travel to thailand without vaccine

This website is managed by Siam Legal International - a law firm in Thailand

Latest Thailand Entry Requirements

After two years of dealing with Covid, international travel is returning to normal. To help welcome visitors back to the Land of Smiles, the Thai government lifted its final restrictions on July 1st, 2022.

From July 1st, the following changes have been implemented for all international travelers.

• Foreigners do not need to show proof of Covid Insurance.
• All mandatory hotel quarantine has been removed.
• Thailand Pass is no longer required for foreign travelers entering Thailand.
• Vaccinated travelers do not need to provide proof of vaccination to Thai authorities before arriving.
• Unvaccinated travelers (including children traveling with unvaccinated parents) will need to complete an RT-PCR or Professional Antigen Test (Pro-ATK) 72 hours before departing for Thailand. Proof does not need to be uploaded before traveling.
• Airlines and Thai Immigration will do random checks to confirm travelers meet Covid prevention requirements (vaccination or Covid test).

Below is a full list of what international travelers need before entering Thailand.

Required Documents for Travel to Thailand

Please have the following documents ready.

• Passport with at least six month validity
• Visa or visa exemption qualification
• Buy Thailand Travel Insurance
• Boarding pass to be presented at Passport Control
• Hotel booking confirmation if asked by Immigration Officer
• Note: Vaccination record no longer required

Incorrect documents will delay the entry screening by rules from the Thai immigration bureau and its Thai immigration officials.

Buy Your Insurance Now

Passport Validity / Visas

The first thing to check before planning to travel to Thailand is the validity of your passport. International travel requires that your passport is not expiring within six months of your travel date. If you have less than six months left on your passport, you cannot enter Thailand.

If you are planning to travel in the future, check your passport early so you know if you need to apply for a new one or not. It is best to check with your local embassy about how long it will take to receive your new passport. As people look to travel again, passport departments are swamped with new applications and this is causing a backlog in many countries.

There are several visas available to foreigners who are planning to visit Thailand. The visa you need will depend on where you are from, your purpose of travel, and how long you intend to stay.

Visa Exemption

A foreign visitor may enter Thailand under the Visa Exemption Program . Nationalities under the Visa Exemption Program may enter Thailand without a visa from a Thai Embassy or Consulate.

Upon arriving in Thailand, most nationalities who are part of the Visa Exemption Program may stay for up to 30 days. Certain nationalities can arrive as part of this program, but for a shorter time. It is best to check the country exemption list and confirm how long you can visit Thailand without needing to apply for a Visa.

Tourists arriving under visa exemption are eligible to extend their stay for up to a further 30 days by visiting a local Thai Immigration Office. The cost to extend is approximately 2000 baht.

There is often confusion about Visa Exemption and “Visa on Arrival”. Visa on Arrival is a 15-day visa for travelers from India,  China, and 16 other countries. If you do not find your country on the Visa Exemption list, it is best to check the Visa on Arrival list.

There are some important things to note for Visa on Arrival:

• A passport must be valid for at least 30 days.
• The purpose of the visit is strictly tourist.
• A visitor must show an address in Thailand where they will be staying.
• A traveler must have a confirmed return flight.
• Must show proof of funds to the value of 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht for a family.
• A fee of 2000 baht is paid on arrival. The fee must be paid in cash and in Thai baht.

Tourist Visa and Special Tourist Visa (STV)

Foreigners may also apply for a Tourist Visa from a Thai embassy or consulate. There is the normal 60-day tourist visa that can be extended for additional 30 days, or the 90-day Special Tourist Visa (STV), which can be extended for 90 days twice at a local immigration office. There are certain requirements needed for the STV, but it allows a visitor to potentially stay in Thailand for 9 months. The Special Tourist Visa is currently scheduled to halt applications in September.

Contact your local Thai Embassy to verify what documents are needed to complete the process. When your visa is approved, the Embassy will place a sticker on your passport, so allow time for potential postage.

For those entering Thailand for a different purpose of stay, they need to obtain a Thai visa from their local Thai Embassy or Consulate prior to coming to Thailand.

Non-Immigrant Visa

Foreigners may apply for a wide range of long-term non-immigrant visas:

• Non-immigrant B Visa – for conducting business or employment
• Non-immigrant O visa – for visiting Thai spouse and family
• Non-immigrant ED visa – for students of recognized institutions in Thailand and their Parents or Legal guardian
• Non-immigrant O retirement visa – for those who wish to retire in Thailand
• Non-immigrant OA and OX visa – for those who wish to obtain a Thailand retirement visa for a long stay (it differs from type O visa)

The above visas can be organized at a local Thai Embassy or Consulate. The paperwork can be quite involved, but there are companies that can help.

Siam Legal International is a reputable company in Thailand that has offered visa assistance to foreign visitors for years. They are well versed in Thai immigration policies and processes. If you would like to streamline your long-term stay in Thailand, it is worth contacting them.

Thai Elite Visa

If you wish to make Thailand easily accessible for many years to come or are perhaps thinking of relocating permanently, it is worth having a look at the Thai Elite Visa.

The Thai Elite Visa allows foreign citizens to live in Thailand for 5, 10, or even 20 years. Thai Elite members do not need to worry about some of the eligibility criteria that are needed when applying for other long-term visas.

The Thai Elite visa is an exclusive visa that offers a host of benefits to holders. If you want to enjoy “Thai life” for the long term, you can read more about the Thai Elite Visa .

Proof of Vaccine or Testing

How a visitor enters Thailand will still depend on their vaccination status.

Vaccinated Travelers

Vaccinated travelers do not need to provide proof of vaccination to Thai authorities before arriving. A vaccinated traveler will need to have a copy of their vaccination certificate either printed or on a digital device and be able to present it if asked.

Thailand does not require visitors to have had a third booster shot. 2 shots (1 shot for Jansen) is considered fully vaccinated and accepted.

Unvaccinated Travelers

Unvaccinated travelers will need to complete an RT-PCR test or Professional Antigen Test (Pro-ATK) within 72 hours before boarding a flight in their departure country. They will need to have a copy of the test result and be able to present it if asked.

The RT-PCR and Pro-ATK test must be completed by a medical professional and a test report received. The home ATK (RAT) self-test is not acceptable for entering Thailand.

Vaccination and Testing for Children

The testing requirement for children under 18 depends on the vaccination status of their parents. Children traveling with vaccinated parents do not need to complete any RT-PCR or Pro-ATK test before entering Thailand. Children traveling with unvaccinated parents will need to complete the same test as their parents within 72 hours of departing their home country.

It is important to note that many airlines are still asking for proof of vaccination or a Covid test before boarding flights. If you cannot produce one of these documents, you might not board the flight.

Though foreigners no longer need to provide evidence of testing or vaccination prior to arriving in Thailand, they are still required. Thai authorities are conducting random checks of international passengers and if a vaccination certificate or test result cannot be shown, a visitor will not be allowed to enter Thailand.

Insurance has become a dirty word during Covid. Seasoned travelers have always understood the importance of having comprehensive Travel Insurance when traveling abroad. Travel insurance protected travelers from unexpected incidents like:

• Medical emergencies
• Personal injury & accidents
• Missed or delayed flights
• Damage to belongings
• Lost luggage

It was one of those things that people hoped they would never need but regretted not having when needed.

During the Pandemic, proof of insurance became mandatory when visiting countries like Thailand. Over time, people stopped referring to insurance as “Travel Insurance” and always referred to it as “Covid Insurance”. Because you had to have it, it was another hoop to jump through.

The good news is that you no longer need to provide proof of “Covid Insurance” to enter Thailand. But it is recommended because all the things listed above can still happen, and Covid has not disappeared completely.

Foreign visitors are not eligible for free medical care in Thailand if something should happen. Whether it be an accident or personal injury, if a visitor needs medical help, or has a canceled flight, they will need to cover any expenses themselves. Depending on the severity, this could be hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.

Buying good Travel Insurance shouldn’t break the bank. Protecting yourself is cheaper than medical bills, new flights, and replacing lost luggage.

You can buy Travel Insurance from many companies. But if you are looking for coverage that is designed for Thailand, is trusted by Thai authorities and medical institutions, and offers a helpline with people who speak the local language and know the country’s procedures, it is worth checking out AXA Thailand .

Their policies are well priced, straightforward, offer many benefits to its customers, and can be approved in minutes.

Get your travel insurance here: https://u.axa.co.th/Sawasdee_Siamlegal

Hotel and Proof of Address Updates

Previously, a foreign visitor would complete an Arrival Card (TM6) before entering Thailand. This requirement has been temporarily removed as part of a new initiative by the Thai government.

A visitor no longer needs to provide proof of a hotel booking before departing their country, but will still need to provide an address when passing through Passport Control in Thailand. This address can be a hotel, home, or friend’s address.

This is especially true with people arriving on a pre-approved visa from a Thai Embassy or Consulate.

From July 1, travelers are no longer required to book a SHA+ hotel and undergo an RT-PCR test on arrival. Most hotels have removed their SHA+ quarantine packages, but you will still see the SHA+ badge displayed on hotels.

It is recommended to browse hotels in Thailand on Agoda.com before arriving as it is easier to organize transport to your first night’s rest if pre-booked.

Thailand Pass

From July 1st, 2022, foreign travelers no longer need to apply for a Thailand Pass before entering Thailand. The system is still in place but is now a platform where visitors can notify the Thai authorities and medical facilities if they are diagnosed positive for Covid during their stay.

If you need to access the Thailand Pass system while in Thailand, please visit https://tp.consular.go.th/ and register by filling in your personal details on the Thailand Pass registration page.

International Arrivals

Travelers do not need to provide any proof of flights before leaving their home country.

There is a lot of discussion about whether a return flight needs to be booked when entering Thailand. Technically, all visitors should have a return flight booked. However, you will not always be asked to present evidence of a return flight.

If a visitor is entering Thailand with a pre-approved visa, or Visa on Arrival, they will often be asked to present details of their exit flight. Sometimes a visitor did not have a return flight and had to book a flight on the spot before being processed through Passport Control. To avoid this, it is best to book an exit flight that can be changed. You can always change your plans once in Thailand.

Domestic flights

There are no longer any restrictions on domestic flights and travel. When entering Thailand at an international terminal, a traveler is free to transit to a domestic flight right away. “Sealed” flights have been removed.

Domestic airlines will not always ask for proof, but it is best to have your vaccination certificate or Covid test result on hand in case you are asked to show it.

Siam Legal has received reports from potential clients that some hospitals are creating difficulties for them until full payment is made for their medical expenses. Also, foreigners have allegedly been threatened with lawsuits for not settling their medical bills before being discharged. Using out-of-country policies can be problematic. We recommend using insurance providers headquartered inside Thailand with a proper cover to avoid any undesirable outcomes.

Siam Legal International, a premier law firm in Thailand, recommends purchasing the proper insurance and so endorses AXA Insurance for your travel to Thailand insurance needs.

HERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT POINTS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE PURCHASING TRAVEL INSURANCE

• Please review the details of any insurance before purchasing to understand if the policy has adequate cover. Cheap policies with inadequate levels of cover can lead to significant personal liability, and scenarios where policy holders incur hundreds of thousands of baht in out-of-pocket medical expenses have been reported. There are significant financial risks to being underinsured during your stay in Thailand.
• These policies do not cover medical costs from accidents (like motorcycle accidents) or common unexpected illnesses (common fever or food poisoning). Best to pay a few baht more for the peace of mind that comes from having proper coverage.
• AXA covers medical expenses (outpatient and inpatient) for accidents and illnesses, including COVID-19. Other insurance coverage might not.
• AXA also covers telemedicine and teleconsultation, which may be required during the quarantine period of any traveler.

Thai hospital staff are familiar with AXA cover, which should prevent any inconvenience during hospital admission or medical treatment from your hotel room. AXA Thailand also offers 24/7 local support during your stay in Thailand.

You can buy your Thailand Travel insurance today at:

https://u.axa.co.th/Sawasdee_Siamlegal

List of approved covid-19 vaccines.

As of December 1, the MoPH has approved the following vaccines:

• Pfizer–BioNTech or Comirnaty
• Janssen or Janssen/Ad26.COV2.S
• AstraZeneca or Covishield
• Sinopharm or COVILO
• CoronaVac or SinoVac
• Sputnik Lite

How to Obtain Travel Insurance

Though COVID-19 insurance is no longer mandatory for entry to Thailand, it is recommended to have comprehensive Travel insurance for the duration of your stay. Good travel insurance covers not only medical expenses relating to Covid but also accident cover, personal damage, loss of possessions, and missed or delayed flights.

It is best to purchase insurance before you travel. The easiest way to buy your policy is online through a reputable insurance provider. The insurance company will provide you with the all-important certificate of cover that you can present to authorities or medical professionals if you need to make a claim.

You may also be asked to present this certificate to the airline before they will allow you to onboard. It’s quick and easy to do online. You can choose your length of policy from 7, 15, 30, 60 days, and 180 days. Just make sure that the policy covers your entire period of stay in Thailand as foreigners are not eligible for free medical care in Thailand and insurance companies will not cover claims for existing conditions.

You may purchase AXA COVID-19 travel insurance within a few minutes. Check them below.

You can buy budget insurance here: https://www.siam-legal.com/axa-insurance

How to Open a Bank Account in Thailand

Siam Legal offers and provides aid for a smooth and hassle-free way to open up a Thai bank account.

• You will receive help in opening a savings/current bank account
• You will receive a Bankbook and a debit/ATM card
• Online Banking (Thai mobile number is required)

Requirements

• Guarantee letter (to be provided by Siam Legal)
• The applicant may book our service online.
• Our staff will prepare the application and necessary documents for the bank and arrange an appointment with the applicant.
• The applicant will collect the application form and documents from the Siam Legal Bangkok office and proceed to the specific bank branch. Opening the account at the bank takes 1 to 2 hours.

Service Fee

Our service fee is 150 USD for opening a Thai savings account in Bangkok.

City Travel Guide

• How to Travel to Bangkok
• How to Travel to Phuket
• How to Travel to Pattaya
• How to Travel to Chiang Mai
• How to Travel to Samui
• How to Travel to Hua Hin

Useful Links

• Best COVID-19 Insurance for Foreigners  
• Thailand Elite Visa – long term visa option for Thailand
• How to Travel to Thailand in 2022 – Your Ultimate Guide

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Thailand Travel Restrictions 2023

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

There is no longer active cholera transmission and vaccine is not recommended.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Thailand.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Thailand. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Thailand.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Thailand take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Thailand.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Thailand. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Thailand, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Thailand. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Thailand, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Thailand. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Thailand—such as dengue, Zika, and filariasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Thailand include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Thailand. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Thailand’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Thailand. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Thailand may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Thailand, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Thailand, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Thailand .

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Thailand.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Thailand, dial 1669 for an ambulance, 199 for the fire department, and 191 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you on your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Thailand before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Thailand from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Thailand for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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No more 7-day quarantine as Thailand encourages vaccinated tourists to return

Jan 20, 2022 • 4 min read

Thailand is resuming its quarantine-free entry program for international visitors ©Getty Images

Thailand is resuming its Test-and-Go tourism plan  from February, which means that fully vaccinated visitors can bypass seven-day quarantine and travel to any part of Thailand, provided they take a negative COVID-19 test on the first and fifth day of their visit.

Fully vaccinated tourists from 63 countries, including United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Ireland, Germany, China, Singapore, Spain, France, Italy, the United Arab Emirates, and Malaysia, can soon avail of the Test-and-Go program again after the government suspended it in December due to the uncertaintity surrounding the Omicron variant.

The (almost) quarantine-free entry Test-and-Go plan requires fully vaccinated arrivals to have COVID-19 insurance cover of at least US$50,000 (£36,600), and present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test before they depart for Thailand.

New applicants for the Test-and-Go program are also required to undergo two additional COVID-19 tests upon arrival and must, at their own expense, spend the first night and fifth night in Thailand quarantining at a government-approved hotel while awaiting their results (COVID-19 test results can take about 24 hours to be processed). Tourists must stay in their room while awaiting the result. But once the result is negative, tourists will be free to move and travel around Thailand much in the same way that any Thai citizen can.

Anyone who applied for the Test-and-Go program before December 22 and received their QR code is required to take their test on day five and six instead.

Government spokesperson Taweesilp Wisanuyothin told reporters, via The Bangkok Post , that the Test-and-Go program can resume on February 1 now that the Omicron peak has passed. The tourism program will be kept under review though, along with the Sandbox program  (Thailand's first phase of its return to tourism which allows fully vaccinated visitors from any country to travel to approved locations such as Phuket , Krabi and Ko Pha-ngan  for at least seven days before being free to travel around Thailand).

"In case there are more infections or the situation changes, there will be a re-assessment for inbound travellers and adjust toward the Sandbox scheme," Wisanuyothin said.

Travelers are also required to download the MorChana app , a tracking app where they will be reminded to take another antigen test on day five. Travelers under the age of 12 are exempt from vaccination requirements but they will be required to undergo testing.

Unvaccinated travelers in Thailand

People who are not vaccinated can also visit Thailand under the country's Alternative Quarantine program . They must apply for a Thailand Pass and travelers over the age of six must take a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test no more than 72 hours before traveling. They'll also have to have an insurance policy with at least US$50,000 coverage and pay for their quarantine accommodation before traveling to Thailand, as well as their PCR tests.

Travelers who are fully vaccinated with an approved dose (or at least one dose for travelers under the age of 18) are required to quarantine for seven days and take two PCR tests. Travelers who are not fully vaccinated must quarantine for 10 days and take three PCR tests. When they quarantine period is over, travelers will be free to travel around Thailand.

Read more: Full Moon Party or peaceful paradise? Thailand has a beach for you

Thailand entry fee

Meanwhile, Thailand is considering introducing a tourist fee of 300 baht ($9/£7) in April, though it has yet to be approved. If introduced, the charge would be applied to all international tourists, regardless of where they are coming from and included in their airfare.. According to Thailand's tourism ministry , the revenue generated from the fee would be used to fund the sustainable management of Thailand's tourism resources, in addition to covering accident insurance for tourists who can't afford it.

"We've encountered times when insurance didn't have coverage for tourists... which became our burden to take care of them," the country's tourism minister, Yuthasak Supasorn, told Reuters .

Thailand continues to categorize provinces into dark red, red and orange zones based on their COVID-19 risk, with varied restrictions in place across each zone. Check the latest advice for the area you are traveling to before departure. Face masks are compulsory across Thailand and must be worn in indoor and outdoor public places and on public transport.

You might also like: The quickest, easiest and most affordable ways to get around in Thailand You won't believe the views on these 9 iconic Thailand hikes Bali is now open to international travelers from these countries

This article was first published October 2021 and updated January 2022

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Thailand Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Thailand

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Recommended in public spaces.

Entry details & exceptions

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Can I travel to Thailand from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Thailand.

Can I travel to Thailand if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Thailand without restrictions.

Can I travel to Thailand without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Thailand without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Thailand?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Thailand.

Can I travel to Thailand without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Thailand?

Mask usage in Thailand is recommended in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Thailand?

Restaurants in Thailand are open. Bars in Thailand are .

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Rules for travel to Thailand explained

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) on Friday issued a statement clarifying rules and restrictions for international tourists arriving in the country from November 1.

Thailand will from Monday be open to fully-vaccinated visitors from 46 countries/territories.

There are currently three entry options for foreign tourists, including Exemption from Quarantine, Living in the “Blue Zone” (17 sandbox destinations) and Happy Quarantine Nationwide.

All travellers are required to register for the Thailand Pass before arrival and download the MorChana application upon arrival. Each traveller is also required to have insurance coverage of no less than US$50,000.

Exemption from Quarantine

Travellers under this scheme must produce proof of vaccination at least 14 days before travelling. This rule does not apply to children below the age of 12 travelling with their parents. They are also required to produce a negative RT-PCR test result issued within 72 hours of travel.

They must also have a confirmed booking for the first night at a SHA+ hotel or an alternative quarantine (AQ) site. At the hotel, they will undergo an RT-PCR test and are only allowed to check out if the result is negative. Tourists are also required to take an ATK self-test on day six or seven of their stay in Thailand.

Living in the Blue Zone

Double-jabbed travellers arriving under this scheme will be required to spend their first seven days in the sandbox area before they can travel to other areas.

They are required to show a confirmed booking for seven days at a SHA+ or AQ hotel as well as a negative RT-PCR test result taken within 72 hours of travel. They will undergo another RT-PCR test upon arrival at the hotel and are required to take an ATK self-test on day six or seven.

Travellers under this scheme must provide proof of complete vaccination, though children below 12 travelling with parents are exempted.

These travellers are allowed to travel freely within the blue zone for the first seven days.

The sandbox “blue zone” covers: • Bangkok • Krabi • Chonburi (Bang Lamung, Pattaya, Sri Racha, Koh Sichang, Sattahip, Na Jomtien, Bang Saray) • Chiang Mai (Muang, Doi Tao, Mae Rim, Mae Taeng) • Trat (Koh Chang) • Buri Ram (Muang) • Prachuap Khiri Khan (Hua Hin, Nong Kae) • Phang Nga • Phetchaburi (Cha-am) • Phuket • Ranong (Koh Phayam) • Rayong (Koh Samet) • Loei (Chiang Khan) • Samut Prakan (Suvarnabhumi Airport) • Surat Thani (Koh Samui, Koh Pha-ngan, Koh Tao) • Nong Khai (Muang, Si Chiang Mai, Tha Bo, Sangkhom) • Udon Thani (Muang, Na Yoong, Nong Han, Prajaksilpakom, Kumphawapi, Ban Dung)

Another 16 provinces will be added to the list of sandbox destinations in the second phase in December, namely Ayutthaya, Chiang Rai, Khon Kaen, Lamphun, Mae Hong Son, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, Pathum Thani, Phatthalung, Phrae, Phetchabun, Songkhla, Sukhothai, Trang and Yala.

In the third phase, which kicks off on January 1, another 12 provinces will be opened under the sandbox scheme. They include Bueng Kan, Chanthaburi, Kanchanaburi, Mukdahan, Nakhon Phanom, Nan, Ratchaburi, Sa Kaew, Satun, Surin, Tak and Ubon Ratchathani.

Happy Quarantine Nationwide

Under this scheme, double-jabbed travellers can go anywhere in the country after being quarantined for seven days, while unvaccinated tourists arriving by air or boat will be quarantined for 10 days. Those travelling by land will undergo a 14-day quarantine.

Travellers must have a negative RT-PCR test result issued 72 hours before travelling except for Thai nationals. Those under this scheme will undergo an RT-PCR test on arrival and again on day six or seven, day eight or nine, or day 12 or 13 based on the quarantine requirements.

They are also required to produce proof of confirmed hotel booking for seven, 10 or 14 days as required.

Visa requirements

There are currently two types of tourist visa on offer: • Single-entry tourist visa: Allows stay for up to 60 days with a possible one-time extension of 30 days. • Special Tourist Visa (STV): Allows stay of up to 90 days with a possible extension of 90 days twice.

Visit www.thaievisa.go.th for details and to file a visa application.

Thailand Pass

From November 1, the Thailand Pass system will replace the Certificate of Entry (COE) and can be applied for at https://tp.consular.go.th/ .

However, a COE will be required for certain groups of travellers such as medical tourists who need to stay in Alternative Hospital Quarantine (AHQ), those who cross land borders or those travelling in yachts or cruise ships.

Before arrival, travellers must have their passport, visa (if required), insurance and hotel reservation confirmation ready to apply for the Thailand Pass. Applications must be submitted at least seven days before travel. Upon submitting their application, travellers will be given a Thailand Pass QR code, after which they need to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours before departure.

Upon arrival, visitors must show the QR Code and test result to immigration officers before being let through. They will then take an RT-PCR test at the airport, hotel or designated accommodation.

Visit https://www.tatnews.org/category/thailand-tourism-updates/ for more information.

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Thailand travel rules: Entry requirements explained after U-turn on Covid vaccine requirement

China relaxed its border rules on 8 january.

Travellers to Thailand will not need to prove their vaccination status for entry after the Thai Government made a U-turn on the new rules that were sparked by China’s reopening of borders.

The Civil Aviation authority of Thailand had announced plans to reinstate a vaccine requirement for all arrivals on 9 January in preparation for an uptick in visitors from China, which relaxed its border rules on 8 January.

However, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) issued a statement on Monday in which it said that the country “continues to welcome all international tourists under the fully-reopen-tourism policy introduced on 1 October”.

TAT referred to Anutin Charnviraku, Thailand’s deputy prime minister and minister of public health, who said: “International travellers arriving in Thailand are not required to show proof of vaccination.”

Why was Thailand planning new entry rules?

A slew of countries, including the UK, the US and several EU member states have added instated new rules for travellers arriving from China following the announcement that the country would relax border controls.

The UK Government had cited the lack of transparency from China about the scale of the Covid epidemic in the country and its surge in cases of the virus as the reason for its new border restrictions.

China is a major source market for Thailand and reinstating rules for all arrivals would have answered concerns about the Covid epidemic in China without singling out Chinese visitors.

The UK requires arrivals aged 12 or over on direct flights from China to take a pre-departure Covid test for entry .

Passengers who travel from China via a connecting flight with a ticket showing the UK as the final destination are also subject to testing requirements. Voluntary testing on arrival is also in place.

More from Travel

Are there any Covid entry requirements?

Arrivals to Thailand are not required to present vaccine proof or a negative Covid-19 test result.

As of 9 January, travellers visiting Thailand and then travelling to another country that requires a PCR test will need to purchase medical insurance prior to your arrival in Thailand that provides cover for Covid-19 treatment.

Most Read By Subscribers

Travel Vaccines and Advice for Thailand

Thailand is a popular destination with its tropical climate, food, culture and beaches.

Thai is the official language of Thailand. But, other smaller languages spoken in rural areas. The primary religion of Thailand is Buddhism and is prevalent in many aspects of culture throughout Thailand. Islam is also practiced in Southern provinces.

Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, is also the largest city in the country. Bangkok is highly populated with congested streets, modern buildings and temples. It is most known for its nightlife.

Thailand’s other major cities include Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai.

Do I Need Vaccines for Thailand?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Thailand. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Thailand: typhoid , cholera , hepatitis A , polio , yellow fever , Japanese encephalitis , chikungunya , rabies , hepatitis B , influenza , COVID-19 , pneumonia , chickenpox , shingles , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• Typhoid – Food & Water – Recommended for travelers to most regions.
• Cholera – Food & Water – Cholera is rare, but present in Thailand. Vaccination is recommended for travelers at increased risk or visiting areas with active transmission.
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travelers.
• Polio – Food & Water – Generally considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission
• Japanese Encephalitis – Mosquito – Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travelers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country, especially northern regions. Most cases from May to October.
• Chikungunya – Mosquito – Thailand is a higher risk region. Vaccination is recommended.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travelers to most regions.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.

See the table below for more information:

Specific Vaccine Information

• Typhoid – Typhoid, caused by Salmonella Typhi, spreads via contaminated food and water, especially in areas with poor sanitation. Protect yourself by practicing good hygiene and safe food habits. Vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of typhoid infection, especially when traveling to endemic areas.
• Hepatitis A – Be sure to protect yourself from hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection caused by HAV, through vaccination. The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Along with vaccination, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are essential for prevention.
• Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-spread viral disease that affects the central nervous system. Prevention is achieved through protective attire and vaccination.
• Chikungunya – Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus, can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites and reducing breeding sites. The chikungunya vaccine provides teh best protection.
• Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral illness transmitted mainly through animal bites. Vaccination is pivotal, with pre-exposure and post-exposure options available to protect against this potentially fatal disease.
• Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus leads to liver infection through contact with infected fluids. The most effective safeguard is the hepatitis B vaccine, administered in a series of shots that stimulate the body to produce antibodies, providing long-term immunity. It is crucial for infants and those at an increased risk of exposure.
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are viral infections that can spread through close contact and respiratory droplets. Vaccination is the most effective way to halt their transmission. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, strengthens immunity, reducing the chances of contracting and spreading these diseases.

Malaria In Thailand

Malaria is primarily found the border provinces, near Burma, Cambodia and Malaysia. Some rare cases have been identified in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Parasites in Thailand are resistant to chloroquine and mefloquine. Consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarial will be best for your trip.

To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or book online now.

Other Ways to Stay Healthy In Thailand

Prevent bug bites in thailand.

Safeguard against bug bites by dressing appropriately and using EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. If bitten, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and mitigate discomfort with OTC treatments. Seek medical aid for serious reactions.

Food and Water Safety In Thailand

When traveling, ensure food safety by adhering to CDC recommendations, which include eating fully cooked foods, avoiding raw seafood, and selecting reputable dining places. Safely drink bottled beverages, avoiding ice in uncertain water sources, and consume alcohol in moderation. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea through hand hygiene and avoiding street food in unsanitary areas.

Infections To Be Aware Of In Thailand

• Avian/Bird Flu – Avian flu, also known as bird flu, is a contagious virus that affects birds and can spread to humans. Preventing it involves vaccination of poultry, strict biosecurity on farms, safe handling and cooking of poultry, surveillance for outbreaks, and raising public awareness.
• Dengue – Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including high fever and pain. The CDC emphasizes prevention through avoiding mosquito bites by using repellents and removing standing water. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and hydration, avoiding certain pain relievers that can worsen bleeding risks.
• Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sand flies’ bites. To prevent its spread, individuals should use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing and limit outdoor activities during sand fly activity periods. Eliminating breeding sites and early diagnosis are crucial for effective prevention.
• Zika – Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, can cause mild to severe symptoms and poses significant risks during pregnancy. Prevention strategies include using insect repellent, safe sex practices, and avoiding travel to affected areas.

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Thailand?

U.S. citizens staying in Thailand for 30 days or less do not need a visa. But, their passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Sources: Embassy of Thailand and U.S. State Department

Always carry your passport and visa with you to avoid arrest in Thailand.

What is the Climate Like in Thailand?

Thailand is a country with a tropical climate that is hot and humid throughout the year. The temperature ranges from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius during the day. The weather can be different depending on where you are in Thailand. Here are some popular tourist destinations:

• Bangkok : Bangkok is hot and humid all year round. It rains a lot, especially between May and October.
• Phuket : Phuket is a tropical place. It can rain a lot from May to October. The temperature is usually between 75 and 90 degrees.
• Chiang Mai : Chiang Mai has a tropical climate with three different seasons: cool, hot, and rainy. The cool season runs from November to February, the hot season from March to May, and the rainy season from June to October.
• Pattaya : Pattaya is hot and humid all year round. It rains a lot, especially between May and October.
• Koh Samui : Koh Samui is an island that has two different seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season runs from December to April, and the rainy season from May to November.

Remember that weather can change, so always check the forecast before you travel.

How Safe is Thailand?

In the past few years, there have been periodic terrorist attacks at popular tourist attractions in Thailand,. This remains a high-concern today. There is an ongoing risk of terrorist attacks in Thailand.

The National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) has placed strict restrictions on media and have banned political gatherings. Tourists may be detained by the military for openly criticizing the NCPO.

Pick-pocketing is common in Thailand as is sexual violence in bars and isolated areas.

Do not use your passport as collateral. Many rental places are scams.

In Southern Thailand (Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla), martial law is still prevalent. Tourists are cautioned against traveling to these areas.

Temples in Thailand

Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs, insect-borne disease are a threat throughout the world., keep the bugs away with passport health’s repellent options .

There are over 40,000 temples in Thailand, making them popular tourist attractions. These temples range in age and architecture and many are still in use today.

Wat Pho, located in Bangkok, is one of the most popular due to its size and attractions within. It is one of the largest complexes in the country, holding many buildings. Wat Pho houses the largest reclining Buddha and largest collection of Buddha images.

The site is also headquarters for the teaching and preservation of Thai medicine. There, tourists can find two massage schools and pavilions.

You must take off your shoes to enter and you purchase coins to put into bowls for good luck. All the money goes towards renovating and up-keeping the site.

What Should I Take To Thailand?

Thailand is a hot and humid country, it’s important to pack lightweight and comfortable clothing. You should bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to avoid the strong sun rays. Mosquitoes are common in Thailand, so it’s important to bring insect repellent to avoid bites.

Thailand uses different types of electrical outlets, so it’s recommended to bring a universal adapter. It’s also recommended to pack any prescription medication and over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, and motion sickness medication.

Thailand is a cash-based society, so it’s important to bring cash and credit cards. If you plan to visit the beaches or go swimming, don’t forget to pack swimwear and a beach towel. When visiting temples or other religious sites, make sure to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, and avoid wearing revealing clothing in public places.

Don’t forget to bring your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, and any other important travel documents.

U.S. Embassy in Thailand

All Americans visiting Tunisia should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.

Once in Thailand, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:

U.S. Embassy Bangkok 95 Wireless Road Bangkok 10330 Thailand Telephone: + (66) (2) 205-4049, 02-205-4049 (within Thailand) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(66) (2) 205-4000, 02-205-4000 (within Thailand) Fax: +(66) (2) 205-4103, 02-205-4103 (within Thailand) Email: [email protected]

If you have any questions about traveling to Thailand or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now! and protect yourself today.

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Thailand Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 24, 2023, thailand - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Thailand. Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider travel to:

• Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla provinces due to  civil unrest associated with ongoing insurgent activities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Thailand.

If you decide to travel to Thailand:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Thailand.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla Provinces – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Periodic violence directed mostly at Thai government interests by a domestic insurgency continues to affect security in the southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla. In Songkhla, the insurgency is most active in the districts of Chana, Thepha, Nathawat, and Saba Yoi. U.S. citizens are at risk of death or injury due to the possibility of indiscriminate attacks in public places.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces as U.S government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these provinces.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Thailand set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Royal Thai Embassy in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel company or airline for changes.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

You should also read TravelHealthPro’s general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Travel to Thailand

If you are visiting Thailand and then travelling to a country that requires an RT-PCR test for entry, you will need to buy medical insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment before you arrive in Thailand.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from when you enter Thailand.

You could be refused entry to Thailand if your passport is damaged or has pages missing.

If you’re a dual national, to avoid problems at immigration, you must leave Thailand on the same passport you used to enter.

If you need to renew or apply for a new British passport, see overseas British passport applications .

Visa requirements

British passport holders arriving by air or land can enter Thailand for 30 days without a visa (visa exemption).

If you intend to stay longer (for work, study or other reasons) you need a visa before you travel.

For more information on visas or entry requirements, contact the Royal Thai Embassy or local Immigration Office.

Overstaying your visa

If you stay beyond the period of your visa, you will be fined 500 Thai baht a day up to a maximum of 20,000 baht. You risk being:

• held in detention
• deported at your own expense
• banned from re-entering Thailand for up to 10 years

Conditions in detention centres can be harsh.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro .

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Thailand . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Importing cigarettes

It is illegal to import more than 200 cigarettes per person into Thailand. This is enforced at customs on arrival. If you go over the limit, you could be fined 10 times the value. Your cigarettes will likely be confiscated.

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Thailand

Thailand is a popular destination with its tropical climate, food, culture and beaches.

Thai is the official language of Thailand. But, other smaller languages spoken in rural areas. The primary religion of Thailand is Buddhism and is prevalent in many aspects of culture throughout Thailand. Islam is also practiced in Southern provinces.

Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, is also the largest city in the country. Bangkok is highly populated with congested streets, modern buildings and temples. It is most known for its nightlife.

Thailand’s other major cities include Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai.

Do I Need Vaccines for Thailand?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Thailand. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Thailand: hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , cholera , yellow fever , Japanese encephalitis , rabies , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Cholera – Food & Water – Cholera is rare, but present in Thailand. Vaccination is recommended for travellers at increased risk or visiting areas with active transmission.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission
• Japanese Encephalitis – Mosquito – Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country, especially northern regions. Most cases from May to October.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

Various mosquito-borne diseases are present in Thailand. Malaria poses a threat to travellers to some regions of the country. Make sure you are protected with antimalarials.

Dengue , Zika and chikungunya can also be found in Thailand. While there are no vaccines available for these diseases, there are steps you can take to prevent them. Be sure to use mosquito repellents, netting and wear proper clothing.

Medical treatment is adequate and common in urban areas. Healthcare is also available in rural areas, though the health care providers may not speak English.

To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page . Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now .

Customer Reviews

Passport health – travel vaccines for thailand, do i need a visa or passport for thailand.

If you are entering Thailand for tourism purposes under a 30-day period, you do not require a visa. All Canadian citizens must have a valid passport upon arrival. For those travelling to Thailand for business purposes, a business visa is required.

Sources: Embassy of Thailand and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Always carry your passport and visa with you to avoid arrest in Thailand.

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

What is the Climate Like in Thailand?

Thailand is a country with a tropical climate that is hot and humid throughout the year. The temperature ranges from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius during the day. The weather can be different depending on where you are in Thailand. Here are some popular tourist destinations:

• Bangkok : Bangkok is hot and humid all year round. It rains a lot, especially between May and October.
• Phuket : Phuket is a tropical place. It can rain a lot from May to October. The temperature is usually between 75 and 90 degrees.
• Chiang Mai : Chiang Mai has a tropical climate with three different seasons: cool, hot, and rainy. The cool season runs from November to February, the hot season from March to May, and the rainy season from June to October.
• Pattaya : Pattaya is hot and humid all year round. It rains a lot, especially between May and October.
• Koh Samui : Koh Samui is an island that has two different seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season runs from December to April, and the rainy season from May to November.

Remember that weather can change, so always check the forecast before you travel.

How Safe is Thailand?

In the past few years, there have been periodic terrorist attacks at popular tourist attractions in Thailand,. This remains a high-concern today. There is an ongoing risk of terrorist attacks in Thailand.

The National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) has placed strict restrictions on media and have banned political gatherings. Tourists may be detained by the military for openly criticizing the NCPO.

Pick-pocketing is common in Thailand as is sexual violence in bars and isolated areas.

Do not use your passport as collateral. Many rental places are scams.

In Southern Thailand (Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla), martial law is still prevalent. Tourists are cautioned against travelling to these areas.

Temples in Thailand

There are over 40,000 temples in Thailand, making them popular tourist attractions. These temples range in age and architecture and many are still in use today.

Wat Pho, located in Bangkok, is one of the most popular due to its size and attractions within. It is one of the largest complexes in the country, holding many buildings. Wat Pho houses the largest reclining Buddha and largest collection of Buddha images.

The site is also headquarters for the teaching and preservation of Thai medicine. There, tourists can find two massage schools and pavilions.

You must take off your shoes to enter and you purchase coins to put into bowls for good luck. All the money goes towards renovating and upkeeping the site.

What Should I Take To Thailand?

Thailand is a hot and humid country, it’s important to pack lightweight and comfortable clothing. You should bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to avoid the strong sun rays. Mosquitoes are common in Thailand, so it’s important to bring insect repellent to avoid bites.

Thailand uses different types of electrical outlets, so it’s recommended to bring a universal adapter. It’s also recommended to pack any prescription medication and over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, and motion sickness medication.

Thailand is a cash-based society, so it’s important to bring cash and credit cards. If you plan to visit the beaches or go swimming, don’t forget to pack swimwear and a beach towel. When visiting temples or other religious sites, make sure to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, and avoid wearing revealing clothing in public places.

Don’t forget to bring your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, and any other important travel documents.

Canadian Embassy in Thailand

Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Thailand, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:

Canadian Embassy Bangkok 15th Floor, Abdulrahim Place, 990 Rama IV, Bangrak, Bangkok, 10500, Thailand Tel.: +66 0 2646 4300

If you have any questions about travelling to Thailand or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now! and protect yourself today.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Thailand? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Thailand? What is the Climate Like in Thailand? How Safe is Thailand? Temples in Thailand What Should I Take To Thailand? Canadian Embassy in Thailand

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Thailand Vaccine Requirements: Latest Health Updates

Since October 1, 2022, Thailand has eliminated all COVID entry requirements. Visitors are advised to exercise normal precautions while in Thailand.

Do I need a COVID vaccine to travel to Thailand?

No, a Covid Vaccine is no longer required.

Other Vaccination Requirements

Different vaccines to consider (but not mandatory):

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B

Do I need a negative COVID-19 test result to enter Thailand?

No, there are no testing requirements to enter Thailand.

Is quarantine obligatory when I arrive in Thailand?

No, there are no quarantine requirements.

Essential Documents for Thailand Trip in 2024

Ensure you have these items ready for your journey to Thailand:

• A passport valid for a minimum of six months.
• Appropriate visa or qualification for visa exemption. Get you Thailand Visa with us!
• A travel insurance is recommended.
• Your boarding pass, to show at Passport Control.
• Confirmation of hotel booking, in case requested by an Immigration Officer.

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The culture, the people, the rich heritage, and the mind-wobbling scenic beauty of Thailand move every person who goes to visit this beautiful land. Thailand is a country with a large attraction of tourists and travelers from all across the globe. Thailand houses the largest number of Buddhists and monks and is equipped with more than forty-thousand Buddhist temples in the country. The country is also famous for its amazing shops and street food. Traveling to this country is no less than bliss!

Thailand is also famous for its tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins, and temples adorned with Buddha figures. In the capital Bangkok, an ultra-modern cityscape stands alongside tranquil canal-side communities and the iconic temples of Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew). Among the resorts on the nearby beaches are the overflowing Pattaya and the trendy Hua Hin.

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Hepatitis A and other vaccines required to enter Thailand? - Thailand Forum

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Hepatitis A and other vaccines required to enter Thailand?

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- Hepatitis A

- Yellow Fever

There is others as well, my question is, are these REQUIRED to enter Thailand? or can you still enter without these vaccinations?

Its not compulsory and no need at all for yellow fever and unlikely to be in danger from Hep A or B but if you can get them do so - you will neeed a booster and if you are planning on injecting yourself with heroin or having sex with a mucky woman or man then hep C

As for rabies avoid rabid dogs ! and if you do get bit get to hospital straight away

Typhoid and tetanus are also favourites

ps It goes without saying be up to date with your Covid vaccines and booster jabs

Tetanus is a given, wherever you live or visit.

In much of Asia, the use of squat toilets, and lack of hygiene, would, IMHO, warrant Hep A vaccination.

Only once did I see restaurant staff wash their hands upon exiting a toilet stall.

Hep A & B, Tetanus and Typhoid are the battery of vaccinations suggested for travel most anywhere in the world, but are not requirements for entry anywhere (that I am aware of).

Covid vaccination is the only one that is sort of mandatory, but you can enter without if you are willing to do the full stint in quarantine.

No vax other than Covid. If you don’t plan to go to remote areas I would suggest not to get them. I got them in previous travels to South Asia but they were not necessary really.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Thailand’s Tourist Towns Deal With Their Own Russian Invasion

I t’s just past 11 p.m. on Phuket’s neon-festooned Bangla Road and revelers are out in force, though the heady atmosphere is distinctly more Sochi than Southeast Asia. TVs overhanging the sprawling beer bars show ice skating instead of soccer; Cyrillic signage proliferates; and Russian-speaking touts dispense flyers for pole-dancing clubs exclusively featuring women from former Soviet republics. “Russians, Ukrainian, Belorussian, Kazakhs,” says one tout in dark Ray Bans and a skin-tight Armani polo shirt. “We have them all here.”

The war in Ukraine has entailed an incalculable human toll, while roiling markets, disrupting supply chains, and sending inflation soaring across the globe. But in Thailand, the two-year-old conflict is also having a profound social effect despite being over 4,000 miles away. While many Western nations have shut out Russian air travel in response to Vladimir Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Thailand sees Russian arrivals as key to reviving its pandemic-ravaged tourism industry. In October, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin extended 90-day visas upon arrival for Russian passports, insisting in a February interview : “We’re not part of the [Ukraine] conflict. We are neutral.”

Read More: 5 Takeaways from TIME’s Conversation with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin

Last year, Russians ranked top for tourist arrivals in Thailand from outside of Asia with 1.4 million visitors. Meanwhile, Russians were top overall on the southern resort island of Phuket, which has long been a favorite haunt. Last July, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Phuket to inaugurate a new consulate to cope with surging visitor numbers. A month later, the Phuket Tourist Association sent a delegation to St. Petersburg and Moscow seeking to court even more vacationers.

In the first three months of this year, 366,095 Russians arrived at Phuket International Airport, almost double the same period of 2023 and transforming the island’s commercial and social life. (That figure doesn’t include the significant number who transferred via Thailand’s main gateway of Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok.) But while a boon for the macro economy, the influx has chafed with locals who increasingly complain that Russians are stealing jobs and upsetting cultural mores. Across Thailand, lurid headlines such as “ Rabid Russian assaults police team in Phuket after going berserk at a city centre hotel ” and “ Russian tourist kicks pregnant Thai woman after asked to leave shoes outdoor ” are both a symptom and cause of alarm. (However, transgressions involving New Zealand , Swiss , and Portuguese nationals admittedly proliferate also.)

“Russia and Thailand are so different and sometimes they don’t understand Thai law and culture,” Lieut. Colonel Akachai Siri, chief inspector of Phuket Tourist Police, tells TIME. “Sometimes they break the law and they don’t recognize we have law enforcement.”

Nevertheless, Thailand’s Russian incursion appears here to stay. Other than the preferential visas, sanctions on Russian air carriers and reciprocal bans on Western airlines have slashed the destinations where Russian nationals can escape their frigid winter, making already-popular Thailand an easier choice. And then there are the not inconsiderable numbers fleeing economic doldrums and a war of choice that they had no part in choosing—not least since the Kremlin has ramped up military conscription amid mounting casualties .

“That was the final straw for us,” says Mark, a Russian who fled to Thailand with his boyfriend after an initial draft announcement in September 2022 and asked that TIME use a pseudonym for security. “We understood we can’t go back because anyone can be called to the army and just die in the war.”

As a result, the number of Russians choosing to stay in Thailand long-term is soaring. Beyond 90-day visas upon arrival, thousands are applying for one-year business or education visas. Arnold, who asked that TIME use only one name for fear of reprisals in his homeland, moved from Moscow to the Thai resort town of Hua Hin permanently last year and has noticed an increase in what are colloquially termed “ relocants ” fleeing the “various negative things which are going on back home.”

The affluent are acquiring luxury cars and yachts and renting or purchasing villas. Phuket’s plush Laguna beachfront complex of villas, ornamental lake, and 18-hole golf course is now dubbed “Little Moscow,” says Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, advisory chairman to Phuket’s Tourist Association. Over half of all residents across its 1,000 acres are Russian, according to the Laguna real estate management office, which employs two native Russian speakers to deal with the shifting demographic. Across Phuket, real estate prices have bumped some 20% owing to the Russian influx, says Bhummikitti.

The incursion has also increased pressure on Akachai’s Tourist Police, which has only 60 officers to assist the 2,000-odd regular Royal Thai Police and 60 dedicated Immigration Police across both Phuket and the larger adjacent province of Pha Nga. In addition to swelling tourist numbers, whereas 60% of tourists before the pandemic traveled on tour groups with guides and agents on hand to smooth any problems, today, 70% are independent travelers, which means the Tourist Police are increasingly called to mediate all manner of conflicts.

Relaxed entry requirements have also attracted a criminal element. In early February, Phuket police arrested five suspected Russian gangsters for the kidnapping and extortion of over $800,000 in cryptocurrency from a Belarussian couple that Akachai says was retaliation for a financial dispute back home. And last month, a 42-year-old Russian man was found stabbed to death in a rented house that was being used as a cannabis farm. The chief suspect is a Tajikistani man who fled Thailand for Turkey just hours after the murder.

Yet Akachai says most crimes relate to illegal work involving Russians determined not to return home while the war rages but without the means to support themselves indefinitely—not least since international banking sanctions have rendered accessing savings more difficult. Many Russians have set themselves up as unofficial tour guides, car and motorbike rental services, real estate agents, hairdressers, or even sex workers, advertising online via Telegram groups.

Yet not all aspects of the phenomenon are troublesome. Other than Russians, a significant number of Ukrainians have fled their war torn nation for Thailand, potentially creating a tinderbox atmosphere. But Akachai says he has not encountered a single skirmish or negative incident between the two nationalities in Phuket. Yury Rozhkov, 46, a Russian national who works for a travel agency in Bangkok, says he regularly meets Ukrainians staying in his apartment building and relations are nothing but cordial.

“They understand it’s Putin, it’s not Russia, Russian people are different,” he says. “And I’m sure Russians who have money to travel to Thailand do not support Putin and the war in Ukraine.”

In Hua Hin, Arnold is a member of a Russian-language Telegram group with more than 4,500 members from across the former Soviet bloc, but he says he cannot recall a single politically charged message among the 400 or so posted every day. “99.9% of discussions are where to find the best pad thai, current prices in the local market, how to rent a car, or where to get a vaccine,” he says.

Perched by the main gate of Phuket’s Laguna resort, the d’Odessa restaurant serves Ukrainian syrniki pancakes and smoked salmon croissants slathered with gold leaf. The tablet menu has options for Ukrainian, English, and Russian—and staff say the majority of clientele speak the latter. “There are many Ukrainian restaurants filled with Russians in Phuket,” says Bhummikitti.

Ultimately, both sides caught up in this senseless conflict share a desire to stay out of harm’s way by whatever means necessary. Mark is still employed by his Russian IT company thanks to an understanding boss despite remote working being strictly against company policy. Every day he fears a draft ticket or internal enquiries by higher management could spell the end to that vital paycheck. If that happens, “I will try to find a local job or another [remote] job in Russia,” he says. “I will try every way I can not to go back.”

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Write to Charlie Campbell / Phuket, Thailand at [email protected]

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I’m a Doctor. Dengue Fever Took Even Me by Surprise on Vacation.

By Deborah Heaney

Dr. Heaney is a physician in Ann Arbor, Mich.

I hate mosquitoes so much that I take my own bug repellent to parties. But in early March, on a trip with my partner to the idyllic island of Curaçao off Venezuela, I was caught off guard by insect bites after our bed-and-breakfast hosts said that mosquitoes didn’t usually appear until late summer.

Near the end of the vacation, my legs began to ache. After I couldn’t keep up with my partner on a snorkeling adventure, he pulled me from the water. My ribs felt broken, as if I’d been smashed against large boulders in the sea. Later that day came intense fever, alternating with shaking chills.

Back in Michigan — weak, nauseated and dehydrated from explosive diarrhea — I ended up in the emergency department. Tests showed worrisome white blood cell levels and abnormal liver numbers. The physician assistant who saw me was perplexed; she gave me IV fluids and medication for nausea and sent me home.

A few days later I developed itching so severe that I couldn’t sleep. A bright red rash spread over both thighs and up my lower back. My brain was foggy, and my balance was so impaired that I would have failed a sobriety test. My primary care doctor had no answers. But as my head began to clear, it occurred to me to request a dengue fever test.

Two days later, the test was positive.

Despite my training in medicine, I was blindsided. Dengue, a mosquito-borne illness, is surging through Latin America and the Caribbean, including in Puerto Rico, where a public health emergency was declared last week. This year is likely to be the worst on record, in part because of El Niño-driven temperature spikes and extreme weather linked to climate change. As temperatures rise and precipitation patterns grow more erratic, the problem will get only worse.

But neither the traveling public nor our frontline health workers are prepared. Without urgent reforms to how we educate travelers, doctors, nurses and others — as well as reforms to public health surveillance and early warning systems — we will be doomed to miss textbook cases like mine. That means those infected with dengue will miss out on timely treatment, possibly even spreading the virus to areas where it was never found before.

The dengue virus, which is primarily transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, infects up to 400 million people every year in nearly every region of the world, but it is most prevalent in Latin America, South and Southeast Asia and East Africa. Most cases are asymptomatic or, like mine, are considered mild, although the aptly nicknamed breakbone fever often doesn’t feel that way. Some 5 percent of cases progress to a severe, life-threatening disease including hemorrhagic fever.

One malicious feature of dengue is that when someone is infected a second time with a different type of the virus, the risk of severe illness is higher. A vaccine exists, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends it only for children ages 9 to 16 who had dengue before and live in places where the virus is common. That’s because, paradoxically, if you’ve never had dengue, the vaccine puts you at greater risk of severe illness your first time.

Dengue outbreaks, which, in the Americas, tend to occur every three to five years , now appear to be expanding their geographic reach as temperatures climb . The Aedes aegypti mosquito has typically had difficulty surviving and reproducing during the winter in temperate climates. But in parts of Brazil, which is experiencing a dengue emergency , the thermometer no longer dips as low in the winter as it once did, allowing the bugs to reproduce year-round. Overall, Latin America and the Caribbean have had three times the number of cases this year as reported for the same period in 2023, which was a record year. Higher temperatures are also helping the virus develop faster inside the mosquito, leading to a higher viral load and a higher probability of transmission. And mosquitoes are benefiting from standing water from rains and floods that are growing more extreme in a warming world.

As the virus spreads globally, travelers are bringing infections back to the continental United States. Based on 2024 numbers to date, this year should show a clear increase of cases here at home compared with 2023, given that the typical dengue season hasn’t even started yet. There could also be local outbreaks in places like Florida, Texas and California, which experienced small ones in the past. As Dr. Gabriela Paz-Bailey, the chief of the C.D.C.’s dengue branch, told me by email, “Increased travel to places with dengue risk could lead to more local transmission, but the risk of widespread transmission in the continental United States is low.”

But since testing is done only on a small fraction of cases, many are going uncounted. I was the one who requested that I be tested. Had I not been given a diagnosis, I would not be aware of my increased risk of severe illness if I am reinfected. Getting a diagnosis is crucial to inform those infected in areas where the Aedes mosquito lives so that the virus doesn’t spread further.

The growing risk means travelers to regions with dengue must be savvier: They can check local news and U.S. State Department advisories, bring an effective insect repellent and protective clothing and book lodging with air-conditioning or screens on the windows and doors. Though Aedes aegypti mosquitoes now live year-round in many locations and are pushing northward into new regions , thanks to climate change and other factors, there are still seasons when the risk is greater, and travelers might consider avoiding trips during those periods. Travel insurance with medical coverage may also be a useful precaution.

For medical professionals, this should be a warning. We need to start thinking about dengue as a possible diagnosis, not just a piece of textbook trivia. We should ask about recent travel when treating patients presenting with symptoms, especially symptoms not easily explained by other diagnoses.

Medical schools are gradually integrating climate change effects into curriculums . This is essential, since malaria, Lyme, West Nile and other insect-borne diseases are on the rise, as are other conditions like heat illness, asthma and allergies that are worsened by climate change. This work must accelerate, and training must include those of us who are already practicing. State medical boards should consider mandating continuing education on tropical emerging illnesses, as they do on many other pertinent topics.

After receiving my positive test result, I called the emergency department to leave a message for my previous provider about my diagnosis, assuming she had never before seen dengue. If we continue on this trajectory, I’m certain this won’t be her last case.

Deborah Heaney is a preventive, occupational and environmental health physician practicing in Ann Arbor, Mich. She also holds a master’s degree in public health.

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An earlier version of this article included an incorrect reference to the mosquitoes that spread dengue. They are members of the Aedes genus, not species.

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Passing Thru Travel

10 Visa and Passport Tips for Hassle-Free Travel 2024

Posted: March 12, 2024 | Last updated: March 12, 2024

Embarking on international travel demands meticulous planning, particularly in navigating the often complex landscape of visas and passports. This guide is your essential compendium, offering in-depth insights and strategic tips to streamline your travel documentation process. Tailored for novice and seasoned travelers, it ensures that your focus remains on the excitement of your journey rather than the nuances of bureaucracy.

1. Understanding Visa Types and Their Specific Requirements

Each visa type demands a unique set of documents and prerequisites. Tourist visas, generally the most straightforward, still require proof of return tickets, accommodation, and sometimes a detailed itinerary. Business visas may need an invitation from a host company, while student and work visas often have more stringent requirements, including proof of enrollment or employment.

Transit visas, overlooked yet crucial for certain layovers, must be considered to avoid unexpected detours. Begin your application process early, as embassies and consulates can take weeks, if not months, to process requests.

Insider’s Tip: Familiarize yourself with the different types of visas—tourist, business, transit, student, and work visas—and understand the specific requirements for each. This knowledge can significantly influence the success of your application and the smoothness of your travel plans.

2. Navigating Passport Validity and Blank Page Requirements

The overlooked detail of passport expiration can derail your travel plans. Regularly check your passport’s expiry date and renew it well in advance if necessary. Countries requiring a certain number of blank pages in your passport do so for immigration stamps. Falling short on this requirement can result in denied boarding or entry.

Keep in mind that renewal times can vary, and expedited services, while available, come with additional costs. This is a critical step in your travel preparation, so make it a priority in your planning stages.

Insider’s Tip: Ensure your passport has sufficient validity — many countries require it to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. Also, check for blank pages; some countries require a specific number for entry and exit stamps.

3. Visa Application: Timing and Documentation

Timing is everything in visa applications. Start gathering required documents—such as photographs, travel insurance, financial statements, and any necessary letters or invitations—as early as possible. Be aware of holidays and peak periods, as these can affect processing times.

Online visa applications have simplified the process for many countries, but always have hard copies of essential documents when traveling. A common pitfall is underestimating the time it takes for visa processing; each country has its own timeline, and it’s prudent to allow extra time for any unforeseen complications.

Insider’s Tip: Apply for your visa as soon as your travel dates are confirmed. Late applications can lead to stressful delays or, worse, trip cancellations.

4. Health and Vaccination Documentation

Health documentation is increasingly becoming a staple in international travel. Countries in Africa and South America, for instance, may require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination. COVID-19-related health documentation has also become a norm. Always carry a physical copy of your vaccination records and any other required health documents.

The World Health Organization (WHO) offers a standardized ‘Yellow Card’ that shows vaccination history and is recognized worldwide. Not adhering to these requirements can result in being denied entry, so it’s critical to understand and comply with these health mandates.

Insider’s Tip: Some countries require proof of vaccination against specific diseases. Keep a record of your vaccinations and check the health requirements of your destination country.

5. Understanding Visa Waiver Programs and e-Visas

Many countries have agreements allowing certain nation citizens to enter without a traditional visa. For instance, the Schengen Area in Europe allows travelers from certain countries to enter visa-free for short stays.

Similarly, e-Visas, available through online applications, offer a streamlined process for obtaining travel authorization. These digital visas save time and reduce paperwork but always confirm the specific entry requirements, as they can vary even within visa waiver programs.

Insider’s Tip: Check if the country you visit has a visa waiver program or offers e-Visas, as these can significantly simplify the travel process.

6. Dealing with Visa Denials and Appeals

A visa denial can be disheartening, but it’s not always the end of the road. Embassies usually provide reasons for denial, which you should address in subsequent applications. Some countries offer an appeal process, while others require you to wait a certain period before reapplying.

Understanding the specific protocol of the country you’re applying to is crucial. Ensure your reapplication or appeal addresses all the concerns raised initially. Sometimes, seeking the assistance of a visa consultant or an immigration lawyer can provide clarity and improve your chances in complex cases.

Insider’s Tip: In case of a visa denial, understand the reasons provided and the process for an appeal or reapplication, if applicable.

7. Passport Safety and Copies

Your passport is your most valuable document when traveling abroad. Keep it secure in a hotel safe or a secure, hidden compartment in your luggage. Having copies of your passport (the page with your personal information and any relevant visa pages) is crucial in emergencies.

Store a digital copy in a secure cloud service and email a copy to yourself and a trusted contact back home. In the unfortunate event of losing your passport, these copies will be instrumental in proving your identity and facilitating the replacement process at your embassy or consulate.

Insider’s Tip: Keep your passport safe at all times and carry physical and digital copies in case of loss or theft.

8. Cultural Sensitivity and Local Laws

Cultural awareness is a sign of respect and can affect your entry into a country. Some nations have strict dress codes or norms that, if not adhered to, can lead to issues at immigration. Familiarize yourself with these aspects to avoid unintentional offenses. Additionally, understanding local laws is crucial.

For example, countries in the Middle East have stringent drug laws, and carrying certain prescription medications without proper documentation can lead to serious legal troubles.

Insider’s Tip: Research your destination’s cultural norms and local laws, as these can sometimes impact visa and entry policies.

9. Travel Insurance and Visa Requirements

Travel insurance is often a visa requirement, especially for countries in the Schengen Area. This insurance should cover medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and repatriation. Check the specific coverage requirements of your destination country and keep a copy of your insurance policy with your travel documents. Not only is it necessary for some visa applications, but it’s also a prudent safeguard against unforeseen events during your travels.

Insider’s Tip: Some countries require proof of travel insurance for visa issuance. Ensure your policy meets the minimum coverage requirements.

10. Consulate and Embassy Assistance

Embassies and consulates can assist with a range of issues — from lost passports to legal troubles. Before traveling, note the address and contact details of your country’s diplomatic missions in the destination country.

In case of an emergency, such as a lost or stolen passport, political unrest, or natural disasters, they can provide crucial support and guidance. It’s also wise to inform them of your travel plans, particularly if traveling to regions with heightened security risks.

Insider’s Tip: Know the location and contact details of your country’s embassy or consulate in your destination country. They can be invaluable in emergencies.

The Bottom Line

Successful and hassle-free travel hinges on your preparedness, especially regarding visas and passports. By following these tips, you’re paving the way for a journey of ease and enjoyment. Equip yourself with this knowledge, and step confidently into your next journey, knowing you’ve covered every essential detail.

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The post 10 Visa and Passport Tips for Hassle-Free Travel 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Eviart.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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As Thailand revels in Songkran water fights, tourist hub Samui suffers through drought

The resort island is facing days without running water, even as the country celebrates new year with water fights

A cross Thailand , people are getting ready to take to the streets for a giant water fight to mark the new year. Roads will be lined with vendors selling water pistols, businesses will put out buckets of icy water for refills and no passersby is safe.

What began as a tradition of the Songkran festival to sprinkle water on the hands of elders, in a symbol of cleansing and reverence to mark the new year, has evolved into huge water fights that draw tourists from across the world. But on the tourist resort island of Samui, the water fights and celebrations bely a long running problem: the island is parched. Residents say taps can stop running for days, causing disruption to businesses and daily life.

“The water hasn’t run for two and a half days now,” says Wachirawut Kulaphetkamthorn, who owns a barber shop in Lamai, Samui and has been unable to use his shower. “Last year, the water came every other day, but this week, it hasn’t run for 2-3 days in a row.”

“The restaurant nearby could not open the shop because there was no water.”

Wachirawut has resorted to buying five tanks of water. “I don’t have any backup plan. I think I just need to buy more water when it’s gone. I can’t do anything. I can only complain on Facebook,” he says. One local restaurant owner says he fills his tanks when the water is back on and this can usually see him through the two or three days when the taps dry up. But if the shortages last longer, he is forced to use expensive drinking water.

“The vendor next to my shop, when they don’t have water, they need to change to takeaway orders instead because there’s no water to clean the plates,” says Nat, who asked to give just his nickname. Big hotels are able to pay for private water supplies, which means tourists are unlikely to be affected and water fights will go ahead, according to Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, the president of the Tourism Association of Koh Samui. But this all adds an extra financial burden to the sector as it recovers from Covid.

Water on the island is derived from wetland areas, as well as an undersea pipeline that supplies 21,000 cubic metres of water a day, well short of the between 31,000 to 33,000 cubic metres of water needed a day, says Ratchaporn.

Poor planning has meant that infrastructure hasn’t kept up with the number of people migrating to work on the island, or the rapid development of luxury resorts, golf courses and spas that consume large volumes of water.

Ratchaporn says there are hopes a reverse osmosis system, and an additional pipe supplying water from Surat Thani will ease the problem, though, for now, the dry weather is an added problem. Thailand is currently experiencing extreme heat due to the El Niño phenomenon, which is associated with hotter, drier conditions across the region. The Thai public health ministry has warned of the risk of heatstroke during the Songkran period, as temperatures have reached record levels in some areas. Despite the risks, the government hopes this year’s Songkran festival, which marks the Thai new year, will give a much-needed boost to the tourism sector. This year’s celebrations have been extended from the usual three days to three weeks, after the festival was recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage event by Unesco. In Samui, businesses are also extending the celebrations to encourage tourists to stay longer, says Ratchaporn, offering events including orchestral concerts and foam parties – which use less water than a traditional water fight.

“It is high season and [Songkran] is also one of the cultural attractions for the period,” says Ratchaporn.

He says businesses and authorities will make sure people have a chance to splash in water – even if this brings added costs.

“Even if we don’t have water. It’s like … Christmas, no matter if you don’t have anything you will at least try to provide your family with a cookie and warm milk.”

• El Niño southern oscillation

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