Thailand Immigration has launched a new mobile application called THIM, short for the Thailand Immigration Management System. The app has created some confusion among foreign travelers, expats, and frequent visitors, especially around one key question: does THIM replace TDAC?
Based on the current Thai Immigration position, the answer is no.
THIM is a new Thai Immigration app, but it does not currently replace the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, or TDAC. Foreign nationals entering Thailand should still complete TDAC before arrival through the official Thai Immigration channel. Thai Immigration’s TDAC guide states that non-Thai nationals entering Thailand are required to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online before entry, and that arrival card information should be submitted within 3 days before arrival.
THIM may make the process easier, especially for repeat visitors. But it should be understood as a new digital tool, not a replacement for existing immigration requirements.
What Is THIM ?
THIM is designed to support Thailand’s move toward digital immigration services. The idea is practical: instead of entering the same immigration information every time you travel to Thailand, THIM allows travelers to create a profile, complete digital identity verification using passport information, and save key details for future trips.
On later visits, travelers may only need to update trip-specific information such as flight number, arrival date, return date, accommodation, or other travel details. This is especially useful for frequent visitors who enter and leave Thailand regularly.
THIM is also expected to support family and group applications, allowing one person to submit information for multiple travelers. That could help families, couples, business groups, and tour groups manage arrival information more easily.
What THIM Does Not Replace
The most important point is that THIM does not replace TDAC right now.
TDAC remains the digital arrival card requirement for foreign nationals entering Thailand. THIM and TDAC are connected, but they are not the same thing. TDAC is the required arrival card process. THIM is the broader app and platform that may help manage that process more easily.
So travelers should not assume that downloading THIM means they can skip TDAC. They cannot. TDAC is also not a visa. It does not grant permission to stay, authorize work, extend a visa, or replace immigration inspection at the border.
What May Come Next
THIM appears to be part of Thailand Immigration’s wider digital direction. Future services may include appointment booking, visa-related services, 90-day reporting, and other immigration functions.
But future features should not be treated as current replacements until Thai Immigration confirms them officially. For now, normal immigration procedures still apply.
What This Means for Foreign Travelers
THIM is a positive step toward a more digital immigration system in Thailand. It may make repeat travel smoother, reduce paperwork, and help modernize immigration services for tourists and long-stay foreigners.
But travelers need to be careful not to misunderstand what the app does today. A digital system can make the process easier. It does not make the process optional. In short, downloading the app does not automatically replace existing immigration procedures. It is a new tool, not a shortcut around the rules.
Before your next trip to Thailand, check whether you need a visa, complete your TDAC through the official channel, keep your passport and travel documents ready, and do not assume THIM replaces existing immigration rules.
If you are unsure whether TDAC, THIM, visa status, re-entry permission, work authorization, 90-day reporting, TM30, or long-term stay planning applies to your situation, review it before you travel or before your next reporting deadline.
SVBL helps foreign nationals, founders, executives, investors, and expat families understand Thailand’s immigration requirements and prepare correctly before problems arise.
For case-specific guidance, book a free consultation with us today.
