Thailand will drop all testing requirements for vaccinated international arrivals starting May 1, and will introduce two new entry schemes for travelers.
Currently, arrivals have to take two tests in Thailand. One on the first day and another on the fifth day of their stay. But next month, that requirement will be scrapped for vaccinated travelers as Thailand changes its entry policies, making them easier to navigate with less rules.
At the moment, there are three different pathways to entry: two for vaccinated travelers, the Test-and-Go and Sandbox schemes, and one for those who are unvaccinated, the Alternative Quarantine scheme. But starting May 1, these schemes will be scrapped and replaced with two simplified entry programs with less administrative hurdles: one for vaccinated and one for unvaccinated arrivals. Rules vary depending on the type of entry scheme you've applied for.
If you're planning to visit Thailand, here's what you need to know about your options.
Thailand's new rules for vaccinated travelers
If you're fully vaccinated, you must show proof of vaccination (a booster isn't required for entry at this stage), and apply for a Thailand Pass prior to travel.
You must also take out an insurance policy with coverage no less than than US$10,000 (reduced from US$20,000).
Once you arrive in Thailand, you will be free to roam around as you please without any further restrictions.
Thailand's new rules for unvaccinated travelers
If you are unvaccinated or are not fully vaccinated, you're also required to register for a Thailand Pass and take out an insurance policy with coverage no less than US$10,000.
Additionally, you must pre-book and pay for a five-day hotel stay where you'll be required to quarantine and take a PCR test on day five. If the result is negative, you can leave the hotel and are free to travel around Thailand.
However, you do have the option of bypassing quarantine altogether if you can present proof of a negative PCR test within 72 hours of travel via the Thailand Pass system.
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Thailand continues to categorize provinces into dark red, red and orange zones based on their COVID-19 risk, with varied restrictions in place across each zone. Check the latest advice for the area you are traveling to before departure. Face masks are compulsory across Thailand and must be worn in indoor and outdoor public places and on public transport.
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