Updated on 13 February, 2023, at 09.00 Hrs.
Thailand has reaffirmed its commitment to opening its doors to international tourists with a fully-reopen-to-tourism policy. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) wants to make it clear that all visitors are welcome, following the introduction of this policy on 1 October, 2022.
No Vaccination or Test Results Required
Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health, H.E. Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, states that international travelers arriving in Thailand are not required to show proof of vaccination. Additionally, foreign tourists are exempt from providing ATK or RT-PCR test results.
Extended Stay and Corresponding with Rules
As part of the full reopening to tourism, Thailand is also offering longer periods of stay for visitors. Until 31 March, 2023, tourists from countries/territories entitled to visa exemption can stay for 45 days (extended from 30 days), while those eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) can stay for 30 days (extended from 15 days).
However, it is essential to note that while Thailand is welcoming all visitors, some source markets may require incoming visitors, including their own nationals returning home, to have a negative PCR test result. To align with the rules of these countries, such as China, passengers from countries with RT-PCR testing requirements must have health insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment in Thailand.
Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters
With the ‘Visit Thailand Year 2023: Amazing New Chapters’ campaign, tourists from around the world are invited to experience the kingdom’s existing and new tourism experiences, products, and services.
Public Health Measures for Foreign Travellers
To ensure the safety of foreign travelers entering Thailand, several public health measures have been implemented:
- Proof of vaccination is no longer required.
- Travelers from listed countries who require negative RT-PCR test results before departing from Thailand must have health insurance covering at least US$10,000 for COVID-19 treatment, covering the duration of their stay plus an additional 7 days. Those with business arrangements, flight crews, and students may provide an official letter from the host or other forms of insurance to meet this requirement. The proof of insurance will be randomly checked by quarantine officers. If a traveler does not have proof of insurance, they will need to purchase health insurance before immigration.
- Holders of Thai passports and transit/transfer passengers are exempt from health insurance checks.
- Airlines must adhere to related regulations and ensure passengers comply with appropriate guidance, such as wearing masks at all times except during meals or emergency situations.
- Any passenger exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms upon arrival will be recommended to undergo a COVID-19 test.
For more information, travelers can contact the Department of Disease Control (DDC) Hotline 1442 or visit https://ddc.moph.go.th/index.php.
Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM)
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) outlining advice to airlines flying into Thailand regarding health insurance and other health-related recommendations. The NOTAM is advisory in nature and not compulsory for airlines. It is intended to facilitate entry and provide the best possible visitor experience. Airlines have the discretion to act accordingly for their passengers traveling to Thailand.
Effective Dates of Announcements
The Public Health Measures for Foreign Travelers Entering Thailand from the Department of Disease Control (DDC) and the Notice to Air Missions from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) are in effect from 10 January, 2023, until further notice. Once countries lift the requirement of RT-PCR testing before entry, health insurance will no longer be required automatically, according to the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH).