Tourists will be required to provide proof of two vaccinations
[UPDATE, 10th January 2023]: The Thai government announced that there are no longer vaccination requirements for entering Thailand. However, if you are returning from Thailand to a country that requires a negative Covid test, you are still required to get travel insurance. More information here via Reuters.
Expecting a huge influx of tourists soon, the Thai government recently announced that it will be requiring travellers to Thailand to provide proof of two doses of vaccinations. These measures take effect Monday, 9th January 2023.
Here’s what is known so far.
Proof of two doses of vaccinations and travel insurance
Image credit: Grendelkhan
With the expectation of a huge influx of Chinese tourists, the Thai government announced that it will resume asking foreign visitors to provide proof of Covid vaccinations before entering the country. The new measures are as follows, according to a note sent out by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) to all airlines.
Travellers over the age of 18 must provide proof of two doses of Covid vaccination or a doctor’s note indicating that they have recovered from Covid within the last 180 days.
Travellers who are from countries with measures to prevent people infected with Covid from returning must get travel insurance that covers Covid treatment during their stay in Thailand.
If travellers are unable to provide these documents, then they will be tested once they arrive in Thailand.
If you have a Thai passport or Thai social security, then you will be exempt from these measures. Those who are in transit are also exempt.
Chinese tourists account for most of the foreign visitors to Thailand, at 11 million out of 40 million in 2019. The first flights from China to Thailand will land on 12th January.
Image credit: CVC กลางบางซื่อ
Thai Public Health Minister, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, told reporters that the measures are necessary because Thailand is a major travel destination. He stressed that the measures must be non-discriminatory.
New measures begin 9th January
These new Covid measures take effect 9th January 2023 and will last until 31st January 2023.
Although Thailand has gotten rid of its mask mandate, health officials encourage masking in high-traffic areas such as public transport.
Image credit: Vyacheslav Argenberg
The minister also mentioned that hospitals are preparing for the influx of new tourists, especially in provinces popular with tourists, such as Bangkok and Phuket.
Get vaccinated before visiting Thailand
Tourism plays a huge role in Thailand’s economy. The boost in tourists making their way to Thailand means that many Thais will be very happy. That is, as long as Covid does not rear its head.
If you’re planning on visiting Thailand, make sure you are vaccinated. Not only will it be required for entry, but it’ll also make sure you’re relatively safe as Thailand begins to take in international travellers.
Thailand promises to be great fun for tourists, but it’s important to stay safe too.
Other travel-related news in Thailand:
- Thailand Covid Emergency Decree lifted on 30th September
- Expats can now extend visas online in Thailand
- Thai e-Visa is now available in 38 cities
Cover image adapted from: Grendelkhan, CVC กลางบางซื่อ