BREAKING: Unvaccinated tourists can fly to Thailand, so long as…
After facing an international backlash for reintroducing the two-dose Covid-19 vaccine entry requirement at the last minute, Thailand will allow unvaccinated tourists to fly into the country so long as they have either proof of recovery from Covid in the past six months OR a doctor’s letter explaining why they are not vaccinated.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) issued an updated Notice to Airmen (NOTEM) to all airlines…
“The Ministry of Public Health has issued the measure for international passengers as follows…
“1. Passengers 18 years old or older must provide proof of full vaccination or proof of Covid-19 recovery, not more than six months (180 days) passenger who does not have vaccine must have a letter from a doctor providing a reason.”
The NOTAM also detailed other entry requirements…
“2. Passengers from a country that has requirements which may prevent passengers to go back due to Covid-19 shall be required to have health insurance covering at least US$10,000 of treatment for covid-19 for the itineraries in Thailand plus seven days.
“Those with business arrangements, including flight crew, and students, may have a letter from the host or other form of insurance to cover such need.
“3. Holder of official and diplomat passports, United Nations Laissez-passer are exempted from health insurance requirements.
“4. Holders of Thai passports and transit/transfer passengers are exempted from vaccination check and health insurance requirements.
“5. The airlines must check the documents as required. If a passenger fails to produce a document proving these requirements are met, the passenger is subjected to be tested at the port of arrival.
“6. The airlines must adhere to related regulations and comply with the guidance as appropriate such as asking passengers to wear masks at all times except during meals or emergencies.
“7. Any passenger having symptoms of covid-19 during travel shall be recommended to test at arrival.”
If you’re unsure, you can contact your airline and ask if they have received the NOTAM yet.
At the moment, it’s unclear whether documents will be checked at the port of departure only or also upon arrival in Thailand.
The Thaiger will update the story when more information is available.
