reviews
Siam Bangkok|2.39km from downtown
I had a wonderful stay at Renaissance Bangkok Hotel. The location is excellent, with easy access to BTS Chidlom and nearby shopping malls. The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, and the housekeeping team did an excellent job throughout my stay.
The staff were warm, professional, and always willing to help. Check-in and check-out were smooth, and the service exceeded my expectations. The breakfast offered a wide variety of delicious options, and the hotel's facilities, including the gym and swimming pool, were well maintained.
Overall, it was a fantastic experience, and I would highly recommend Renaissance Bangkok Hotel to both business and leisure travelers. I look forward to staying here again on my next visit to Bangkok.From£ 65
Business travel
Very Good1616 Reviews
Khaosan Road Bangkok|3.03km from downtown
The room was very spacious.
Hygiene: Very clean.
Environment: The hotel is a bit old, but the room has been newly renovated.
Service: Since the three-bedroom suite wasn't available for extension, I rebooked this room. After checking out of the original room, we stored our luggage at the front desk and went out. When we returned, the front desk had already processed the check-in for the new room. As soon as we got to the room and put our luggage down, the staff delivered the luggage we had stored at the front desk.From£ 24
Very Good2395 Reviews
Silom/Sathon Bangkok|0.82km from downtown
The hotel service and standards are pretty average, nothing outstanding. Its location is decent, probably in an area that doesn't get too much traffic. It's about a ten-minute walk to the subway station, but taxis are readily available. The surrounding commercial area is a bit lacking, though there's a rather large 7-Eleven diagonally across the street. The daily room cleaning was excellent and deserves praise! However, for some reason, even with the AC on (which I couldn't seem to turn off), the duvet felt a bit damp. Turning the temperature down lower seemed to solve that issue. Overall, for the price point, it's a worthwhile stay and I'd consider returning.From£ 30
Very Good1983 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|3.87km from downtown
The hotel is located in the Sukhumvit area. The staff were very friendly and provided excellent service. During my first stay, the room was nice and well equipped with everything I needed, including large bottles of shampoo and body wash, a hair dryer, a kettle, tea and coffee, a wardrobe, and a small working area.
However, my experience during my second stay was not quite as good. There was a small hole in the door, which made me feel a little uncomfortable, although it was not possible to see through it from outside. The sink was also clogged. The staff were very helpful and immediately sent someone to fix it. When it could not be repaired, they kindly upgraded me to a family room.
Despite the issues with the room, I was very impressed with how the staff handled the situation and took care of me. The location is also convenient, with a 7-Eleven and several restaurants nearby. I would stay here again if I needed to attend a meeting in this area.
The only downside is that the surrounding area can feel a little unsafe or uncomfortable when walking alone at night.From£ 38
Great2074 Reviews
Silom/Sathon Bangkok|0.67km from downtown
The hotel was very clean, and the front desk staff were incredibly polite and helpful. I noticed a lot of Japanese guests staying there. The access is also great, so I'd definitely want to stay here again next time I visit and would recommend it to my friends.From£ 35
Very Good814 Reviews
Suvarnabhumi Airport Bangkok|12.89km from downtown
The hotel looks nice from the outside, and the staff were polite. However, the room felt a bit dated and could benefit from some maintenance and refurbishment. The pillow had a slight odor, and a few facilities in the room were showing signs of wear, such as the soap holder, bidet spray, and toilet seat.
The bathroom could also use more attention to detail, as I noticed some spider webs.
One thing to be aware of is that the hotel appears to be popular with China groups, and the lobby was often quite busy. At times, some guests were lying down in the lobby area, which made the atmosphere feel an uncomfortable.From£ 12
Breakfast
Great2420 Reviews
Pratunam Market Bangkok|3.2km from downtown
All the staff were very caring and lovely. I asked for an early check-in because I had to rush out for an errand and also got upgraded to a king-size bed. There was also a buggy service for transfers when going out.
Nong Mind and Nong Nam at the Traditional Thai clothing photo spot were also very attentive. Initially, it was fully booked, and I almost didn't get to wear the Thai outfit, but as soon as a slot became available, they called me right away. I was very impressed and will definitely return.From£ 41
Very Good3047 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.From£ 27
Great924 Reviews
Sukhumvit Bangkok|3.93km from downtown
The location is great, very lively around here, though traffic can be a nightmare. Lots of convenient food options nearby too. It's about a ten-minute walk to the subway station, and they even serve Chinese breakfast.From£ 64
Very Good679 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£ 25
Very Good1102 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£ 13
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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