Thailand's high season,
one form before you fly
File the free TDAC in the 3 days before arrival, then let the five-star resorts take over.
This guide is for travelers heading to Thailand in the November–April high season, when the Andaman coast around Phuket and Krabi enjoys its calmest seas. One step to do before you fly: Thailand's Immigration Bureau states that all passengers must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), and that foreigners must submit it within the 3 days before their arrival date. The official site is free — there is no fee to file. Below: how to get the TDAC right, how to split a luxury trip between beach and city, and the five-star resorts leading this season.
What is the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
The TDAC is Thailand's online arrival card, filed through the Immigration Bureau's official site, tdac.immigration.go.th. The site's notice, issued under the Immigration Act B.E. 2522, says:
- All passengers must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card.
- Foreigners must submit their arrival card information 3 days in advance of their arrival date — so file it in the three days before you land, not weeks ahead.
- You can update a card you have already submitted if your plans change.
The official site states that no fees are required. Be wary of look-alike websites that charge to “process” your card.
What should I have ready to fill in the TDAC?
- Your passport details.
- Your flight details and arrival date.
- Your first address in Thailand — the hotel name and address from your booking.
Tip for multi-stop trips: enter the hotel where you will sleep on your first night. If your first night changes, use the official site's Update Arrival Card option.
Why is November to April the best time for Phuket and Krabi?
The Andaman coast's high season runs through the drier northeast-monsoon months, typically November to April, with calmer seas for island-hopping to Phang Nga Bay and the Phi Phi Islands. Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year are the busiest and priciest weeks, and many resorts set minimum stays and festive gala dinners, so book early for those dates.
Phuket, Krabi or Bangkok — how should I split the trip?
- Phuket — the widest choice of five-star resorts, from secluded west-coast bays to private-pool villas; best for a first beach stay with lots of dining.
- Krabi — limestone cliffs and quieter resorts, some reached only by boat; the most dramatic scenery on the coast.
- Bangkok — palace and riverside hotels along the Chao Phraya, rooftop dining and the Grand Palace. Two or three nights here bookends the beach well.
A classic split is 3 nights Bangkok + 4–5 nights Phuket or Krabi, with a short domestic flight in between. Your TDAC only needs your first night's address in Thailand.
Where this information comes from
We checked this official Thai government page on October 27, 2026. Please confirm before you travel:
- Immigration Bureau of Thailand — Thailand Digital Arrival Card (official site, no fees)
🏨 Five-star stays in Phuket, Krabi & Bangkok (live Agoda rates) (22)
Five-star only, ranked by nightly price. Live Agoda rates for 2 adults, taxes and fees included, checked 2026-10-26 — confirm the live rate on Agoda.
🌴 Where to base the trip
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❓ Frequently asked questions
Do I need the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
Yes. The Immigration Bureau's official site states that all passengers must complete the TDAC.
When should I submit the TDAC?
In the 3 days before your arrival date. The official site says foreigners must submit their arrival card information 3 days in advance of arrival.
Is the TDAC free?
Yes. The official site, tdac.immigration.go.th, states that no fees are required. Avoid websites that charge for it.
Can I change my TDAC after submitting it?
Yes. The official site has an Update Arrival Card option to change your details.
What is the best month to visit Phuket?
The high season runs roughly November to April, when the Andaman Sea is calmest. December to February is the most popular and priciest period.
Phuket or Krabi for a luxury beach trip?
Phuket for the widest choice of five-star resorts and dining; Krabi for dramatic limestone scenery and quieter, boat-access hideaways.
Some links are Agoda affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Hotel rates were checked on Agoda and change often. Arrival-card rules are summarized from the official Immigration Bureau site as of October 27, 2026 — please confirm before you travel.