Thailand continues to implement travel regulations and COVID-19 restrictions to safeguard public health. Stay informed about the latest updates before planning your trip. In this article, we will discuss the current travel situation in Thailand and provide essential information to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Entry and Transit Regulations
If you wish to travel to Thailand, it is mandatory to obtain permission via the Royal Thai Government’s online platform. Keep yourself updated with the latest information on the websites of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Royal Thai Embassy London, Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, and the Ministry of Public Health.
For Thai residents who are currently outside Thailand, an extension to the compulsory return deadline will be granted. However, it is expected that you return to Thailand once the situation improves.
On Arrival Procedures
Upon arrival, certain categories of foreigners will undergo COVID-19 testing. This testing is conducted both at entry and during quarantine. Please refer to the “Entry” section for more details.
Quarantine Requirements
Most travelers, including British nationals coming from the UK, must complete a 10-day (11-night) quarantine at a State Quarantine or Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) facility. Travelers from countries with COVID-19 variants are required to undergo a 14-day (15-night) quarantine.
If you possess a valid vaccine certificate and are arriving from a country with no COVID-19 variant strains, you may be eligible for a 7-day quarantine. This exemption applies only if your vaccine has been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Ministry of Public Health of Thailand, and you received it at least 14 days before traveling. Remember to present your certificate to International Port Health Control upon arrival.
During your ASQ stay, you will be tested for COVID-19. If you test positive, you and your travel companions will be transferred to a hospital for isolation. The duration of hospitalization is 14 days, even if subsequent tests show a negative result. To be considered for release, you must provide two negative tests, conducted five days apart. If you still test positive after 14 days, further quarantine measures may be considered by the hospital.
For any assistance required during your ASQ stay, please reach out to the Embassy.
Internal Travel within Thailand
Domestic travel options within Thailand are available, subject to disease control measures. If you plan to take an internal flight in Thailand, you might be required to download an app or complete additional travel documentation. It is mandatory to wear a face mask and adhere to disease control measures when using public transport, including planes, trains, buses, and taxis. Starting from April 26, 2021, until further notice, wearing a mask is compulsory in all indoor and outdoor public spaces in Thailand. Failure to comply may result in fines.
COVID-Related Restrictions
Thailand has implemented an emergency decree to combat the spread of COVID-19. The decree prohibits entering high-risk areas, hoarding essential goods, attending public gatherings, and propagating false information.
To ensure your safety, the Thai government advises avoiding unnecessary travel and crowded places. Whenever available, scan the ‘Thai Chana’ QR code. Disease control measures vary at national and local levels, with each of Thailand’s 76 provinces assigned a color rating based on the number of COVID-19 cases. Restrictions within each province depend on the color rating and any additional local rules.
Before traveling, check with local authorities, the Thai government’s PR website, and their Facebook page for the latest updates on the situation at your destination.
Accommodation
Hotels and private rental accommodations are available throughout Thailand. However, some hotels may remain closed, so it is recommended that you contact accommodations directly while making your bookings. Upon arrival, most hotels will conduct a temperature check and ask you to provide information about your recent travel history and any COVID-19 symptoms you may be experiencing. Additional disease control measures might be in place, and some hotel services and facilities may be limited or unavailable.
For more travel advice and information, visit Ekilove, your go-to resource for all things travel-related. Stay safe and have a memorable trip to Thailand!
