Changing hotels after filing TDAC: what travellers should know

Overview

Changing Hotels After Filing TDAC: What Travellers Should Know Many visitors to Thailand wonder whether they can change their accommodation details after submitting their Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). While it's common for travel plans to shift, there are important factors to consider when updating your hotel information post-submission.

Understanding the TDAC Hotel Information Requirement

The Thailand Digital Arrival Card requires all visitors to provide details of their first night's accommodation in Thailand. This information helps immigration authorities maintain accurate records of foreign visitors during their stay.

The key points about hotel information in your TDAC:

• You must provide at least one valid accommodation address in Thailand
• This should be where you plan to stay on your first night
• The information helps authorities contact you if needed
• Incorrect information could cause delays at immigration

Can You Change Hotels After Submitting Your TDAC?

Yes, you can change your accommodation after filing your TDAC, but there are important considerations:

Before Arrival in Thailand

If your hotel changes before you arrive in Thailand, you have two options:

1. Submit a new TDAC application with your updated accommodation details (this requires completing the form again)

2. Keep your original TDAC but be prepared to provide your new hotel details to immigration officers upon arrival

After Arrival in Thailand

Once you've entered Thailand, you don't need to update your TDAC for hotel changes during your stay. However, hotels are required by Thai law to register all foreign guests with local authorities, so your new accommodations will handle this process when you check in.

Important Considerations When Changing Accommodation

While changing hotels after filing your TDAC is possible, keep these factors in mind:

Immigration Procedures: If your hotel information changes between submission and arrival, immigration officers may ask for your updated accommodation details. Always have this information readily available.

Multiple Submissions: Each TDAC submission generates a new QR code. If you submit a new application with updated hotel details, ensure you use the most recent QR code at immigration.

Accuracy Matters: While minor hotel changes are generally acceptable, providing completely inaccurate information could raise questions at immigration. Always ensure your submitted information represents your actual travel plans as closely as possible.

The Role of Hotel Registration in Thailand

Understanding Thailand's hotel registration system helps explain why the TDAC asks for accommodation details:

TM30 Requirement: All Thai hotels must file a TM30 form with local immigration within 24 hours of a foreign guest's arrival. This applies even if you change hotels during your stay.

Guest Responsibility: While hotels handle the TM30 filing, you may need to provide them with your passport and arrival card details. Some hotels keep these documents temporarily to complete the registration.

Practical Tips for Changing Hotels After TDAC Submission

Follow these practical suggestions if your accommodation plans change after filing your TDAC:

1. Document Your New Accommodation: Keep a copy of your new hotel booking confirmation (digital or paper) to show if requested at immigration.

2. Arrival Preparation: Have both your original TDAC QR code and new hotel details ready when you land in Thailand.

3. Communication: If your hotel change represents a significant deviation from your original itinerary (like switching cities), be prepared to briefly explain the change if asked.

4. Multiple Stops: If your itinerary includes multiple locations, listing your first night's hotel is sufficient for the TDAC - you don't need to list all accommodations.

1. Do I need to submit a new TDAC if I change hotels?

Not necessarily. You can submit a new application with updated details if you wish, but it's also acceptable to simply inform immigration of your new hotel upon arrival if asked.

2. Will changing hotels affect my immigration process?

Minor changes typically won't cause issues. Significant changes (like different cities) might prompt additional questions, so have your new hotel information ready.

3. What if I don't know my exact hotel when applying for the TDAC?

You must provide at least one confirmed accommodation. If your plans are uncertain, book a refundable option that you can change later if needed.

About Our Service

ApplyThaiCard.com is an independent service that assists travelers with their Thailand Digital Arrival Card applications. We charge $15 per traveler for our convenience service. We are not affiliated with the Thai government, and for official information or to apply directly, please visit the official TDAC portal.

Remember that we cannot guarantee approval of your application, as all decisions are made by Thai immigration authorities. Our service simply helps you complete and submit your application accurately and efficiently.

When changing hotels after filing your TDAC, the most important things are to have accurate information available and be prepared to show your new accommodation details if requested. While the process is generally flexible for minor changes, maintaining transparency with immigration authorities ensures the smoothest possible entry into Thailand.