Thailand reviewing 2-jab entry rule after warning from Phuket
The government is reviewing its abruptly issued rule that foreign arrivals must show proof of two Covid-19 jabs, after Phuket tourism operators complained it had caused many tourists to cancel bookings.
Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said on Monday that he had asked Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to adjust the new two-jab for foreign arrivals.
Phiphat intervened after the Phuket Tourist Association submitted a letter to the government complaining the new rule threatened tourism recovery amid the return of Chinese visitors from today. The rule, which was abruptly restored amid concern over soaring Covid infections in China, came into effect at 1am on Monday.
Phiphat also advised tourists from countries that require a negative RT-PCR test result on return to purchase health insurance so they can claim treatment expenses if they test positive for Covid in Thailand. Entry to China still requires a negative test.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is asking hotels to provide RT-PCR tests for foreign tourists, he said.
Current entry requirements for visitors to Thailand are as follows:
- Proof of at least two Covid-19 vaccine jabs
- Visitors should postpone their trip if they develop respiratory symptoms
- Visitors from countries that require a negative RT-PCR test result on return should purchase health insurance to cover Covid-19 treatment
Foreign tourists are also advised to wear face masks in public, wash hands regularly, take a test if they develop respiratory symptoms, visit a hospital if they suffer severe respiratory symptoms, and stay at an SHA-standard hotel that offers tests if their home country requires a negative test on return.
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