“No Quarantine” Phuket Sandbox

1,258 Responses

1. Hello,
   I am not clear on whether we can travel to Thailand or not.
   Fully vaccinated Canadian passport holders but coming from Saudi Arabia via Qatar.
   Would you be so kind to clarify.
   Thank you.

   Reply

   1. Dear Alla,
      The Thai Embassy in Saudi Arabia has no power to issue a COE under Sandbox Program. If your port of departure is Saudi, you can only qualify for the COE under Qauarantine Program in Bangkok.
      Thank you.

2. Hello Rex !
   We are coming in November with my 2ys old baby and I have a question. I can’t find any information about the PCR test for him. Do I have to make one for him ? Salivary tests are ok? I try to reach the Thai embassy in Paris but no answer. Thank you so much

   Reply

   1. Dear Cassandre,
      Good day.
      Yes, RT-PCR test is still required before coming to Thailand and during your stay in Phuket or Samui Sandbox. Children below 6 years old can do salivary test instead of nasal test.
      Thank you.

3. Good morning,

   thank you for all this information and good website.
   We plan to go to Phuket via sandbox for 13 days and go to 3 differents hotels.
   We will stay 7 days in the first hotel.

   – Who is suppose to give us the SHABA ID ? The first hotel or all hotels ?

   Thank you
   Best regards
   Jeff

   Reply

   1. Dear Jeff,
      Good day.
      All the hotels within the 14-night period must provide you the SHABA ID certificate. You will submit all SHABA ID certificate to the Thai Embassy when you apply for the COE. In the COE application, you just need to state the name of the first hotel.
      Thank you.

   2. Dear Jeff,
      is it possible to enter Phuket Sandbox with one shot of BioNtech when I had Covid19 before? I Germany this means fully vaccinated.
      Thanks

   3. Dear Jannik,
      Good Day!
      AT the moment it is not clear the vaccination requirements for those who have recovered from COVID 19. I recommend for you to check with the local Thai Embassy in your current location.
      Thank you.

4. Hi Rex, great website, thanks.
   My wife and I will fly to Phuket from Switzerland this month. Are we allowed to visit a friend in Germany a few days before departure, as both countries currently qualify for the sandbox program?

   Reply

   1. Dear Bernard,
      Good day.
      Yes, the Thai Embassy in Bern will not check if you have stayed in Switzerland for 21 days or not. Just keep in mind to stay only in the low risk countries stated in the list for Phuket Sandbox eligible countries.
      Thank you.

5. Hello,

   When traveling from the U.S. to Phuket, do I need to wait 14 days after I get my second shot of the vaccine to apply for my COE or when can I start the application process for the COE? Thank you.

   Reply

   1. Dear Marc,

      Good Day!
      After you have the second dose, you may apply for the COE already. Just make sure that your flight to Thailand will depart at least 14 days after the second dose. Should you require any assistance in applying for the COE or certificate of entry, please check this page:
      https://www.siam-legal.com/other-services/certificate-of-entry-thailand.php

      Thank you.

6. Why is Saudi Arabia not an eligible country for the sandbox?
   Only 100+ cases for one day.

   Reply

   1. Dear Patrick,
      Good Day!
      The list is updated every month. I am not sure what is the data or basis of the CSSA and TAT to come up wit the list. To keep yourself updated on Thai reopening, please sign up for our Weekly Updates and you can check our sign up form on this page:
      https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/how-to-travel-to-thailand-in-2021
      Thank you.

7. When Philippines can enter this sandbox stuff?

   Reply

   1. Dear Arlene,
      Good Day!
      At the moment, the passengers coming from the Philippines are not eligible for the Sandbox program.
      To keep yourself updated, please sign up for our weekly updates on this page:
      https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/how-to-travel-to-thailand-in-2021
      Thank you.

8. Could you please explain the rule of 21 days stay in an approved country. For example, I live in an approved county (Russia) traveling to Turkey (also approved country ) for 2 weeks and then get COE from Turkey and fly to Turkey. Do I really need to stay 21 days in Turkey if I originally come there from another approved country . Please give advice

   Reply

   1. Dear Alicia,
      Good Day!
      The general rule is that you must stay 21 days from your departure country. However, if you will be coming from Russian and Turkey and you wish to get the COE in Turkey, it is better for you to contact the Thai Embassy in Ankara. I heard some reports that they will not issued the COE under Phuket Sandbox if you are not a long term resident. I cannot confirm if this is correct.
      Thank you.

9. WE ARE FROM PAKISTAN
   AND WE ARE FULLY VACCINATED
   CAN WE APPLY VISA?

   Reply

   1. Dear Qasim,
      Good Day!
      No, passengers from Pakistan are not eligible for the Sandbox program. You can qualify only for the Quarantine program. For more information about this, please download our guide on this link: https://www.siam-legal.com/legal-guide/how-to-enter-thailand-2021-guide.pdf
      Thank you.

10. Hi,
    Is Phuket Sandbox closing in November? Bc i am planing to travel to Phuket in November. Thanks

    Reply

    1. Dear Vy,
       Good Day!
       There is no announcement that Phuket Sandbox will close by November. You can visit https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand for updates.
       Thank you.

11. Hello,

    Do you have any information on how often does the approved countries list update. I am an American and I live in Saudi Arabia. My family and I are vaccinated; and Saudi Arabia is doing great with very low daily new COVID-19 cases.
    We want to travel in the first week of November.

    Reply

    1. Dear Serge,
       Good Day!
       The list of countries is updated every month. To keep updated, you may sign up for our weekly updates on this page:
       https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/no-quarantine-phuket-sandbox-plan
       Thank you.

12. Good afternoon Rex,

    I am a filipino citizen and would like to go to thailand. Can you please tell me if Philippines tourist are allowed to join the Phuket Sandbox by the end of November 2021?

    Reply

    1. Dear Amelia,

       Good day!
       For now, we cannot say if Philippines will be included in the Phuket Sandbox list. However, if you are fully vaccinated, you may still travel to Thailand. The quarantine has been reduced to 7 days instead of 14 days starting October 1, 2021. For updates, please visit https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-travel-restrictions-updates

       Thank you.

13. please share the updated list of countries ??

    Reply

    1. Dear Oxycam,

       Good Day!
       As of September 22, there has been new countries added to the list. For updates please visit https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-travel-restrictions-updates.

       Thank you.

14. Hi,
    When is Phuket opening up for Indian tourists?

    Reply

    1. Dear Noor,

       Good Day!
       Travellers from India who already have a valid visa and fully vaccinated, you may now apply for COE under Phuket Sandbox. You only need to stay in Phuket for 7 nights. If there is no flight to Phuket, you may also travel to Bangkok, you may quarantine for 7 days in Bangkok and then you may travel to Phuket or other provinces of Thailand.

       Thank you.

15. I am wanting to book for 7 days in Patong then 7 days in Khao Lak in April, is this allowed and what restrictions will apply please.
    I am from Australia

    Reply

    1. Dear Jennifer,

       Good Day!
       As of October 1, 2021, you may stay in Phuket for 7 nights and after which you may travel to other provinces in Thailand.
       For your guidance, you may download our PDF Guide at https://www.siam-legal.com/legal-guide/how-to-enter-thailand-2021-guide.pdf.

       Thank you.

16. Hello!
    Is it possible to enter Thailand using Phuket Sandbox (without the necessity to go on quarantine upon arrival) for the citizen of Ukraine, who has residence permit from one of EU countries from the Sandbox eligible countries’ list (and is residing in that country before travel) and is fully vaccinated?
    Thanks in advance!

    Reply

    1. Dear Rostyslav,
       Good day.
       The list of countries for Phuket Sandbox is not by nationality. It is a list of countries where Thai Embassy will be able to issue the COE under Phuket Sandbox. If your nationality is eligible for Visa Exemption or you have a Valid Thai Visa, you can qualify for Phuket Sandbox COE if you are residing now in one of the countries listed as eligible for Phuket Sandbox.
       Should you require any assistance in applying for the COE or certificate of entry, please check this page:
       https://www.siam-legal.com/other-services/certificate-of-entry-thailand.php
       Thank you.

17. Good morning Rex,
    We want to travel from the UK in early October myself and my husband are fully vaccinated my 12 year old isn’t vaccinated we are visiting Phuket for 8 days can you advise if we are required to stay the 14days quarantine period? How does this work for children who are not vaccinated?

    Reply

    1. Dear Cassandra,
       Good day.
       Your child does not need to be vaccinated. He can travel with you as long as you and your husband are fully vaccinated. You do not need to stay for 14 nights. You can stay for 8 nights in Phuket as long as you have an exit flight from Phuket to another country. We have sent you an email about our services as well.
       Thank you.

18. Hi..May i double check the Phuket Sandbox is confirmed open for foreigner traveller? becos my friend in Thailand told me currently is closed now.

    Reply

    1. Dear Brenda,
       Good day.
       As of today, August 11th, Phuket Sandbox will continue. The only travel ban is the travel from Bangkok (other parts of Thailand) to Phuket. There is no problem if you are travelling from abroad to Phuket (without transit in Bangkok of course).
       Thank you.

19. Hello Rex!
    I am a Ukrainian citizen, fully vaccinated in the UK and planning to fly to Phuket in September form Russia, direct flight. Will I need to quarantine, or will I be exempt?

    Reply

    1. Dear Anastassia,
       Good day.
       Yes, you can use visa exemption to enter Thailand through Phuket Sandbox as long as you are staying in Russia for 21 days before your trip and you have been fully vaccinated and you have COVID insurance and COVID test before your trip.
       To purchase the correct COVID 19 insurance, please check this page: https://www.siam-legal.com/axa-insurance
       Thank you.

20. Hello. Is possible after 14 days in Phuket rent a car and go to Pattaya?

    Thank you.

    Reply

    1. Dear Michel,
       Yes, it is allowed to leave Phuket.For entry to Pattaya, I do not have the latest entry requirement. I believe it is possible to enter Pattaya at this time.
       Thank you.

21. We are a non married couple planing to go back to thailand via the Phuket Sandbox. Can we Stay in the Same room in the SHA+ hotel?
    And if possible, can we do it if not arriving to Phuket on same flight? Maybe with one day difference.

    Thanks,
    Nic

    Reply

    1. Dear Nic,
       Yes, you can stay in the same SHA+ hotel. And no, you will not be able to stay in the same room, because there is a nightly check, you must have the same starting date and end date if you want to stay in the same room.
       Thank you.

22. Hi Rex,

    I have 3 questions:
    1: I live in Germany now , is it allowed I start my flight from Paris, France?
    2: Is it allowed to fly to BKK and then transfer to Phuket? Because I see not too much flight to Phuket now.
    3: Is it allowed stay first 7 days in Phuket and next 7 days in Koh samui? Then how should I go to Koh samui? The flight is open for us or only for locals?
    Thanks!

    Reply

    1. Dear Bin,
       Good day. Please see my answers below:
       -If you start your flight in Paris, you apply for COE at Thai Embassy Paris and provide an address in France.
       -If you transit in Bangkok, you must quarantine in Bangkok for 14 nights before you can fly to Phuket. Please book using Qatar, Emirates or Singapore Airlines.
       -Yes, you can stay 7 nights in Phuket and 7 nights in Samui.
       Thank you.

23. Hi,

    I’m Traveling from HK, if there is no direct flight from Hk to Phuket, I can take connect flight at Singapore or Vietnam in order to enter Phuket?

    Thanks!
    Cathy

    Reply

    1. Dear Cathy,
       For the month of August, CX and UO are flying to Phuket. Yes, you can also fly with SQ.
       Thank you.

24. When will vaccinated ukrainians be allowed to travel for Phuket sandbox? We have cases less than 1000 per day. All Europ open for us, but Thailand – no

    Reply

    1. Dear Vadim,
       At the moment we cannot tell you. Maybe in the coming months. Please check with us again after 1 or 2 months.
       Thank you.

25. Hi,
    Can we buy airline ticket separately, buy international ticket to BKK, then domestic ticket and go from BKK to PHUKET to go to Phuket?

    Reply

    1. Dear Miki,
       Definitely no. If you want to qualify for Phuket Sandbox, please only buy flight to Phuket with transit in Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Tel Aviv or Singapore.
       Thank you.

26. Dear Rex,

    I am a Thai citizen returning from overseas, do I need to have been in one of approved country for 21 days or more? or I just need to depart from an approved country to be eligible for COE to phuket sandbox?

    Reply

    1. Dear KP,
       As long as you have never been to high risk countries in the last 14 days, yes, you do not need to stay 21 days in the country where you are applying for COE. This is only applicable for Thais and returning expats. For example you fly from Thailand to US and stay in US for 10 days, then return to Thailand only. You cannot do Thailand-US-Caribbean-USA-Thailand.
       Thank you.

27. Can someone still get a Non Immigrant O visa after they enter Thailand using the Sandbox program?

    Reply

    1. Dear Shereen,
       Yes, it is still possible. You can change it to Non Immigrant O visa based on retirement or based on Thai wife as long as you have more than 15 days remaining in your visa at the time of application.
       Thank you.

28. With AXA Thailand insurance, can I have a refund if for some reason I’m unable to board my flight and not arrive in Thailand?

    Reply

    1. Dear Tony,
       You can ask for refund if the flight was cancelled and the COE was rejected. But the insurance must be cancelled before the start date.
       Thank you.

29. When will vaccinated Indians be allowed to travel for Phuket sandbox

    Reply

    1. Dear Karan,
       When you have less than 1,000 cases per day.
       Thank you.

30. Hi,

    I am travelling from the UAE to Phuket for the sandbox, and I only applied on 03/08/2021 for the COE. Will it be approved before my flight which is on 06/08/2021 at 12 am in the morning (so 12 pm on 05/08/2021)? Thanks

    Reply

    1. Dear Graham,
       Good day.
       The application for COE in Dubai and Abu Dhabi usually take 3 to 5 business days total. I recommend for you to call the consulate or embassy on August 4th to make sure it is pre-approved. And call them again on August 5th to make sure it gets final approval.
       Thank you.

31. Hi- I have 2 questions, please help me answer 🙂

    1) Fully vaccinated, does that mean having 1 shot of aztra zeneca is ok or does it have to be 2?
    2) It seems like there are no direct flight from Japan to Phuket, do I have to buy a ticket that is connect, or can i buy a ticket separately and fly domestic?

    Reply

    1. Dear Miki,
       Fully vaccinate means one dosage of Janssen or 2 doses of Pfixer/BioNTech, AstrZeneca and other vaccines. If you have been vaccinated, I am sure your health officer will inform you if you need second dose or not.
       You can buy a ticket with Cathay or Singapore Airlines.
       Thank you.

32. Hi Rex

    We are struggling to get the COE issued from the Thai consulate in Hong Kong for a planned 2 week holiday to Phuket later this month. They have said that the evidence of our travel insurance provided by Cathay Pacific is not sufficient as it does not explicitly state our names). However, it meets all of the published official requirements – we have the insurance as we are covered by it with our flight tickets (I sent them the docs with our COE applications), it specifically covers Covid-19 and that cover exceeds USD 100k medical expenses.

    In a phone call today the person at the consulate has now also said there is another criteria we have to meet and that is that the insurance cover must be up to 45 days (even though we are only staying 14 nights). The excessive bureaucracy is extremely frustrating !

    Is there another government department that we can contact to resolve this as dealing with the local consulate is very challenging?

    Reply

    1. Dear Iain,
       Good day.
       To purchase the correct COVID 19 insurance, please check this page: https://www.siam-legal.com/axa-insurance
       Thank you.

33. What is the process for a vaccinated person returning to Thailand with a current work visa? Do they need to follow all the same steps as a tourist or do they have different guidelines for people who own a business, specificall in Phuket?

    Reply

    1. Dear Greg,
       Yes, the same process is required. You need to get a COE or Certificate of Entry. You need to have Sandbox Hotel booking for 14 nights, prepaid COVID tests in Phuket and the COVID Insurance.
       Should you require any assistance in applying for the COE or certificate of entry, please check this page:
       https://www.siam-legal.com/other-services/certificate-of-entry-thailand.php
       Thank you.

34. Good day. I am a Malaysian I would like to join the Phuket Sandbox. I noticed Malaysia is not on the list. Why is it so? Any chance of including Malaysia in the very near future? What would you advise me to do so that I can join the Phuket sandbox?

    Reply

    1. Dear Lee,
       The Thai Embassy in Malaysia does not issued COE for Phuket Sandbox. They will only issue COE for Quarantine. Malaysia may be allowed to get COE for Phuket Sandbox perhaps end of 2021 when the number of COVID cases in Malaysia will be below 1,000 per day.
       Should you require any assistance in applying for the COE or certificate of entry, please check this page:
       https://www.siam-legal.com/other-services/certificate-of-entry-thailand.php
       Thank you.

35. Hello, where do I pay for the PCR tests?

    Reply

    1. Dear Jan,
       You can visit this website: https://www.thailandpsas.com/
       Thank you.

36. Excellent website – thank you!

    Form T.8 requires information on all countries where you have been in the last 14 days.

    Is it OK if it is more than one country as long as both countries are on the approved COE list?

    Reply

    1. Dear Charlie,
       Yes, you have to fill it out honestly. You do not need to include your transit country.
       Thank you.

37. Hello
    I’ll enter Phuket Sandbox in the end of August. My gf (thai citizen, lives in Saraburi) and will fly also to Phuket after my negative test. What are requirements for her to come? She got already one dose of Astra. Does she need insurance? Pcr-test before coming?

    Reply

    1. Dear Pepe,
       The trip to Phuket from other provinces in Thailand is not allowed until August 16th. Please check again with us on that date if there is any update.
       Thank you.

38. Hello!
    I was told that if a traveler is tested positive on flight arrival in Phuket, everybody will end up in a quarantine center… Can you confirme that?
    Thanks!

    Reply

    1. Dear Joseph,
       Not the whole flight. Only few passengers who are in close contact with the passenger who tested positive. Or if that person is part of your travel group.
       Thank you.

39. Hi,
    Where can I find the PCR test requirements for vaccinated adults and for children above and under 6?
    Thanks

    Reply

    1. Dear Shiva,
       For COVID 19 test in Phuket, please go to this website: https://www.thailandpsas.com/
       Thank you.

40. Hello Rex,
    Me & my wife planning to visit Phuket in September, we are fully Vaccinated since 2 months & we have Thailand visa, if we came and stayed in SHA+ hotels we most quarantined for 14 days ?
    Plus we are from Iraq (not listed country) above.
    Thanks.

    Reply

    1. Dear Hussein,
       If you are in Iraq right now, you cannot use Phuket Sandbox. You must apply for the Visa and COE under Alternative Quarantine. Please refer to this page:
       https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/how-to-travel-to-thailand-in-2021
       Thank you.

41. Can British citizens enter Phuket on the Sandbox Program during December 2021,without going into 14 day quarantine with flights which originate out of Johannesburg,South Africa via Singapore directly into Phuket. We’re owners of time share at Kata Rocks which is SHA+ accredited

    Reply

    1. Dear Daryl,
       Good day.
       If your flight will depart from South Africa, you cannot apply for COE under Phuket Sandbox.
       If you want Phuket Sandbox, your flight must originate from UK to Phuket.
       Thank you.

42. Just a quick question, What if you are a fully vaccinated Australian citizen but travelling from PNG where I work. Do I need to quarantine in Phuket.

    Reply

    1. Dear Stephen,
       If your port of departure is PNG, you do not qualify for Phuket Sandbox. You can enter Phuket under Alternative Quarantine only.
       Should you require any assistance in applying for the COE or certificate of entry, please check this page:
       https://www.siam-legal.com/other-services/certificate-of-entry-thailand.php
       Thank you.

43. Does Maldivian Citizen Vaccinated qualify for Phuket Sandbox now?

    Reply

    1. Dear Ibrahim,
       I regret to inform you that Maldives and Sri Lanka are not qualified for Phuket Sandbox. You must travel to Thailand arriving in Bangkok and you must undergo quarantine for 14 nights.
       Thank you.

44. Hello Rex – We have been double vaccinated with 1st dose of Pfizer and 2nd dose of Moderna. This is accepted in Canada, but I’m wondering if Thailand would accept mixed doses for entry to Phuket?

    Reply

    1. Dear Tom,
       Good day.
       At the moment the Ministry of Public Health or MOPH in Thailand does not accept this for COE or Certificate of Entry application.
       Thank you.

45. How do I pay for the Covid tests before applying for a Certificate of Entry and how many do I have to take?

    Reply

    1. Dear Jac,
       Good day.
       For COVID test appointments and payments, please go to this website:
       https://www.thailandpsas.com/
       Thank you.

46. Hello, Rex!
    Could you please specify, is it possible to visit Phuket or Samui if we don’t have an approved vaccine, but we are ready to stay on the 14-days quarantine on the island? We are Russians.
    Thank you for your help!

    Reply

    1. Dear Julia,
       Yes, you can travel to Bangkok first and quarantine for 14 nights. After you completed the quarantine, you may be able to travel to Phuket, Samui and other parts of Thailand.
       Thank you.

47. Does Mexican Citizen Vaccinated qualify for Phuket Sandbox?
    Will the list change in the future?
    is there any way to be updated about the list? like a mailing list with latest news?

    Reply

    1. Dear Jaime,
       The list is updated every 15 days. I do not think that Mexico will be included in that list very soon. Also, you will need a TR visa in order to qualify for the Phuket Sandbox. You need the TR visa and COE.
       Thank you.

48. Why does Canada have an asterisk next to it (*)?

    Reply

    1. Dear Louise,
       It means your country was added to the list because the Tourism Office added your country.
       Thank you.

49. For children UNDER 18 years old, do we also need to book and pay for the Covid Tests on Days 1, 6 & 13?

    Thanks

    Reply

    1. Dear Michael,
       Yes, children are also included and the fee for the PCR test may be lower for the children.
       Thank you.

50. Do you need to complete the COE for travellers under 18 year old if they are travelling with the fully vaccinated parents?

    Reply

    1. Dear Michael,
       Yes, you need a COE for the children. When you fill out the section for the vaccination, please provide the vaccination information of the parent who is travelling with the children and attach the copy of vaccination card/certificate, passport of parent, copy of birth certificate and flight booking showing the name of the parent and child.
       Thank you.

51. I was asking if I can travel to Phuket without quarantine in August Thank you

    Reply

    1. Dear Abdul,
       Please check this page as your guide. I am sure your question will be answered if you just follow these steps:
       https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/phuket-sandbox-guide-travel-to-thailand-without-quarantine
       Thank you.

52. Dear Rex,
    How do I pay for the PCR test I need to take on arrival? And also where do I pay for the PCR tests on day 6 and day 12 taking in my SHA Plus hotel?
    What is the cost for each PCR test?

    Is the PCR tests included in the cost of the COE?

    Thank you.

    Best Regards
    Lars

    Reply

    1. Dear Lars,
       Please check this page to book your RT PCR test in Phuket:
       https://www.thailandpsas.com/
       Thank you.

    2. Hi Rex, I am planning to travel to Phuket from Singapore in mid August and stay for required 14 days at SHA+ Hotel. Would I then be able to fly to Bangkok thereafter? Any lockdown barring travellers from other province.

       thank you and regards.
       Chandra

    3. Dear Chandra,
       People in Phuket who are ‘Phuket Sandboxer” can leave Phuket to another province but the problem right now is that, no flights are available.
       Thank you.

53. Hello,
    when will the list of countries be reviewed again ?

    Reply

    1. Dear Jason,
       Good day.
       Normally it is updated every 15 days.
       Thank you.

54. A quick question, I want to travel from Singapore for 7 days, then go to China. However, there is no direct flight to China. Can I transit from other airports in Thailand?

    Reply

    1. Dear FU,
       No, you must fly out of Phuket to Singapore or Hong Kong before flying to China. You cannot use Bangkok since you cannot travel to Bangkok from Phuket.
       Thank you.

55. Hi, I read that travellers were able to be placed in a holding room at Bkk while waiting for transit to Phuket. Is this correct?

    Reply

    1. Dear James,
       This is only applicable for Samui Sandbox using two flights of Bangkok Airways. This is not applicable for Phuket Sandbox.
       Thank you.

56. I currently hold a US passport and am on a tourist visa in the Philippines.
    Can I use the Phuket Sandbox?
    Appreciated

    Reply

    1. Dear Craig,
       Good day.
       The Thai Embassy in Makati does not issue a COE or Certificate of Entry for Phuket or Samui Sandbox. They can only issue a COE for Quarantine. You can quarantine in Bangkok or Phuket in the comfort of your quarantine hotel room for 15 days.
       Thank you.

57. Dear Rex,

    Is it correct that starting from the 1st of August, there is no 14 days stay requirement, but 7 days stay? On Phuket before you can travel elsewhere.

    While you arrive in Phuket, you need to get a PCR test on arrival. What if this test is positive? Do I need to stay at my SHA Plus hotel, hospital or where do I have to be in quarantine?

    Best Regards
    Lars

    Reply

    1. Dear Lars,
       Good day.
       It is correct that in August, you can travel to other “sealed routes” after staying for 7 nights in Phuket. This includes Phang Nga, Krabi and Samui. If you tested positive upon arrival, you will be taken to the hospital or isolated in a quarantine hotel. Some SHA+ hotels are also quarantine hotels. If your SHA+ hotel does not have quarantine rooms, you need to book a new quarantine room in another hotel.
       Thank you.

58. How do we pay for the COVID test before we apply for the COE? Is there a recommendation for this?

    Reply

    1. Dear Colin,
       Good day.
       If you arrive on or after August 1st, you can book it on this website:
       https://www.thailandpsas.com/
       Thank you.

59. Is the maximum stay 60 days on the Tourist Visa or is there a way to extend it?

    Reply

    1. Dear Travis,
       Good day.
       Once you have arrived in Thailand and stayed for 45 days to 50 days, you can go to the local immigration office and apply for the 30-day normal extension or the 60-day COVID extension for a fee of 1900 THB.
       Thank you.

60. Hi Rex
    I will be vaccinated in 13th Aug.(in korea pfeizer fully)
    Wanna go to puket in 17th Aug.(NOT ENOUGH TWO WEEKS)
    If you wanna quarantine, can I have quarantine in puket?

    Reply

    1. Dear Charley,
       Yes, if your flight lands in Phuket (no transit in Bangkok), yes, you can quarantine in Phuket for 15 days in your room only. Please note that there is limited number of Quarantine Hotels in Phuket now because most hotel are doing the Phuket Sandbox.
       Thank you.

61. Hi.
    Am trying to work through the Samui Sandbox policies:

    (1) Are there “approved” airlines that can connect to the PG flights, or is any airline okay as long as the “sealed” PG flights are ticketed?
    (2) What about long transit times at Suwwanaphul? There is a Japan Airline flight that arrives at 11PM and would require 13 hour layover at Suwwanaphum. The QATAR Airway flight now requires 23 hour layover

    Thanks!

    Reply

    1. Dear James,
       Good day.
       KLM is one of those airlines. I believe that Etihad also has codeshare with PG. Just make sure your ticket includes one of the two daily flights to Samui.
       The flight to Samui is lunch time, you can get a flight with Qatar arriving in Bangkok at around 7am or 8am. if you get a flight that arrives at 1PM, you can take the 5pm Bangkok Airways. You cannot transit more than 6 hours in Bangkok.
       Thank you.

62. Hi Rex
    Is there an option to input a one way flight when you have to upload your flight/travel details for the COE final stage.
    I’m on a retirement visa and my girlfriend is Thai, so we will be staying in Thailand long-term.
    Thanks

    Reply

    1. Dear Martin,
       Good day.
       Yes, if you have a valid visa in Thailand, you can upload a one-way flight. Just make sure that your SHA+ hotel booking is at least 14 nights. You can prepay the COVID test to your hotel or on this page:
       https://www.thailandpsas.com/
       Thank you.

63. How can we prepay for our PCR tests before going to Phuket please?

    Reply

    1. Dear Angela,
       You can do it directly to your SHA+ hotel or you can do it by visiting this page:
       https://www.thailandpsas.com/
       Thank you.

64. Is the johnson vaccine recognised for the sandbox?

    Reply

    1. Dear Steve,
       Yes, it is recognised. Should you require any assistance in applying for the COE or certificate of entry for Phuket Sandbox, please check this page:
       https://www.siam-legal.com/other-services/certificate-of-entry-thailand.php
       Thank you.

65. Hi Rex,

    I live and work in Phuket and I’m planning a trip back to the UK. As a registered resident here with my own home, do I still need to book a SHA+ Hotel when I return? If so, is it a mandatory requirement to spend the night there?

    And can you provide more details on the “Pre-paid RT-PCR COVID 19 tests in Phuket”. Does this take place at the hotel? If so, on which days?

    Thanks in advance,
    Danny

    Reply

    1. Dear Danny,
       Good day.
       Yes, you need to book 14-night stay in an SHA+ Hotel as we stated in our page or on this article/page. There will be a nightly check in your room.
       For the pre-paid COVID test, you may check this page: https://www.thailandpsas.com/
       Thank you.

66. After completing the Sandbox period, can I travel to Bangkok? Then can I fly from Bangkok to my home country?

    Mark (USA)

    Reply

    1. Dear Mark,
       Yes, after completing 14-night stay in Phuket, you may travel to Bangkok and stay for a few days before you leave Thailand from Bangkok.
       Thank you.

67. Hi Rex,

    Will a mix of recognized vaccines (e.g. First dose AstraZeneca, second dose Pfizer) be recognized as being fully vaccinated or do both vaccinations need to be from the same company? In case it is not accepected yet, are there any ambitions to change this soon against the background that a combination of vector and mRNA vaccinations leads to higher level of protection?

    Many thanks and kind regards,

    Michael

    Reply

    1. Dear Michael,
       Good day.
       As of today, July 22nd, it is not recognised by the Thai Embassies and Consulates processing and issuing the COEs.
       Thank you.

68. Hello, why do Kazakhstan travelers can not enjoy the Phuket sandbox? For example, Russia, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan are able to enjoy it. Our epidemiological situation is much better than those countries. Many people are vaccinated by local, Chinese, UAE, and Russian vaccines.

    Reply

    1. Dear Tima,
       I would recommend for you to contact the Ministry of Public Health and the Tourism Authority of Thailand who came up with the approved list.
       Thank you.

69. Hello ,
    do we have to be vaccinated of a specific company like Pfizer or AstraZeneca, ….. ? do you agree the china’s vaccines like Sinovac, Sinopharm and CanSino ?

    Reply

    1. Dear Abdelhay,
       Good day.
       Both Sinovac and Sinophram vaccines are acceptable for the Phuket Sandbox COE application.
       Thank you.

70. Thank you Rex for the great website and info!
    I am fully vaccinated and a resident in Hong Kong. I plan to fly to UK with my British passport and stay few days before travelling to Phuket. Do I elect embassy in UK or Hong Kong to apply for the COE?

    Reply

    1. Dear Ken,
       Good day.
       You will apply for the COE at the Thai Embassy in London since your flight will originate from London.
       Should you require any assistance in applying for the COE or certificate of entry, please check this page:
       https://www.siam-legal.com/other-services/certificate-of-entry-thailand.php
       Thank you.

71. Hi. If I am in Sumui under the Sandbox program, can a guest join me from Bangkok as long as he is a registered guest of the hotel?

    Also, what exactly are the “sealed routes” in Samui that we are resticted to while in the program

    Reply

    1. Dear Joe,
       Good day.
       Due to current lockdown for Bangkok, that person can only travel to Phuket or Samui Sandbox if that person is vaccinated and provides a COVID RT PCR test.
       Thank you.

72. I have lived in the UK for half a year and if I set out from the UK but I have visited other countries such as iceland 14 days before my plane to Phuket Island, is it Okay for me to entering Phuket Island? Thank you.

    Reply

    1. Dear Ling,
       Due to the COE application requiring for you to apply for the COE in the country where your flight to Phuket will originate, it would mean you must apply for COE in Iceland. The question right now is, can you get it in Iceland? Perhaps it is better for you can just fly from UK to Phuket and cancel your Iceland trip or postpone it to a later date.
       Thank you.

73. Hello,
    I’m a fully vaccinated Brazilian living in Canada. In September I’m flying to the US and will stay 3 days there for a company gathering and then will fly from the US to Thailand. Can I apply for the Sandbox program?

    I saw the COE and the Health Insurance is based on the country of Departure. Will I be ok putting US as I will be there for just 3 days before travelling?

    Reply

    1. Dear Felipe,
       Good day.
       It must be the US. You will also apply for the COE in the US through the Thai Embassy or Consulates in the US. Having 3 days in the US is not enough to get COE. We recommend that if you really want to avail Phuket Sandbox, you must either do the following:
       1. Travel from Canada to Phuket and do not go to the US anymore.
       2. You stay in the US for at least 21 days and travel to Thailand.
       Thank you.

74. I am from India I want to visit in Thailand as a tourist for 8days in August 2021 .what requirements need to visit Thailand and tell me all procedure briefly because it’s my first time.i don’t want any problem in my tour.

    Reply

    1. Dear Manjeet,
       The application and issuance of COE in India has been suspended therefore you cannot travel to Thailand.
       Thank you.

75. Hello im staying in phuket for 10 day and i came to phuket at 15/7/2021 and i will return my country at 25/7/2021 .. my second test covid-19 is in 22/7/2021 So do i need to make third test for the flight 25/7/2021 ?Or i can make the medical certificate in 22/7/2021 and i can go to my flight? Please answer me fast as you can

    Reply

    1. Dear Mohamed,
       If the country where you will travel requires a COVID test within a specific time period before your flight, you can do another test from the accredited clinic or test centers in Phuket. You must check what is the requirement of the country where you are flying after Phuket.
       Thank you.

76. What do the asterisks mean on the list of countries? If I come from a low risk country but have a self-transfer in a high risk, will I be denied entry or required to do quarantine?

    Reply

    1. Dear Steve,
       Good day.
       The list of airlines accredited to arrive in Phuket are all in low and medium risk countries. Which airline are you using? Perhaps you have to switch to Qatar Airways or Singapore Airlines.
       Thank you.

77. Dear Rex,
    I will travel to Phuket in two days. Is it still possible for my girlfriend – living in Phang Nga province – to enter Phuket on the land way? She is not vaccinated but can prove to be tested negative for Covid.

    KR,
    Oliver

    Reply

    1. Dear Oliver,
       The current restriction states that travelers from all provinces to Phuket must be vaccinated and does not have COVID.
       Thank you.

78. Hello,
    I am contacting from Mongolia. We are planning to visit Phuket in future.
    Can you please explain about Covid-19 insurance ? Is travel insurance $ 100,000 per person? If someone’s PCR test will be positive, how many days quarantined at hotel ? Is there confirm for Delta Virus ?

    Thanks

    Reply

    1. Dear Jane,
       Good day.
       To learn more about the COVID insurance, please check this page:
       https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/axa-covid-19-insurance-for-foreigners
       If you tested positive, upon arrival or during your stay, you will be taken to the hospital and not hotel.
       Thank you.

79. Can I visit Phuket under the Sand Box scheme if I have traveled to other CCSA approved countries in the last 21 days.

    Reply

    1. Dear Husain,
       Good day.
       It depends on the Thai Embassy that is processing your COE. Some embassies will require that you have been staying in that country for 21 days and some Thai embassies, they would not check it. However, the airline might check it and the officer upon arrival might check it also, then the officer will decide if you go to quarantine or not.
       Thank you.

80. Hi Rex,

    Do you counted as fully vaccinated with one Asta Zeneca and one Modena/Pfizer to qualify for Samui Plus or Phuket Sandbox?

    Back home its quite standard to mix the both of them. How is it in Thailand?

    Also how can you certify that you received one Astra shot in Thailand, so I can get just one more shot of Modena/Pfizer in Europe before I travel back to Thailand

    Reply

    1. Dear Lars,
       At the moment, July 22, it is not considered fully vaccinated as per COE application is concerned. Right now, COE applications are approved based on having full vaccination of the same vaccine brand.
       Thank you.

81. What if I transit through a country that’s not in the lists to phuket.

    Reply

    1. Dear Daniel,
       The approved airlines landing in Phuket are all transiting in approved countries. Which airline are you flying with?
       Thank you.

82. Hello ,

    Am traveling to Phuket on 3rd of August.
    Am staying in a villa for 4 nights with is SHA+ plus
    And can i stay in another villa or resort SHA+ plus after that.

    I couldnt find anything for 7nights accommodation for the first place am staying at .
    Coz we are a big family . Will that be acceptable and i get my COE entry.
    I can do the pcr test if needed before i move to the other resort in the 4th day if that will be required .
    Please let me know coz we booked everything and paid already and we are a big group.

    Reply

    1. Dear Fatma,
       No, it has to be minimum of 7 nights in one SHA+ accommodation and then you can move to another.
       There are almost 400 accommodations with SHA+ certification that you can choose. I am sure one of these 400 can provide you with at least 7 nights stay.
       Thank you.

83. I’m in Pattaya now, but because of the lockdown, I would like to travel to Phuket which has less restrictions. All malls, gyms, movie theaters, clubs here are closed, in Pattaya plus there’s a 9 PM to 4 AM curfew. All restaurant food is take-away, and I can’t even eat on the restaurant patio! So, there is not much to do here.
    I just finished my 14 day stay at an ASQ hotel here in Pattaya.
    If I go to Phuket, would I need to do a quarantine again? I have the ASQ certificate to state I did hotel quarantine in Pattaya.
    Would I be able to return to Pattaya or Bangkok before my departure date, or would I have to leave Thailand at that time?

    Thank you for your response,

    Reply

    1. Dear Robert,
       Yes, you can only travel to Phuket if you are fully vaccinated and you tested negative in your RT PCR COVID test.
       Thank you.

84. I have been pre-approved for the COE and I updated my flight and hotel information and submitted it for approval. However, I found out later on that I need to prepay for the PCR test from my Hotel. I booked with The Marina Phuket hotel and tried to contact them to make a payment, but I have not received any response. Also, the Thai embassy in Washington, D.C have not given me any response on the status of my application. When I check on the website it just says something like “Application still being considered”. My flight is on July 28th and I’m afraid I am running out of time. Do you have any advice on what I should do?

    Reply

    1. Dear Emmanuel,
       Good day.
       You can try to CONFIRM/EDIT TRAVEL the application and if you can still edit it, you can upload the RT PCR test receipt and save/submit your application for final approval. You can also wait for an email saying it was rejected and then you can edit the information.
       Thank you.

85. Hi Rex.
    Good day.
    Is it possible in any way that people from countries not on the list, can enter Phuket?

    Reply

    1. Dear Martin,
       Yes, it is possible that you are not a citizen of the country, as long as you live in the countries on the list. You must be flying to Thailand from the country on the list.
       Thank you.

86. First – really great that you (the author) are so good at answering everyone’s questions – thanks!

    For whatever reason, I cant see older comments so I dont know if you answered this or not. To be considered vaccinated, is it one shot or two? I know domestically, the govt says one shot of Astra or two shots of sinovac, but I dont see the rules for coming in internationally. Any idea?

    thanks

    Reply

    1. Follow-up – I called the Thai consulate. They said all international travellers have to have had both doses and had the second dose at least 14 days before arrival. So it’s off to the Bangkok ASQ for us

    2. Dear Tom,
       Yes, that is unfortunate. Should you require any assistance in applying for the COE or certificate of entry, please check this page:
       https://www.siam-legal.com/other-services/certificate-of-entry-thailand.php
       Thank you.

    3. Dear Tom,
       As of today, July 22, it is must be a vaccine of the same brand in order for you to get approval for the COE under Phuket Sandbox.
       Thank you.

87. Does a child under 6 have to have the 72 hours predeparture PCR test?

    Reply

    1. Dear Charles,
       Yes, a 6-year old child is required to have an RT PCR COVID test within 72 hours before traveling to Thailand.
       Thank you.

88. Hi, I am travelling next week to Phuket Sandbox,

    Is it necessary to have a declaration form and also a T8 form complete?

    Thanks,
    Sean

    Reply

    1. Dear Sean,
       Good day.
       You do not need to submit the declaration form anymore. You only need the T8 Health Form. You can download it on this page:
       https://www.thaiembassy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/T8new.pdf
       Thank you.

89. Hello!

    It looks like my previous message was lost.

    Do you plan to add Ukraine to countries eligible for Phuket Sandbox? We are having less than 1000 cases per day month or so.

    Reply

    1. Dear Kostiantyn,
       Good day.
       We are not the COVID 19 task force and Ministry of Public Health to decide if we will include Ukraine or not.
       Thank you.

90. Hi Rex,
    Any update on whether vaccine mixing is accepted yet?
    Thank you,
    Carly

    Reply

    1. Dear Carly,
       As of today July 22, the COE application for Phuket Sandbox will be approved only if it is the same vaccine brand.
       Thank you.

91. Due to there not being any guaranteed onward travel from Phuket, I have now cancelled my journey as the plan was to travel to other regions to see people. Can I defer my pre-paid insurance and PCR tests to a future date? I have tried to contact the insurance company by e-mail but they have not replied. I hope you can advise on this. Thank you.

    Reply

    1. Dear Ben,
       Yes, your insurance company can change the start date as long as it has not started yet. As for the payment to the hotel room and COVID tests, we recommend for you to get in touch with the hotel directly. They might only refund the fees if your COE was rejected.
       Thank you.

92. Hello.

    1. Do you plan to add Ukraine to this list? We are having <1000 new cases for a month or so, and we are not listed under allowed list.
    At the same time Russia with +25k is in list.
    How is it works?

    2. If I travel to Poland, for example (which is in list) and stay there for two weeks. Can I then fly to Thailand by Sandbox program?

    Reply

    1. Dear Kostiantyn,
       Good day.
       1. Please call the Thailand Ministry of Public Health regarding your concern about Ukraine not being listed on the list.
       2. If you travel to Poland, you need to be there fore 21 days before you can apply for COE to use for Phuket Sandbox.
       Thank you.

93. Hi – my son is 2 – does he need a COE?

    Reply

    1. Dear Alexandra,
       Good day.
       Yes, every traveler, traveling with their own passport needs to apply for a COE regardless of age.
       Thank you.

94. hi i would like to fly from Glasgow and use the phuket sand box , do i need to take a direct flight of can i do a 3 hr stop over in Dubi

    Reply

    1. Dear Joseph,
       Good day.
       Yes, you can take a flight from Glasgow to Dubai to Phuket. Please be careful, the Emirates flight from Glasgow to Dubai are usually cancelled. Maybe it is better if you take the flight London-Dubai-Phuket.
       Thank you.

95. Hi,

    We did not realise that we required a COE prior to booking our vacation to Phuket. We have applied for the COEs today, however will be flying tomorrow.

    Can you advise if we will be allowed into the country? We have all the other necessary documents, PCRs tests, vaccinations, etc.

    Many thanks,

    John

    Reply

    1. Dear John,
       COE is the first thing you need to have in mind. It is more important than any other documents. We recommend for you to call the Thai Embassy and make sure they issue it before your flight.
       Thank you.

96. We are planning to go to Phuket in September.
    I am European, my wife is Filipina working and living in Hong Kong.
    We both are fully vaccinated.

    what about the stories if we are on a flight and somebody is infected, that we all should go in quarantaine?

    Reply

    1. Dear Pascal,
       Good day.
       If you are seated within 2 to 3 rows from the person who tested positive, you need to undergo quarantine.
       Thank you.

97. Hi Rex,

    Can you give us a update about being able to leave Phuket. We are emigrating to Bangkok but will use the sandbox first to avoid quarantine. We plan to fly to Bangkok on 15th August after our 14 days but now I am reading there will be no flights? How can we get to our new home after using the sandbox?

    Reply

    1. Dear Tasha,
       Good day.
       For the month of July, there are no flights out of Bangkok to other provinces except for Phuket and Samui. It keeps changing everyday, the best thing to is check the airlines website or social media accounts.
       Thank you.

98. Hi Rex

    I plan to visit Thailand via phuket sandbox in Sept. I am fully vaccinated and will obtain all entry requirements and stay at an SHA+ hotel

    My girlfriend lives in Surin and is not vaccinated, Is she able to join me in Phuket, and if so, are there any requirements

    Thank you

    Reply

    1. Dear Kevin,
       Good day.
       Yes, she can join you in Phuket as long as she meets the entry requirements for domestic travelers: she needs to have an RT-PCR COVID 19 test before flying or traveling to Phuket. Please confirm it with your SHA+ Hotel in advance that she will be joining you.
       Should you require any assistance in applying for the COE or certificate of entry, please check this page:
       https://www.siam-legal.com/other-services/certificate-of-entry-thailand.php
       Thank you.

99. Can I fly to Phuket from BKK (I am living and working here), I have had one dose of AZ

    Reply

    1. Dear G,
       This page is for travelers from abroad to Phuket. For domestic travelers from Bangkok to Phuket, you can travel without restriction as long as you have a negative COVID test result.
       Thank you.

100. Hello, for Koh samui what is the difference between asq and sha+ So which hotel you have to stay first?? As we intend to stay more then 14 days and where do you pay for the test at the hotel?

     Reply

     1. Dear Stefan,
        Good day.
        You need to stay for the first 7 nights in a Samui Extra Plus Hotel and the remaining other nights in an SHA+ Plus Hotel in Samui, Phangan or Ko Tao. You will pay the test to the hotel or hotels depending on which day you are staying in that hotel.
        To learn more about Samui Sandbox, please check this page:
        https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/samui-plus-sandbox-travel-to-thailand-without-quarantine
        Thank you.