Travel

Latest Entry Requirements for Thailand: What You Need to Know

Thailand Entry Requirements

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted international travel, leading to the implementation of strict entry requirements worldwide. Thailand, known as the “Land of Smiles,” also introduced its own set of measures, including the Thailand Pass, to safeguard against the virus. However, as the world slowly resumes normalcy, Thailand has eased its restrictions and made important changes to its entry requirements. In this article, we will outline the latest updates for international travelers entering Thailand.

Passport Validity / Visas

Before planning your trip to Thailand, it is crucial to check the validity of your passport. International travel requires that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. If your passport expires within six months, you will not be allowed to enter Thailand.

There are various visas available for foreigners visiting Thailand, depending on their nationality, purpose of travel, and length of stay. Some visitors may qualify for the Visa Exemption Program, allowing them to stay in Thailand for up to 30 days without a visa. However, it is advised to check the country exemption list to determine the exact duration of stay.

Read more  Traveling to India during Covid-19: What You Should Know

Other options include the Tourist Visa and Special Tourist Visa (STV) for longer stays, as well as Non-Immigrant Visas for specific purposes such as business, employment, education, or retirement. It is recommended to consult your local Thai Embassy or Consulate to understand the requirements and application process for the visa that suits your needs.

Proof of Vaccine or Testing

Entry requirements to Thailand still depend on your vaccination status. If you are fully vaccinated, you are not required to provide proof of vaccination to Thai authorities before arrival. However, it is advisable to carry a copy of your vaccination certificate, either printed or digitally, in case it is requested.

For unvaccinated travelers, an RT-PCR or Professional Antigen Test (Pro-ATK) must be taken within 72 hours before boarding the flight to Thailand. The test result must be from a medical professional and cannot be a home self-test. Unvaccinated children traveling with unvaccinated parents will also need to undergo the same testing.

While proof of vaccination or negative test results are no longer required before entering Thailand, it is important to note that airlines and Thai Immigration may randomly check compliance with Covid prevention measures.

Insurance

Although it is no longer mandatory to provide proof of “Covid Insurance” to enter Thailand, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance. Good travel insurance not only covers medical emergencies related to Covid but also protects against accidents, personal injury, missed or delayed flights, damage to belongings, and lost luggage.

AXA Thailand is a reputable insurance provider trusted by Thai authorities and medical institutions. They offer policies designed for Thailand, with a helpline staffed by professionals who speak the local language and understand the country’s procedures. Purchasing travel insurance from AXA Thailand can be done quickly and easily online.

Read more  Experience the Beauty of Thailand with a Tourist Visa

Hotel and Proof of Address Updates

Previously, foreign visitors were required to provide proof of a hotel booking through an Arrival Card (TM6) before entering Thailand. However, this requirement has been temporarily removed. While you no longer need to show proof of a hotel reservation, you are still required to provide an address upon passing through Passport Control. This address can be a hotel, home, or the address of a friend.

SHA+ quarantine packages and RT-PCR tests upon arrival are no longer mandatory. Most hotels have removed their SHA+ quarantine packages, but you may still see the SHA+ badge displayed on some hotels. It is recommended to browse hotels on Agoda.com and make a reservation before your arrival for a hassle-free experience.

Thailand Pass

As of July 1st, 2022, the Thailand Pass is no longer required for foreign travelers entering Thailand. The system now serves as a platform for visitors to notify Thai authorities and medical facilities if they test positive for Covid during their stay. In the unlikely event that you need to access the Thailand Pass system while in Thailand, you can register and provide your personal details on the Thailand Pass registration page.

Flights

When it comes to international arrivals, travelers are not required to provide proof of flights before leaving their home country. While technically all visitors should have a return flight booked, you may not always be asked to present evidence of it. However, it is advisable to book an exit flight that can be changed, as it may be requested upon arrival in Thailand.

Read more  Can You Safely Travel in the Back of a Utility Vehicle (Ute)?

For domestic flights within Thailand, there are no longer any restrictions or sealed flights. Travelers are free to transit to a domestic flight immediately upon arrival at an international terminal. Although not always necessary, it is recommended to have your vaccination certificate or Covid test result on hand in case airline staff asks for it.

List of Approved COVID-19 Vaccines

As of December 1, the Thai Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has approved the following vaccines:

  1. Pfizer-BioNTech or Comirnaty
  2. Janssen or Janssen/Ad26.COV2.S
  3. AstraZeneca or Covishield
  4. Sinopharm or COVILO
  5. Moderna
  6. CoronaVac or Sinovac
  7. Covexin
  8. Sputnik V
  9. Medigen
  10. Sputnik Lite

How to Obtain Travel Insurance

Although Covid-19 insurance is no longer mandatory, it is still important to have comprehensive travel insurance during your stay in Thailand. To make the process easier, you can purchase your policy online from reputable insurance providers. AXA Thailand offers policies that cover all the necessary aspects and can be approved within minutes.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to provide proof of vaccination before entering Thailand?
A: Fully vaccinated travelers do not need to provide proof of vaccination before arrival. However, carrying a copy of your vaccination certificate is recommended.

Q: What tests do unvaccinated travelers need to take before entering Thailand?
A: Unvaccinated travelers must take an RT-PCR test or Professional Antigen Test (Pro-ATK) within 72 hours before their flight to Thailand.

Q: Is Covid insurance still required to enter Thailand?
A: No, Covid insurance is no longer required. However, it is still advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unforeseen events.

Read more  How to Stay Longer in Thailand: A Guide to the iBlog Tourist Visa

Q: Can I book a hotel upon arrival in Thailand?
A: While you no longer need to show proof of a hotel reservation, it is recommended to book a hotel in advance for a smoother experience.

Q: Is the Thailand Pass still required?
A: The Thailand Pass is no longer required for entry into Thailand. It now serves as a notification system for visitors who test positive for Covid during their stay.

Conclusion

As Thailand welcomes back international travelers, it has made significant changes to its entry requirements. While some measures, such as proof of vaccination and Covid insurance, are no longer mandatory, it is still important to prioritize the safety and well-being of oneself and others while traveling. Comprehensive travel insurance, valid visas, and adherence to Covid prevention measures are essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip to the Land of Smiles. For the latest information and updates, visit iBlog – your go-to source for travel-related news and insights.

Related Articles

Back to top button