If you’re planning to travel to Thailand during the Covid-19 pandemic, here’s what you’ll need to know and what to expect. As of August 10, 2021, Thailand had documented over 6,500 deaths and 796,000 cases of COVID-19. The country is currently seeing its worst wave since the outbreak began. Most passengers must stay in an Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) facility for 14 days.
On July 1, however, the island of Phuket reopened to vaccinated foreign guests without the need for quarantine. On July 15, the country started a similar scheme called “Samui Plus” on the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, and Koh Tao.
Islands that are picture-perfect. Golden sands and waving palm trees. Temples with ornate carvings and verdant trees. Thailand has always been the go-to spot for those looking for a low-key, easy-on-the-eye tropical getaway.
Who is Eligible to Travel to Thailand in 2021?
Passport holders from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia are exempt from obtaining a visa when visiting Thailand for tourism purposes and are allowed to stay in Thailand for up to 45 days per visit. They are, nevertheless, needed to get a Certificate of Entry.
Tourists from non-visa-exempt countries can apply for a Special Tourist Visa (STV), which is valid for 90 days and can be renewed twice. They can obtain An STV from a Thai consulate or embassy in their home country. All travellers who have received a Certificate of Entry must download and register for the ThailandPlus App. They must display a QR code upon arrival in Thailand, for verification by Thai authorities.
What are the Restrictions?
All tourists must show documentation of an insurance policy that covers Covid-19 therapy up to $100,000 in costs, as well as a negative PCR test is done within 72 hours of departure. On arrival, all tourists (excluding fully vaccinated travellers going to Phuket or Koh Samui) must take another PCR test, following which they must quarantine at government-approved quarantine facilities or Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) facilities. This can include high-end hotels, some of which offer quarantine services.
On July 1, Thailand allows entry for travellers to Phuket without quarantine with vaccination from low- and medium-risk destinations. Visitors must remain for 14 days in a hotel with SHA+ accreditation on the island before travelling elsewhere in the country. Visitors to Phuket must apply for a Certificate of Entry. They must also show documentation of insurance coverage that covers Covid-19 treatment up to $100,000. A negative PCR test within 72 hours of departure, and a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19 with vaccination at least 14 days before their departure date.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s website has a complete list of standards for Phuket, as well as recommendations for the reopening. On July 15, 2021, the country started a similar scheme called “Samui Plus” on the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, and Koh Tao.
Travellers who have been fully vaccinated can fly into Koh Samui. They must stay in an ASQ hotel on the island for the first three days and cannot leave the premises. They can travel between the three islands after seven days and can travel around the country after the 14 days are up. On the Thai Tourism Authority’s website, you may learn more about admission criteria and restrictions.
What is the present COVID situation in Thailand?
Due to tight quarantine on arrival restrictions, Thailand has recorded few locally transmitted Covid-19 infections for months. However, the country is still fighting its third and most serious wave of infections, which began in early April with outbreak clusters in major Bangkok nightclubs.
The country is currently reporting around 10,000 new cases each day on average. Moreover, the majority of cases occurring in Bangkok and its neighbouring districts.
On June 7, a national vaccination effort was launched. By the end of the year, Thailand aims to vaccinate 70% of its people.
What can a Visitor expect in Thailand now?
13 high-risk provinces have restrictions, including a curfew, until at least August 2. Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Chon Buri, Chachoengsao, Ayutthaya, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Pathom, Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala are among the cities that have been affected.
Only essential shops and services can operate in certain neighbourhoods, and restaurants are offering take-out only. Interprovincial travel is currently under restrictions. Domestic flights to and from high-risk zones have been cancelled, with a few exceptions. There are restrictions in travel by bus and train with carriers stopping or reducing journeys.
Domestic passengers, with the exception of those who have a foreign flight, cannot enter Phuket from August 3 to 16. This action was an effort to stem the spread of Covid-19.
The majority of the country’s entertainment venues, including bars and nightclubs, are not operating now.
In public, masks are mandatory, both indoors and out, and temperature checks are commonplace. Fines are applicable to those who do not wear masks.
Prior to the recent limitations, areas within driving distance of Bangkok were able to benefit from domestic tourists. However, other generally popular locations such as Phuket and Koh Samui were not so fortunate.
Your Take!
If you are seriously planning to visit Thailand for your vacation, we can help you with that. As one of the premium immigration firms in Thailand, we facilitate the smooth entry of international visitors to Thailand. Apart from Tourist Visa, we also cater to all types of immigration requirements of travellers for Thailand. Mail us at [email protected] to book your consultation session.
