Thailand looks to slow and safe border reopening to international visitors

The Government of Thailand has today announced that its borders will reopen for international tourism while also advising that it will remain vigilant through the enforcement of strict public health guidelines during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Special tourist initiatives announced by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will support ongoing Thai Government COVID-19 measures, including 14-day quarantine and Certificate of Entry documents for visitor arrivals.

Having been one of the leading nations in controlling the virus within its own borders,

The Thai Government has adapting restrictions on its Special Tourist Visa (STV), which allows entry for tourists from any country or territory worldwide. This will see visitors issued with an initial 90-day visa with the potential for two extensions totalling 270 days.

Thailand’s tourist visa, issued to visitors wishing to entering the nation for a shorter period is valid for a single entry.

TAT Governor, Yuthasak Supasorn explained "we recommend that all potential visitors who want to enter Thailand contact the nearest Thai embassy or consulate-general first regarding all the necessary visa requirements in their respective countries as the situation continues to evolve.

“In addition to other requirements, the 14-day mandatory quarantine upon arrival remains in place and applies equally to both Thai nationals and foreign visitors."

TAT has created a variety of platforms and support mechanisms to facilitate ease of entry, while not compromising public safety to the Thai population at large. These include the collaboration with the Thai tourism industry partners on a series of tourism promotions and initiatives, including Amazing Thailand Plus, ASQ Paradise, and Happy DIY Set.

TAT also introduced the 'Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) certification in collaboration with the public and private sector partners to help build confidence among Thai and foreign tourists. The certification is key to ongoing efforts by Thai tourism operators to certify that an establishment meets the standards of hygiene and health safety for their products and services during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic as widespread vaccination efforts begin.