Thailand Travel Guide – New updates regarding travel restrictions took effect on November 22, 2021 midnight. The Test and Go along with the sandbox program (except for Phuket Sandbox) were temporarily suspended as a precaution against the Omicron variant.
OMICRON – WHAT WE KNOW SO FAR
SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.529 was first reported to the World Health Organization on November 24, 2021, from South Africa. The collection of the first specimen occurred on November 9, 2021. WHO announced it as a variant of concern and named as Omicron on November 26, 2021. Omicron has concerning multiple mutations that are currently being studied.
INTERNATIONAL RESPONSE
Many countries have issued travel restrictions, especially from South African countries. As of December 16, 2021, the variant has already spread to 54 countries. The United Kingdom and South Africa have reported the most cases. Countries are now updating their current travel restrictions to minimize the spread of the variant.
THAILAND TRAVEL GUIDE (UPDATE)
As of 00:00 of November 22, 202, Thailand has updated the travel restrictions.
Applicants who have registered, approved, and have received their QR code may enter Thailand.
Applicants who have registered but have not received their respective QR codes must wait for the approval of their Thailand Pass. Tourists must register and wait for approval before they enter the country.
New applicants may only apply for the Phuket Sandbox. Alternative Quarantine has replaced the Test and Go and other sandbox schemes.
Travelers who arrived under the Test and Go and Sandbox program must undergo a 2nd COVID-19 test (NOT ATK Self Test) at government-designated facilities with no additional cost.
International travelers from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe are not allowed to enter Thailand. South African countries not listed above are required to undergo a 14-day mandatory quarantine. Tourist may book their stay at any certified quarantine hotels from Bangkok, Phuket, or Samui before being able to travel around Thailand.