THIM vs TDAC Thailand — Do You Need Both?

Thailand has just announced THIM — a new immigration app that’s generating a lot of questions among travellers. If you’ve seen it mentioned online and wondered whether it replaces the TDAC, or whether you now need to deal with two separate systems before your trip, here’s a clear answer.

First — What’s the TDAC Again?

The TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) has been mandatory since May 2025. It replaced the old paper TM6 form that used to be handed out on planes. You fill it in online before you fly — within 72 hours of arrival — and receive a QR code confirmation by email to show at immigration.

It’s free. It’s web-based. It works on any device. And it’s still required.

So What is THIM Exactly?

THIM stands for Thailand Immigration Management System. It’s a new mobile app developed by the Thai Immigration Bureau alongside Amazon Web Services. The idea is straightforward: instead of filling in your details from scratch every time you visit Thailand, you register once — using your passport and biometric data — and your profile is stored for future trips.

It’s faster for frequent travellers. It’s more streamlined. And it’s being positioned as Thailand’s future immigration ‘super app’ — eventually covering visa extensions, 90-day reporting for residents, and more.

Full public launch: 1 October 2026. Currently in national pilot phase.

Does THIM Replace the TDAC?

This is the question everyone is asking — and the answer is clear:

No. THIM does not currently replace the TDAC. Both systems exist alongside each other. The TDAC web portal remains the standard entry declaration for all foreign travellers arriving in Thailand.

Think of THIM as a smarter, app-based layer being built on top of the existing system. The TDAC is the foundation. THIM is the evolution. But right now, the foundation is still what you need.

THIM — Pros and Cons for Travellers

The pros:

  • One-time registration — no re-entering details on every trip
  • Faster processing at immigration — target of under 3 minutes
  • Will eventually include visa and residency services

The honest cons:

  • Requires a compatible smartphone with NFC — not everyone has one
  • Biometric data on a foreign government app — some travellers will decline on principle
  • Not fully launched yet — still in pilot phase until October 2026
  • First-time visitors and occasional travellers gain little advantage over the standard TDAC web form

Will the TDAC Web Portal Stay?

All signs point to yes — for the long term. Thailand receives over 30 million international visitors a year. The web-based TDAC portal is the most universally accessible option: no app required, no NFC needed, works on any device anywhere in the world. It would be logistically impossible — and economically counterproductive — to phase it out.

The two systems are designed to coexist, serving different traveller profiles.

What Should You Do Before Your Trip?

Simple. Whether THIM exists or not, your immediate checklist remains the same:

  • Complete your TDAC within 72 hours of your arrival in Thailand
  • Receive your QR code confirmation by email
  • Present it at Thai immigration on arrival

If you’d like someone to handle the TDAC for you — Standard or Emergency service available at thailandentry.com.

Two systems, one destination. Thailand is still waiting for you.