Thailand to Welcome Vaccinated Travelers in February

Thailand is set to relax entry rules for vaccinated travelers from all nations next month as concerns about the Omicron variant wane, officials announced on Thursday.

The nation's tourism-dependent economy suffered significantly from travel restrictions enacted in 2020 to curb COVID-19 spread. Despite easing measures last year, the influx of foreign tourists has remained low.

Fully vaccinated travelers can enter the country through the “Test and Go” program, requiring a PCR test upon arrival and a one-night stay at a pre-booked hotel while awaiting results. A second test and another hotel stay will be needed five days later, with visitors bearing the costs of both tests and accommodations.

Travelers are also required to download a tracking application.

An earlier version of the “Test and Go” program, which required a single PCR test, was launched in November as COVID-19 cases fell in Thailand and vaccination rates increased. However, it was put on hold in December due to concerns over the Omicron variant.

The planned revival of the program on February 1, now incorporating a second test, was confirmed on Thursday following a meeting of the government’s Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration led by Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha.

According to center spokesperson Taweesin Visanuyothin, the country stands to gain from both domestic and international visitors, as well as investors who can help boost the economy.

The center has also decided to relax COVID-19 prevention measures in 25 provinces that have faced stringent restrictions.

Prayuth mentioned on his Facebook page that these measures were implemented in response to a more favorable situation regarding the Omicron variant and to encourage economic recovery while ensuring health safety.

The government currently permits entry for visitors who undergo a quarantine of 7 to 10 days in designated hotels or participate in “sandbox” programs, such as those on the resort island of Phuket, where they can enjoy some freedom of movement during the 7-day quarantine.

On Thursday, Thailand reported 8,129 new COVID-19 cases and 19 fatalities, raising the total confirmed cases to 2,353,062 and the death toll to 21,987.