Starting Next Month, No PCR Test Result Required for Entry into Thailand

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jinyoung] Starting next month, travelers entering Thailand will no longer need to present a negative PCR test result.

Local media reported on the 18th that the government’s COVID-19 Situation Administration Center (CCSA) has approved this easing of entry requirements.

CCSA spokesperson Thawisin Wisanu-yotin stated at a briefing that from the 1st of next month, regardless of whether travelers enter without quarantine or with quarantine, there will be no need to submit a prior negative PCR test result.

Previously, travelers entering Thailand were required to present a negative PCR test result conducted within 72 hours before departure.

However, spokesperson Thawisin explained that PCR testing on the day of entry and rapid antigen tests conducted by travelers themselves on the 5th day after entry will still be maintained.

CCSA also announced that the duration of the ‘Sandbox Program’ will be shortened from 7 days to 5 days starting from the 1st of next month. The Sandbox Program allows travelers to stay in certain tourist areas such as Phuket for a set period and, if they maintain a negative COVID-19 status, to move to other regions.

This government decision appears to reflect the voices of the tourism industry. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine led to a decline in Russian tourists, this measure is interpreted as encouraging tourists from other countries to visit.

The Thai Chamber of Commerce forecasted that due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the number of Russian tourists visiting Thailand this year could fall to less than half of the initially expected 500,000.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.