Bahrainis told to register online before travelling to Thailand

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s embassy in Bangkok is urging its citizens to register through Thailand’s new digital arrival system before boarding a flight.

From 1 May, entry into the country will depend on filling out the TDAC, or Thailand Digital Arrival Card, no later than three days before arrival.

No registration means no entry. Bahraini travellers must upload their details through the online system and complete a separate registration on the Thai government’s traveller portal.

The form demands everything from passport numbers and home addresses to the purpose of travel and where they plan to stay.

Thai police have confirmed that every foreigner must fill in the TDAC before setting foot on Thai soil. It is not a visa and does not replace one. It is an added step, a digital log of who is coming in and when.

Anyone planning to stay longer than 90 days must report in writing to immigration at the airport or their local police station. And every three months, those details must be updated. No work is allowed without the proper permit.

Thailand is not alone in tightening entry rules.

System

Malaysia has rolled out its own system, MDAC, which must be completed three days or at most 48 hours ahead of time. Singapore has taken a similar line, asking travellers to submit the SGAC digital card and E-pass no less than three days before arrival.

Travel in this part of the world, at least for now, is no longer as simple as showing up with a suitcase and a grin.