In October 2020, Thailand opened its borders to tourists who applied for special tourist visas (STVs), which required applicants from low-risk countries to fulfil certain requirements before being allowed to travel to the country, such as serving a government-approved quarantine for 14 days in Thailand. Since then, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has relaxed visa requirements in a bid to boost its tourism industry, including allowing tourists from medium risk areas, including Europe, to apply for STVs.
According to the TAT, foreigners may enter Thailand with either a 60-day tourist visa, which can be extended to 90 days, or with a new special tourist visa, which is for 90 days and can be renewed twice, for a total duration of about nine months. Requirements for applying for either visa include at least USD 17,000 in savings, health coverage of at least USD 100,000 and a negative Covid-19 test taken 72 hours before the flight. Tourists will also still be required to serve out a 14-day quarantine upon arriving in Thailand.
As of November 5, 2020, Thailand has allowed in 1,465 foreigners, with most people approved to enter on retirement visas, STVs or privileged entry visas. With Thailand looking to revive its tourism industry, these measures could further be relaxed in the future to reflect ongoing pandemic developments.
(Sources: Travel Daily Media; The Thaiger)
