Thailand Eliminates Test and Quarantine Rules for Vaccinated Travelers

Beginning May 1, travelers to Thailand who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 will no longer be required to take tests or quarantine upon arrival, a move aimed at revitalizing the nation’s vital tourism sector.

Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha stated on April 22, "Many countries have already lifted their restrictions. As a tourism-dependent nation, this will significantly boost our economy during these challenging times."

According to the new regulations set by the Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration, unvaccinated travelers must still present a negative RT-PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to their arrival.

All travelers must register through the online 'Thailand Pass' system and show proof of health insurance that covers at least $10,000 for COVID-19-related expenses.

Currently, under the 'Test and Go' arrival program, even travelers who are fully vaccinated must undergo RT-PCR testing upon arrival and stay in a government-approved hotel for one night while awaiting results. Additionally, on the fifth day of their stay, they are required to perform a self-administered rapid antigen test.

On Friday, the Public Health Ministry reported 21,808 new confirmed COVID-19 cases and 128 additional deaths, bringing the total since the pandemic's onset in 2020 to 4,128,038 cases and 27,520 fatalities.

These official statistics are derived from RT-PCR tests, and the new cases do not account for 20,635 positive results from antigen tests, which would nearly double the reported new cases to 42,443. Additionally, many positive results from self-administered antigen tests might not have been communicated to the authorities.