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Here’s What You Need To Know On Your Next Trip To Thailand

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Qistina Bumidin •  Jan 26, 2022

[UPDATED 5th May 2022]

Picturesque islands. ?️ Golden with swaying palms. Halal amazing Thai food on offer. ?️ Thailand has long been the go-to destination for those looking for a much-needed tropical break. However, there have been a lot of changes in their COVID-19 regulations, so we got you covered with an update of what you should take note of when you visit the Land of Smiles. ?

P.S. Here are some articles to check out for your future Thailand trip! 

Pre-Arrival Requirements

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There are two different sets of rules for vaccinated and unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers, which you should take note of. Do note that the Test & Go, Sandbox and other entry restrictions have all been dropped since May 1st.

For fully vaccinated travellers of 18 years and above, you'll need a valid passport for at least 6 months, and a free Thailand Pass at least 7 days before the intended departure date. You'll also need an insurance policy with coverage of no less than US$10,000. Remember to bring your certificate of Covid-19 vaccination for checking at the airport!

There are some exemptions and additional information in regards to the certificate. For travellers between the ages of 5 and 17 heading to Thailand unaccompanied, they must get vaccinated with at least 1 dose of an approved vaccine at least 14 days before travelling to Thailand. Those travelling with parents are exempt from this requirement. For travellers with a history of Covid-19 infection and who have received at least 1 dose of an approved vaccine post-infection, they must have a medical certificate of COVID-19 recovery.

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In addition to the documents fully vaccinated travellers must bring as mentioned above, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers (except the certificate of Covid-19 vaccination) must also have a proof of pre-payment for a 5-night quarantine stay at any of the government-approved hotels such as SHA Extra Plus (SHA++) hotels, or AQ Accommodations. You will also need proof of prepayment for 1 RT-PCR COVID-19 test.

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On-Arrival Requirements

Upon arrival, all travellers regardless of their vaccination status must undergo entry screening including a body temperature check. Those pre-arrival documents you have prepared must be presented to the Immigration or Health Control officers to allow entry to Thailand.

From May 1st 2022, quarantine-free entry to Thailand for fully vaccinated travellers will be made available to all nationalities! ? You'll also be free to go anywhere in the kingdom!

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As mentioned earlier, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers must undergo a 5-day quarantine at any of the government-approved hotels or other accommodations. The trip to the prebooked accommodation must be by a prearranged vehicle on a sealed route within a travelling time of no longer than 5 hours. Afterwards, you must undergo another RT-PCR test on either Day 4 or 5. Travellers under the age of 5 and travelling with their parents who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated can undergo the quarantine together and must take a saliva test.

You are, however, exempted from the rule, should you be able to upload proof of a negative RT-PCR test within 72 hours of your departure via the Thailand Pass system. The quarantine exemption also extends to travellers under 6 years of age travelling with parents. You can then be allowed entry and are also free to go anywhere around Thailand ?

What Are The New Regulations Tourists Must Follow While In Thailand?

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While in Thailand, all travellers are advised to strictly follow health and safety standards. Travellers who are experiencing COVID-like symptoms should get tested. If you've been tested positive, you must get the appropriate medical treatment.

The Thai government announced that in April, Thailand will collect a 300 baht entrance ($12) fee to develop attractions and cover accident insurance for foreigners unable to pay costs for themselves. It was to be added to the cost of airline tickets as well. However, the government has decided to push back the entrance fee for now to an indefinite date. We will update as more information is being released! ?

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After 3-and-a-half years since its closure in 2018, Thailand’s most iconic beach Maya Bay in Krabi Province reopens! ? Made popular by the 2000 box office hit ‘The Beach’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Maya Bay attracts as many as 6000 people a day! However, intensive tourism had adversely affected the ecosystem and the surrounding natural environment, such as the death of coral reefs.

Visitors now will have to apply in advance and numbers will be capped at 4,125 visits per day. Tourist numbers cannot exceed 375 people at one time. All swimming activities are also prohibited for now. Additionally, boats will be docked at a safe distance to ensure no damage is done to the underwater corals. This has begun on Jan 1 this year. 

We will definitely update you if there’s more information available to make your trip fun and most importantly, safe! Get your luggage all packed now! ?