THIM (Thailand Immigration Management) is a new mobile and web app from Thailand’s Immigration Bureau that lets foreign travellers submit their passport, travel and accommodation details before arriving, creating a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) in about three minutes.
It is currently in a trial phase and free to download on iOS and Android, with a full official launch set for August 2026.
What is the THIM app?
THIM stands for Thailand Immigration Management System, a dedicated web and mobile platform for processing foreign arrivals.
The goal is to cut congestion at airports and speed up screening for the roughly 30 million international tourists Thailand handles each year.
The Immigration Bureau describes its long-term vision as turning THIM into a “super app” for all foreigners in Thailand, not just a one-off arrival tool.
For now, THIM does one main job: it lets you complete your Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) from your phone before you land.
What the THIM app does
THIM’s headline feature is fast, paperless completion of your arrival card. Instead of filling in a slow web form, you submit everything from the app before you travel.
Key features at launch include:
- Passport scanning: You photograph your passport and the app reads and records the details automatically using AI-powered optical character recognition.
- e-KYC verification: An electronic identity check verifies your information against your passport data.
- Three-minute arrival card: The Bureau says completing entry details takes no more than three minutes.
- Group entry: You can enter details for up to 10 people at once — useful for families or tour groups.
- No QR code at the gate: Your data syncs directly with the Bureau’s system, so officers confirm your digital form when they scan your physical passport.
On repeat visits you only update a few fields, such as your flight number and where you’re staying.
The app currently works in English, Russian, Japanese and Chinese, with 15 more languages planned.
Do you still need the TDAC?
Yes — the arrival card itself is still mandatory, and THIM is simply a faster way to file it.
All non-Thai nationals entering by air, land or sea must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card, which replaced the old paper TM6 form.
The official TDAC portal is free to use, and the government warns travellers to ignore third-party sites that charge a fee.
THIM links into the same TDAC system, so you can choose how to file:
- Via the THIM app: Scan your passport, fill in travel and accommodation details, and submit before you fly.
- Via the TDAC website: Enter the same details manually at tdac.immigration.go.th — the method the Bureau says is slower.
Either way, you should complete your arrival card before departure rather than queuing to do it on landing.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC): What It Is and How to Fill It Out
How to use the THIM app
Using THIM takes a few minutes and is best done before you leave home.
- Download the app: Get THIM free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Scan your passport: Photograph the passport’s photo page and let the OCR fill in your details.
- Complete e-KYC: Confirm the verification step that matches your data to your passport.
- Add your trip details: Enter your flight number, arrival date and accommodation address in Thailand.
- Submit your TDAC: File the arrival card through the app before you fly.
At immigration, you won’t need to show a QR code; the officer simply scans your passport and your pre-filled details appear.
Because THIM is still in its trial phase, keep a backup: have your accommodation details handy and be ready to use the TDAC website if the app gives you trouble.
When does THIM launch, and what’s coming next?
THIM is live for download now as a pilot, with the Immigration Bureau setting a full official launch for August 2026.
A broader rollout of additional features is expected to follow from October 1, 2026.
Beyond arrival cards, the Bureau plans to build THIM into a one-stop platform for tourists, long-term residents and expats. Planned additions include:
- 90-day reporting: Filing the mandatory address report online instead of visiting an immigration office.
- Document and extension services: Requesting certificates and submitting documents electronically for officer review.
- Appointment booking: Scheduling in-person visits to reduce crowding at immigration offices.
- 24/7 tourist police hotline: Registered users can request help through the app around the clock.
Officials also stress data security, saying sensitive details like passport numbers are protected with end-to-end encryption and kept within Thailand.
If you’re planning a trip, you can compare flights to Bangkok, browse hotels in Bangkok or hotels in Phuket on Wego, then file your arrival card through THIM closer to departure.
You can also check your flight’s live status with the Wego flight tracker before heading to the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the THIM app free?
Yes. THIM is free to download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, and the linked TDAC system carries no fee. Avoid third-party sites that charge to file your arrival card.
Is THIM mandatory to enter Thailand?
No. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card is mandatory, but THIM is just one way to file it. You can still complete the TDAC on the official website if you prefer.
Do I need to show a QR code at immigration?
No. THIM syncs your data with the Immigration Bureau’s system, so the officer confirms your details when they scan your physical passport.
What languages does THIM support?
At launch it supports English, Russian, Japanese and Chinese. The Bureau plans to add at least 15 more languages.
Sources
- The Nation Thailand — Thailand prepares THIM app for foreign arrivals before August launch
- Biometric Update — Thailand modernizes immigration checks with THIM travel app
- Thailand Immigration Bureau — Official Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) Portal
- Bangkok Post — Immigration to be digitised with new app
- Khaosod English — Thailand launches THIM app to speed up immigration process
Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.
