Thailand’s Centre of COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) has approved the removal of the Thailand Pass registration scheme and the US$10 000 (R159 400) health insurance requirement for all foreign visitors, including South Africans, from July 1. Both requirements were initially removed for Thai nationals from June 1.
Foreign nationals will only have to show proof of either vaccination or a negative PCR or rapid antigen test result taken within 72 hours of travel. These can be in a print or digital format, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
Random checks on unvaccinated travellers will be made on arrivals at Thailand’s international airports and land border checkpoints across 22 provinces. Those unable to show proof of a pre-arrival negative test will have to undergo a professional rapid antigen test at the point of entry.
New normal
Meanwhile, the CCSA also approved the designation of Bangkok and 76 provinces as ‘green zones’, thus allowing resumption of new normal businesses and activities nationwide.
While maintaining the safety and health measures under the universal prevention, the government is also preparing to announce a new set of guidelines as the nation steps into a post-pandemic reality.
