Thailand lifts all COVID-19 restrictions for foreign arrivals

First group of foreign tourists arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport during the first day of the country’s reopening campaign, part of the government’s plan to jump start the pandemic-hit tourism sector in Bangkok, Thailand November 1, 2021.  REUTERS FILE PHOTO

BANGKOK — From October 1, people entering Thailand were no longer be required to produce negative Covid-19 test results or proof of vaccination.
These relaxed entry measures are in line with the revocation of the emergency decree in force since the arrival of Covid-19 in Thailand in March 2020.

The emergency decree was extended repeatedly until the Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration decided to lift it at the end of September. The center was also dissolved last week.

The Public Health Ministry, meanwhile, has downgraded Covid-19 to a “communicable disease under surveillance” from a “severe communicable disease”.

People entering Thailand from October 1 will no longer be required to produce negative ATK or RT-PCR test results or proof of vaccination. However, those with Covid-like symptoms will be required to undergo testing.

Those who test positive but have mild or no symptoms will not be required to be isolated but are advised to wear a mask and maintain social distancing while in public places.

Foreigners will also be allowed to stay in the country for an extra 15 days. For instance, tourists using the visa-on-arrival option can stay 30 days instead of 15, while those arriving under visa exemption rules will get a 45-day stamp on their passports instead of 30 days. This rule is applicable until March 31, 2023.

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