Visitors who have received two doses of the vaccine and come from low-risk countries will be exempted from quarantine upon entry from November 1.
The announcement was confirmed by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha on national television on the evening of October 11. The head of government has assigned this work to the Ministry of Public Health and the Center for Handling the Covid-19 Situation (CCSA) to consider and proceed. According to Thaiger, the government has not yet announced this policy in writing, but it has been directed by the prime minister so approval will take place soon.
According to the plan, from the beginning of November, visitors who have received two doses of the vaccine, coming from 10 low-risk countries according to Thailand's ranking, will be allowed to enter without isolation. The list includes the UK, US, Singapore, China, Germany and 5 more countries that have not been announced. It is expected that the government will finalize the list of 10 countries after the meeting in mid-October. This list will be expanded from December 1.
Khaosan Road, which used to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand, is now empty of people. Photo: Pornprom Satrabhaya/Bangkok Post
Visitors to Thailand, in addition to having a vaccine passport, still need to have a negative PCR test before boarding. When they land, they need a second test. When they receive a negative result, they are allowed to travel freely anywhere in Thailand. While waiting for the results, visitors need to self-isolate at the accommodation facility. Citizens coming from countries not on the list still need to be isolated according to regulations (7-10 days), even if they have been vaccinated. Besides, Thailand has yet to announce whether there are any additional or reduced entry requirements.
The ban on the sale of alcohol in bars and restaurants can be lifted from December 1. Nightlife establishments in the country can be reopened after that time. The Prime Minister emphasized that governments at all levels need to take measures to prevent the spread of the disease, but also need to create conditions for people to rely on tourism for income, not to miss the next peak tourist season. Christmas and New Year).
According to the head of government, it is time for Thailand to be ready to face Covid-19 and live with it like other infectious diseases. This is similar to how humanity has learned to live with other diseases through treatment and vaccination. "Today, I want to announce the first step, small but important, to unequivocally begin the process of trying to revive our economy," Prayut Chan-o-cha said.
He also said the decision comes with some risks. It is almost certain that Thailand will temporarily increase cases when it eases restrictions. However, the government will monitor the situation carefully, and find ways to contain the epidemic. He doesn't think those who depend on tourism can afford to pass again if Thailand misses the next peak season.
