Thailand is the latest in a growing list of tourist hotspots to simplify travel restrictions, as the world moves towards post-pandemic life. From as soon as 1 May, fully vaccinated travellers will no longer require an on-arrival PCR test and result-pending isolation. In addition, there will be no requirement for a rapid antigen test on day 5 of your visit.
Here’s everything you need to know about enjoying a swab-free trip to Thailand.
Travel To Thailand: The New Process
The new test-free process is set to kick off on 1 May 2022. Mandatory PCR testing after arrival and isolation while waiting for a negative test result is set to become a thing of the past, as is day 5 rapid antigen testing.
This represents an almost completely test and quarantine free travel experience for those fully vaccinated explorers set to visit Thailand. The cut restrictions are set to mark the end of one-night SHA Extra+ hotel bookings, seeing no compulsory testing will apply. This means you can skip the isolation period and proceed with your journey immediately after touching down.
Unvaccinated travellers? Thailand now also welcomes back unvaccinated travellers, however, a PCR test is required in this case to avoid 5 days of quaratine.
In addition, the minimum travel insurance for visitors is set to drop from $20,000 USD to $10,000 USD.
Tip: We recommend both Cover-More and Fast Cover travel insurance as they both offer covid specific travel insurance policies at an affordable price.
Help! I Have Pre-Paid For A PCR Test
If you have pre-paid for an on-arrival PCR test but will arrive in Thailand on or after 1st May 2022, we expect to see a full refund offered once the simplified process is made official by Thai authorities. For now, sit tight.
How To Apply For A Thailand Pass
Thailand Pass registrations for travellers entering under the new rules will be made available on 29th April 2022. If you have already received approval to enter on or after 1st May 2022, you will not need to reapply for a fresh Thailand Pass.
The current long-winded form, which currently requires a raft of details, will be simplified for those entering from 1st May 2022. The newly minted form will require details of:
- Passport details
- Proof of vaccination (with an approved vaccine at least 14 days before departure)
- Proof of insurance (for non-Thai travellers)
Thai authorities estimate a 3-7 working day turnaround for Thailand Pass approvals, although in most cases you won’t need to wait this long.
Once approved, you will receive your Thailand Pass with a QR code for scanning on arrival. An approved Thailand Pass is valid for a 15-day entry window, comprising your intended date of arrival, with seven days on either side.
Travellers can apply for a Thailand Pass here.
