Thailand opens its borders for foreign travellers after a long break because of COVID-19 pandemic.
The Asian country has opened its borders for travellers from all countries just in time for the holiday season.
Thailand has allowed visitors to apply for the Tourist Visa (TR) or Special Tourist Visa (STV) with a mandatory 14-day quarantine at government approved quarantine facilities.
The TR Visa is for the travellers looking for a short-term stay while STV is for those planning a longer stay.
The new guidelines specifies that the travellers arriving in the country must have one of the above mentioned valid visas and the COE (Certificate of Entry).
One has to apply for the COE certification after receiving visa. The Certificate of Entry along with a health insurance covering COVID-19 expenses and a 14-day quarantine are mandatory for both the type of visa.
Tourists having TR Visa will be allowed to stay in the country for a period of up to 60 days from the date of entry. Extension can be made possible for 30 more days with a maximum period of stay of 90 days from the date of entry.
Whereas tourists having STV Visa are allowed to stay for a period of up to 90 days from the date of entry. STV can be extended twice during the tourist’s stay for a period of up to 90 days per extension.
“We are now strategising our efforts towards rebuilding tourism. The new visa rule and procedures will act as a catalyst to ensure uttermost safety is maintained while we open the country for international tourists. We will work cohesively with our travel trade partners and continuously aid them with revised product offerings. Together we will adapt to the new normal and slowly but steadily, we will see more and more tourists visiting our country.”, said Cholada Siddhivarn, director, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mumbai office.
“Thailand is gradually opening up for international tourists including Indian travellers and we hope that regular flights between the two countries will be starting soon. Once tourists arrive in Thailand, they should ensure to follow all safety measures of “Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration Certification” or SHA which covers every touch points of tourist experience in Thailand. Tourist can be confident on safety and have a good experience while travelling in Thailand as well.”, added Vachirachai Sirisumpan, director, Tourism Authority of Thailand, New Delhi office.