The contents of this page may no longer be relevant. For updated information about traveling to Thailand, please go to: How To Travel to Thailand in 2022. To purchase your Thailand Travel Insurance please visit: https://www.siam-legal.com/axa-insurance
Latest Updates:
- The Test and Go and Sandbox programs have been removed and travelers may now enter under the No Quarantine program with fewer requirements.
- For up-to-date information and weekly updates regarding current Thailand travel restrictions, please visit the Weekly Updates for Thailand Travel Restrictions.
- Starting May 1, 2022, Thailand will have new entry requirements. To learn more about the new entry requirements, please visit: Thailand Travel Restrictions for May 1.
- YouTube Video showing you how to apply for the Thai Pass:
Instructional Video for Thailand Pass Application - For the Best COVID Insurance for Thailand Pass, we recommend AXA Thailand.
- To book your hotel in Thailand, we recommend Agoda.com
- Travelers may join our Facebook Group to ask questions and read the latest developments: https://www.facebook.com/groups/howtoenterthailand
Note: This page may no longer be relevant so please head to this page for the latest Thailand Travel Restrictions.
Fully vaccinated travelers to Phuket may qualify under the No Quarantine programs namely:
Phuket Sandbox is a program that allows foreign travelers to visit Phuket province without having to undergo quarantine. They must have a negative RT-PCR test result before they can enjoy traveling and do leisure activities throughout Phuket.
Under the Phuket Sandbox program, travelers do not need to do a mandatory quarantine but they must stay in Phuket for at least 7 nights and will then be allowed to visit other destinations in Thailand.
Who can travel to Phuket from abroad?
- Vaccinated Thai and foreign travelers from any country before traveling to Phuket
- Unvaccinated children under 18 years old traveling with vaccinated parents
- Travelers from country that are not considered as low risk
***Unvaccinated adult travelers will be required to undergo mandatory quarantine at any AQ Hotels in Phuket for 10 days.
Phuket SandBox Requirements
- Vaccine Certificate/proof of vaccination
- RT-PCR COVID 19 test before traveling to Thailand
- COVID-19 Insurance
- Thailand Pass
- Stay at SHA+ Hotel in Phuket
- Pre-paid RT-PCR COVID 19 tests in Phuket via www.thailandpsas.com
***Full vaccination at least 14 days prior to your departure to Thailand and not more than 12 months.
Important Things to Remember
- You must stay in a SHA+ accredited hotel in Phuket only.
- You must fly to Phuket from abroad. Transit in Bangkok is only allowed if your flight is a sealed flight.
- If you are staying less than 7 nights in Phuket, you must fly out of Phuket to an international destination.
- If you are staying for 7 nights/days or more in Phuket, you will then be able to travel to any domestic destination in Thailand.
If you have questions and want to get updated with the latest developments on how to travel to Thailand, you may join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/howtoenterthailand
[ctct form=”6171″ show_title=”false”]SHA+ Hotels in Phuket
Flights to Phuket
At present, certain airlines are permitted to operate commercial flights to Thailand. Airlines such as El Al Israel, Finnair, Cathay, Qatar, Emirates, Etihad, THAI, and Singapore Airlines operate flights to Phuket on a daily basis.
Transit in Bangkok is only allowed if your flight to Phuket is PG5275, PG5279 or WE8750.
TIP: If your flight to Phuket is not full, you may request the cabin crew for you to be seated two to three rows away from other passengers. Just in case one of the passengers tested positive for COVID 19 on arrival, then, you do not need to be isolated or quarantined at your own expense.
COVID 19 Insurance
With the new wave of COVID-19 in Thailand, COVID-19 Insurance is a mandatory requirement for travelers. It acts as another level of security to ensure that you can cover all costs in case you are diagnosed with COVID-19 during your stay in Thailand. It covers you for a minimum of $10,000 policy and it must cover the duration of your stay in Thailand.
You can purchase the COVID Insurance on this link:
Thailand Pass
Thailand Pass is a mandatory official document issued to Thai and Non-Thai nationals who are permitted to enter Thailand. It confirms that you meet the entry requirements as set by the Thai government and you are accepted to enter Thailand.
Thailand Pass Application Service
Siam Legal International offers foreigners and Thais who wish to enter Thailand fast and hassle-free Thailand Pass application assistance.
You can sign-up for Siam Legal Thailand Pass Application Service on the link below:
Should you have further questions or clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us back by email at [email protected] or through WhatsApp at +66 84021 9800.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will it be mandatory to stay in SHA+ hotels only? Can we stay in a friend’s house or our own condo?
No, you can only stay in SHA+ accommodation only for the first 7 nights before you can stay in private accommodation. You can book 7 nights in Phuket before you can move to other provinces of Thailand or before you can stay in private accommodation.
Would other people be allowed to visit the traveler during the initial 7-night stay?
Yes, if that person is fully vaccinated or if that person comes from Bangkok, that person must follow Phuket entry requirements for domestic travelers such as having RT-PCR COVID 19 test before traveling to Phuket.
If one wants to go out to a restaurant or a bar in the evening, do you need a guide?
No, you can move around Phuket freely. However, if you want to do other touristic activities, it is advisable to book it through an accredited SHA+ tour operator.
Do travelers still need to apply for the Thailand Pass?
Yes, anybody traveling to Thailand is still required to obtain a Thailand Pass(or visa applicable) from the Thailand Pass system. The process will take at least 5 up to 7 business days.
Do travelers have to stay in the same SHA+ hotel for the full 7 days required on arrival or is it possible to move between several hotels?
You must stay for at least 7 nights in your first SHA+ hotel in Phuket before you can move to another hotel in Phuket or other provinces.
The COVID tests, will that be in the hotel or hospital?
It will be in the designated test centers in Phuket and you must pay the COVID 19 tests before applying for Thailand. You can also book your COVID test on this page: https://www.thailandpsas.com/
1,258 Responses
Здравствуйте, гражданин Казахстана может полететь на Пхукет, если у него 1 доза ревакцинации Sinopharm и справка о том, что он переболел ковид?
Yes, you can apply for Thailand Pass at https://tp.consular.go.th/
You need to submit proof of recovery and your one vaccination.
Thank you.
Hi
Looking to fly to Phuket from Singapore in June. Am I right to say we need to pre-book our on arrival pcr tests in Phuket at https://www.thailandpsas.com/ . Is the tests going to be done in Phuket Airport? We are looking to rent a car in Airport, so can we rent and drive to our Sha EXtra + hotel on Day 1 while waiting for the PCR result?
Dear Eliss,
Good day.
Yes you are correct. You can book it on http://www.thailandpsas.com and you will take the test at Phuket airport. We recommend that you book your airport transfer from airport to the hotel using the hotel’s airport transfer service also to make sure that the airport transfer is also SHA+ certified car.
Thank you.
Dear Officer,
By referring to the flight itinerary below… We both are fully vaccinated, travelling from Australia. I purchased the below tickets with Singapore Airlines, (transit in Phuket for 2hours 40mins) before proceeding to Ko Samui, under the Ko Samui sandbox conditions, do I still need PCR Test at Phuket? Or we just have to pre-booked the PCR Test at the SHA Hotel in Ko Samui on the first day of arrival?
SQ 212 13APR SYDSIN 0755 1415 13APR
SQ 736 13APR SINHKT 1620 1710 13APR
PG 258 13APR HKTUSM 1950 2045 13APR
PG 132 23APR USMBKK 1200 1315 23APR
SQ 709 23APR BKKSIN 1530 1855 23APR
SQ 221 23APR SINSYD 2040 0615 24APR
Hope to hear from you soon,
Alex
Dear Alex,
Your flight Phuket to Samui is not a sealed flight, therefore you need to do a Test and Go in Phuket first before you can fly to Samui. or maybe you can fly Singapore to Samui instead.
Thank you.
Hi,
Do you need the Thailand Pass and a visa seperately to enter Thailand?
Thank you
Dear Jimmy,
Thailand Pass is not a visa. Thailand Pass is a permit to enter Thailand under No Quarantine or Quarantine Program. If your nationality requires a Thai visa, you need to apply for a Thai visa from the embassy and Thailand Pass separately. If you are a national of countries under visa exemption, you do not need to apply for a visa, you only need to apply for Thailand Pass.
Thank you.
Hi, my husband and I will be flying from Singapore to Phuket. Do we need to stay in Phuket for 7 nights if we do not need to fly to other part of Thailand but fly back Singapore directly from Phuket?
Dear Jan,
Yes, you can stay in Phuket for 5-7 days but you only need to have two COVID tests. If you will stay less than 5 days, you only need to do 1 COVID test.
When applying for Thailand Pass, you need to submit an exit flight.
Thank you.
I arrived in Koh Samui on Monday 14 February under the test and go program. Am I able to fly to Phuket on Sunday 20 February ?
If so , do I need to book accommodation at a SHA hotel.
I hope to fly out of Thailand later in the week.
Thank you in advance
Dear Mark,
No, since you have already completed the two COVID tests in Samui, you can travel to Phuket and there is no need to stay in SHA+ Hotel. You can stay in private residence or rental accommodation.
Thank you.
Do you need to have a covid test on day 1 and day 5 using the sandbox method?
Dear Zachary,
Yes, both Test and Go and Sandbox programs will still require COVID tests on Day 1 and Day 5.
Thank you.
My partner & I will fly from different country and arrive on Phuket island on the same day and time. Hence, are we allow to book one room under SHA+ Hotel ?
Dear Yu Jie,
Yes, you can book for the same room. You must contact directly the SHA+ Hotel to arrange this.
Thank you.
Hello
We need to know if they can travel from Phuket to koh Samui after 3 nights staying in Phuket or not ?
Taking in your consideration that we are couple fully vaccinated and holding negative PCR certificate as well – Saudi National.
Dear Mustafa,
If you are under the Phuket Sandbox Program you must first finish the 7 days stay in your SHA+ hotel before traveling to Koh Samui.
Thank you.
Hiya I am finishing my 7 day sandbox in phuket and then have onward travel within Thailand. What official release form do I need from my accommodation as proof of sandbox completion.
Dear Richard,
The release form must stated that you have completed a 7-night stay in your Hotel and you have been tested and get a negative test result. You can ask the hotel staff regarding with this release form.
Thank you.
Hi We live in Hau Hin and have a Thailand resident visa we would like to take a holiday in Phuket arriving by road we have cleared the Phuket sandbox last year and are vaccicnated for covid 2 shots can we enter by land what are the current rules?
thankyou
Dear Angela,
If you are in Hua Hin or in Thailand already, you do not need Thailand Pass to go to Phuket. You only need vaccine certificate or ATK test result.
Thank you.
I have registered for both myself and my husband and received access codes. When I check the status on line, mine shows as being reviewed but my husband’s ‘not registered’ ? Is this something I should query or because they have not yet started ti process it?
Dear Kaye,
Good day.
If you have and email with attached Thailand Pass QR code, your application is successful. There are instances that the online status is “unregistered” but it will be different when you open it on another computer. Just print out the Thailand Pass QR code that was sent to you by email You can also try to scan the QR to know what is the latest date you can arrive in Thailand.
Thank you.
Do you have to use a specific transfer company to get from the airport to the hotel? there is nothing mentioned on here but I believe there is a list?
my clients are booked with Phuket Gevali transfers will this be okay?
Or do I assume if they get the pass authorised it means the transfer will be okay ?
Dear Trish,
For both Bangkok Quarantine and Phuket Sandbox, the airport transfer is arranged by the Hotel or a company referred to you by the Hotel.
Thank you.
Hello, you mention the tip for the flight, where if you are two to three rows away from someone who tests positive, you do not need to be isolated or quaratined. What happens if you cannot sit far away from others on your flight?
What if someone near you tests positive on arrival? How does the quarantine work? Thank you!
Dear Megan,
Good day.
It will be up to the Health Officer if you will be considered as close contact or not. If you are not close contact, then it is not a problem if you tested negative upon arrival. If you are advised to isolate, you can check if you can isolate in the same hotel that you booked for.
Thank you.
Im from the uk, flying from London to Phuket with Malaysia airlines. Can i transit a through Malaysia? My stopover is 2 hours
Dear Kelly,
Yes, you can transit in Malaysia. However, you also need to check with Malaysian Airlines what are the requirements by the Malaysian authorities regarding transit in KL.
Thank you.
Hi! I am coming to Phuket Sandbox with a package for 7 days and I have a question regarding excursions around Phuket. Is island hopping around Phuket (like PhiPhi or James Bond island) allowed with SHA Plus approved operators, or do I have to stay on the island the whole 7 days?
Dear Elena,
Yes, James Bond Island is in Phang-Nga and Phi Phi is in Krabi and both are within the Sandbox areas so yes, it is possible to do these excursions.
Thank you.
Hi Rex
I was wondering what happens if you test positive at Phuket airport?
Even through your test when leaving Australia was negative.
Dear Rachel,
If you tested positive after your first test at Phuket airport, you will be isolated or quarantined until you test negative.
Thank you.
Rex.
First of all thank you for organizing my “test and go” paperwork during 16th Dec-9th Jan. It was great to see my wife again, we enjoyed every minute.
How many PCR tests are required during the 7 night sandbox stay? Also , can I connect through Bangkok coming from Amsterdam?
Much obliged.
Anthony Cowe
Dear Tony,
For the Sandbox stay, right now if you arrive in Phuket (no stop in Bangkok), the first test will be conducted at the airport and the second test (Day 5) will be in a chosen swab center. Coming from Netherlands, I suggest for you to fly via Dubai or Doha to Phuket and avoid Bangkok at any cost (you will be quarantine for 7 nights if you do so).
Thank you.
Can I do the Phuket sandbox if I am flying from Cambodia and have a connection in Singapore? I have only been in Cambodia 3 nights. Is it still okay to do the sandbox? Currently on a visa run to return to Thailand. Thank you.
Dear Sarah,
Yes, you can enter using Phuket Sandbox. There is no minimum requirement for the number of days spent in Cambodia since Phuket Sandbox is open for all countries.
Thank you.
Hi Rex,
Firstly thank you for providing this information to us.
We are currently in Phuket, after our 7 days here we were planning to go to Bangkok. We could not find information on domestic travel requirement.
Do you know if we required any other documentation?
Thank you
Dear Inka,
There are no domestic requirements to travel from Phuket to Bangkok. I suggest that you keep or print the negative test result of your RT PCR test from Day 5 and your proof of vaccination.
Thank you.
Dear Rex
I got Thailand Pass registered with the flight to Bangkok and AQ hotel in Bangkok. But I changed the flight to Phuket later and booked a sha extra plus in Phuket.
Should there be any problems if I register again a New Thailand Pass to stay in Phuket?
Thanks for your kind help
Dear Patcharaporn,
Good day.
It is alright. You can register again. You can now apply under Sandbox program. You can submit maximum of two application at the same time.
Thank you.
Hello Rex, we want to do the Koh samui sandbox on january 17th. Is it possible to stop over in Bangkok Don mueang airport or need a special flight to go to Koh samui ? Thank you
Dear Manon,
Good day.
You can do a domestic transfer in Bangkok as long as the domestic flight is one of the flights of Bangkok Airways: PG5125, PG5151 or PG5171 which is booked together in the same ticket with your international flight.
Thank you
Hello Rex,
First of all thank you for your responses to people’s questions, the answers have been most helpful.
I have registered an application for the Phuket Sandbox Programme travelling from the UK and have not yet received approval. My flight is in 2 days and I’m quite worried that it will not be approved in time. I have sent an email and also tried to the contact numbers but haven’t had a response or anyone answer my call.
It is only 3 days since I made the application. I had to leave it quite late to put in my application as I had to book flights etc first and with things changing daily due to covid restrictions I wanted to make sure that I could travel.
Regards,
James
Dear James,
Good day.
Please check this page: https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-travel-restrictions-updates
I have posted an information about checking the status for the Thailand Pass Phuket Sandbox application.
Thank you.
Coming from Germany for the Phuket Sandbox with Singapore Airlines: Can I do a stoppover holiday in Singapore?
Dear Chris,
Good day.
Yes, that is allowed. However, if you are staying for couple of days in Singapore, it means your country of departure in your Thailand Pass must be Singapore and not Germany. I also doubt that Singapore will allow tourists to enter the country. You can do a few hours transit in Singapore before Phuket.
Thank you.
We will have a France Captain fly from Paris to Phuket in Mid of Jan, he will work on a yacht around 30 days , if he fully vaccinated and after stay in SHA+ hotel 7 days ,can he go and work on the new Amer yacht in Phuket which just arrived?
Dear Chris,
Good day.
Yes, he can apply for Thailand Pass Phuket Sandbox and after 7 nights in SHA Plus+ hotel in Phuket, he can travel to any parts of Thailand or even stay on a yacht.
Thank you.
Would the below be allowed to fly to Phuket Sandbox?
Flying from Vancouver Canada but the connection to get to Phuket go through Bangkok?
Dear Doree,
The transit in Bangkok will not be allowed. You can find another flight that flies from Canada to Phuket via Europe or Middle East without transit in Bangkok
Thank you.
Good day,
I want to ask You, if we can travel to Koh Samui after staying 7 nights at Phuket SHA+ hotel and what we need there. Thank you so much
Dear Zaneta,
After you have completed your stay in Phuket, you can travel to Samui. You only need the test result of your second COVID test that was taken in Phuket.
Thank you.
Hey,
Is it still not possible to fly to Bangkok and then take a local plane to Phuket? Or is it possible that this option will be available anytime soon?
kind regards,
Peter
Dear Peter,
No, your flight to Phuket must be an international arrival and not domestic flight from Bangkok.
Thank you.
Hello Rex, as of Jan 2022 will an Australian passport holder still be granted a 30 day visa on arrival when travelling to Phuket for the Sandbox program? I know we need to provide the following, is there anything else?
Negative PCR Tests within 72 hours of departure
Travel Health insurance with COVID cover for $100,000 USD
SHA + Hotel booking for 7 nights
SHABA Certificate
Return flights booked
Pre paid PCR Tests for days 1 & 7
20,000+ Baht cash for families
Certificate of Entry (Thailand pass)
Thanks Rex! Keep up the great work.
Luke
Dear Luke,
Good day.
Yes, only those document you have listed are the ones that you need. Please check with your airline if your COVID test is within 48 hours or 72 hours before the flight.
Thank you.
Hello,
If I enter through the Phuket sandbox program, how many days do I need to stay in a SHA+ hotel? and during this stay, will I be able to travel around Phuket or must I stay quarantined in the hotel only?
Dear Mary,
Good day.
You need to stay in Sandbox Hotel in Phuket for 7 nights. Yes, you can move around Phuket during the day. You are allowed to go out of your room.
Thank you.
Will the 7 night stay be able to be split between two hotels? Or is it 7 nights in the same hotel?
Dear Isaac,
The first 7 nights under the Sandbox program must be in one hotel only.
Thank you.
Hey,
Can I change between two Sha+ hotels
In my firs 7 nights in Phuket?
3 nights at the first hotel, and 4 at the secend one
Dear Ofej,
Good day.
The whole 7 nights must be in one SHA Plus+ only.
Thank you.
Hello, now that the test and go has been cancelled is the Phuket sandbox a 5 night or 7 night stay.
Dear John,
Good day.
You can still submit an application under Test and Go and if you get approved, you will enter Thailand under Test and Go. If you want to apply for Sandbox instead, it is 7 nights in Phuket.
Thank you.
Good day,
I am flying on 25 december in the sandbox program.
Do i have to stay 5 or 7 days?
Thank you
Dear Ivan,
It will be 5 nights in Sandbox Hotel starting December 16th.
Thank you.
Hi,
We have been approved for Test and Go scheme arriving January 16th. Due to current changes in rules, will we still be able to use our passes?
Kind regards,
Georgia
Dear Georgia,
Good day.
For applicants who have already been approved under the Test & Go program, the Thailand Pass QR Code remains valid for travel into Thailand.
Thank you.
Hi,
I’ve booked a flight from Cape Town to Bangkok. However, I want to quarantine in Phuket (or somewhere else). Is it possible to book an additional flight from Bangkok to elsewhere without having to quarantine in Bangkok first?
Hi Myles,
Unfortunately you are required to quarantine in your first arrival city in Thailand. If you wish to quarantine in Phuket, please book a flight that lands direct in Phuket.
Thank you.
Good day,
I am flying in from South Africa in January, while in the sandbox program am i allowed split my 7 nights accommodation between two SHA plus hotels or do i have to stay in one SHA plus only for the 7 nights?
Thank you
Hi Maroof,
You are only allowed to stay at one SHA+ hotel for your 7 day Sandbox Program.
Thank you.
I am organizing a trip to Phuket for nine golfers in February 2022. We will be staying at Blue Canyon Golf Club, which I understand is a SHA+ hotel. Each guest will be staying at least 7 nights. 6-8 of the guests will be from the US, and several of us have flights that transit through Bangkok. As I read the instructions, we would not be able to travel to Phuket unless we change our flights to fly directly from an international airport directly to Phuket. Is this correct?
Hi William,
Yes that is correct. You must stay for 7 nights at your first port of arrival in Thailand before you are permitted to travel to your final destination.
Thank you.
Hi, I will fly to Bangkok and undergo a 10 days asq. I‘m not vaccinated. Can I fly to Phuket after the quarantine?
Hi Alexander,
Yes you will be permitted to fly to Phuket after you’ve finished your quarantine.
Thank you.
Hello, I live in Bangkok and I’m fully vaccinated. I would like to know what the requirements are to enter Phuket from Bangkok?
Hi Charles,
There are currently no restrictions for traveling in Thailand, however, if you have just came from overseas, you are required to quarantine at your first port of entry in Thailand before you are allowed to travel to your final destination. For example, if your flights lands in Phuket, you must quarantine there before you can go to Bangkok.
Thank you.
Hello, is there requirement under Phuket sandbox to stay in one country for 21 days before arriving to Phuket?
Hi Tomas,
No, you are only required to be fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by Thailand to participate in the Sandbox Program.
Thank you.
Hi!
We are traveling to Thailand in January with our two kids, 1 and 3 years old. My question is if they need to wear face masks or is there any age limit?
Thank you!
Therese
Hi Therese,
The Thai Ministry of Health do not recommend children under the age of 2 years old to wear face masks.
Thank you.
Hi,
Can a fully vaccinated passenger from Australia stay in Phuket for 3 weeks?
Thanks
Hi Denise,
Yes, Australian passport holders are visa exempted for 30 days. Please keep in mind that if you are fully vaccinated and traveling from Australia, you are exempted from quarantine but must stay one night at an AQ/SHA+ hotel to await your RT-PCR test results upon arrival.
Thank you.
My friend and are planning on travelling to Phuket together. We both have 2 COVID-19 vaccine doses. Do we need to book separate rooms at a SHA hotel or can we stay in one room?
Hi Kimberley,
No, you are allowed to stay in the same room if you are fully vaccinated and are qualified for the Test&Go and Sandbox programs.
Thank you.
Hi
I am going to turkey next week for 4 days. Istanbul 4th Nov to 8th Nov. Then returning to the London before departing for Phuket on the 13th Nov.
I’m fully vaccaniated and booked a sha hotel and have covid insurance and will get a pcr test done.
Is this OK?
Hi Aysha,
Yes you are allowed to enter Thailand through the Sandbox Program.
Thank you.
Hi
I’m Vietnamese and planning to go to India before going to Phuket.
Is is possible for me to enter Phuket if I stay in India for more than 21 days before flying to Phuket?
(I’m fully vaccinated and will take PCR test for sure)
Hi Ngoc,
Yes you are allowed to enter Thailand and is exempted from quarantine. However you must spend one night at an AQ/SHA+ hotel to await your RT-PCR test results upon arrival.
Thank you.
can we move around in phuket freely ? like malls , cafes, restaurants etc.
Hi Umair,
Yes if you are participating in the Sandbox Program. This is not the case when you are unvaccinated. You will need to do the full quarantine of 10 nights which means you will not be allowed of your hotel room.
Thank you.
Hi, I’m Thai people. My boyfriend will fly from US and he will apply for Phuket sandbox program. Can I and him stay in the same room for 7 nights. Both of us are fully vaccinated.
Hi Fern,
Yes if he is doing the Sandbox Program, you are allowed to stay with him at the AQ/SHA+ hotel.
Thank you.
hi, i am a filipino with philippine passport can I go to phuket? i m fully vaccinated and i am coming from Germany
Hi Monica,
If you have spent 21 consecutive days in Germany and are fully vaccinated for Covid-19, you are exempted from quarantine when traveling to Thailand.
Thank you.
Good day,
my country (Serbia) is not on newest list of “safe” countrys for entering Thai. But I am fully vaccinated and would go to Ko Phangan. Can it be done via Sandbox or any other way?
Hi Sasa,
Yes you are able to visit Thailand through the Sandbox Program.
Thank you.
Hi I’m traveling direct to Phuket for leisure do I need to apply for COE?
Hi Kristel,
Yes all travelers coming to Thailand as of 1 November 2021 need to receive a Thailand Pass to enter the country.
Please apply at tp.consular.go.th.
Thank you.
My boyfriend and I plan to travel to Phuket. However we would fly in from different country, can we stay in same accommodation?
Hi May,
If you are fully vaccinated and is participating in Test&Go or Sandbox Program, you are allowed to stay in the same accommodation.
Thank you.
Hello, I have read a few articles stating that Thailand has voted to eliminate the COE and is now working on some sort of new pass instead. Does that apply to Phuket sandbox ?
Hi Allen,
As of 1 November 2021, the COE system will be replaced with Thailand Pass. All travelers entering Thailand would need to apply for Thailand at tp.consular.go.th.
Thank you.
Hello,
Does the COE replace the Visa?
I am a Canadian citizen traveling from China.
thank you
Hi Peter,
No, COE and Thailand Pass is a document that permits you to enter Thailand. Canadian passport holders are visa exempted and can stay 30 days in Thailand for the purpose of tourism.
Thank you.
Hello,
I am fully vaccinated and travelling direct to Phuket with my children.
The children are unvaccinated age 4 months, 3 years, and 5 years.
What is the age requirement for PCR testing before we arrive and after we arrive?
TY
Dear Greg,
There is no age requirement for RT PCR test, which means everyone must have the RT PCR test. But for the kids they generally use a nasal or throat swab or sometimes saliva for the test sample.
Thank you.
Hi I am booked on a jetstar flight directly from Sydney to phuket and I will be staying at a sha+resort the deevana resort in patong for atleast 60.days and I have been fully vaccinated in October 2021i have a certificate for being vaccinated and will get a test 72hrs before leaving Sydney. And I am getting travel insurance for covid. Is there anything else I need to do to get through phuket international airport.
Hi Carlos,
Please check if you have a correct visa because usually tourists from visa exempted countries are only allowed a stay of 30 days. Also, to enter Thailand you would need to upload all the documents that you have to tp.consular.go.th to receive a Thailand Pass.
Thank you.
In order to apply to the sandbox program, do we just choose the option on the COE? Are there more steps in order to apply?
Dear Justin,
If you want to apply for the Phuket Sandbox Programme, you must booked first an SHA+ hotel in Phuket, COVID-19 Health Insurance and also you’ll need a proof of payment of COVID-19 testings while in the Sandbox. Afterwards you may apply for your COE and select “Sandbox Programme” in entering Thailand. I will share a link to you and I hope you might find it helpful.
https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/no-quarantine-phuket-sandbox-plan
Thank You.
Hi, do you still need two vacination to enter sandbox if you have proven certificate of that you have covered from covid-19?
Dear Esa,
You must be fully vaccinated to be eligible in Phuket Sandbox Programme.
Thank you.
Hello, so it means that we are allowed to move around Phuket freely within the first 7 days, right? We will not be “locked up” in our room? And we have to do 2 PCR tests upon arrival? Thank you.
Hi Yoan,
Yes that is correct if you are qualified for the Sandbox Program. However, if you are unvaccinated, you would need to do a full quarantine where you have to stay only in your room for 10 consecutive nights.
Thank you.
can my Thai wife visit me in my sandbox hotel in Phuket?
Dear Pol,
Yes she can, but to make sure if your Hotel allowed someone to visit please contact your Hotel to confirm.
Thank you.
is phuket sandbox open to tourists without a vaccine?
Dear Georgina,
I am pleased to inform you that the Phuket Sandbox program is only for the travelers who are fully vaccinated. But if you really want to travel directly in Phuket, you can but take note that unvaccinated travelers will be required to undergo mandatory quarantine AQ hotels in Phuket for 10 days.
Thank you
Hello, I have a United States passport and I am trying to apply for the COE Sandbox program for Phuket. I selected the visa exemption for type of permitted persons, but my application was denied. Do I need to book a flight first in order for my application to be pre-approved or approved?
Dear Jack,
Yes, you have to book your flight first because you’ll be needing that for COE requirements. But if you need any assistance to process your COE we can help you to that. You can check the link below:
https://www.siam-legal.com/other-services/certificate-of-entry-thailand.php
Than you.
I am due to goto Phuket for 12 nights in November. I am due to being staying at 3 different hotels (4 nights Karon, 3 nights elephant hills, 6 nights Khao Lak) From the info i can find we must stay at same hotel for first 7 nights?? Can anyone shed any light on this for me?
Also I heard from November 1st it will only be PCR test on arrival??
Dear Dave,
I am pleased to inform you that you must stay for at least 7 nights in your SHA+ hotel before you can move to another hotel in Phuket or other provinces. About the RT-PCR test, sorry we can’t confirm you that, as Thai government might have any changes by the end of the month. But as of now you must have RT-PCR test before travelling to Thailand, upon arrival in Phuket and and day 6 in Phuket.
Thank you.
Hi I’m going to Phuket on January 26 2022 what do I have do I’m full vacation I’m from Australia
Hi Mark,
You will need to submit all required documents to receive a Thailand Pass at tp.consular.go.th. You are also exempted from quarantine but must stay one night at an AQ/SHA+ hotel to await your RT-PCR test results upon arrival, after that you are permitted to travel anywhere in Thailand.
Can I travel to Phuket with a stopover in Istanbul for 8 nights before reaching Phuket. I read somewhere that we have to be resident in the country we are travelling from for 21 days prior to arrival in Phuket.
Hi Yasin,
To be exempted from quarantine you have to spent at least 21 consecutive days in a low-risk country prior to travel to Thailand. For your case, you are visiting Turkey which is not a low-risk country, however if you are fully vaccinated you are permitted to enter Thailand through the Sandbox Program. If you are not vaccinated, you will need to quarantine for 10 nights.
Thank you.
Hello,
we arrive on an international flight from Doha to BKK.
Our destination is Chiang Mai.
Flight is on the 20th of December.
Will it be possible to transit through BKK by then ?
Regards.
Hi Eddy,
As of Thai government policy at the moment you are required to quarantine in your first destination in Thailand before you are permitted to travel to your final destination.
Thank you.
Hi, we are singaporeans fully vaccinated, under the no quarantine program, if we are staying less than 7 days, are we allowed to move around phuket? Or must stay in hotel all the way?
Hi Huda,
If you are traveling from Singapore and is fully vaccinate you are exempted from quarantine but must stay one night at an AQ/SHA+ hotel to await the results for the PCR test you have taken upon arrival.
Thank you.
I will be travelling from a British Overseas Territory that is not included in the list of countries on the COE registration form. There is no Thai Embassy in that territory (Anguilla). I am a US passport holder, but resident in Anguilla. How can I apply to visit Thailand?
Hi Michael,
Please apply for a Thailand Pass to enter Thailand. If you are fully vaccinated you may participate in the Sandbox Program but if you are not vaccinated for Covid-19, you will need to quarantine for 10 nights upon arrival.
Thank you.
Hello. I am Japanese living in Japan and fully vaccinated now. My flight is off from Japan and transit via Kuala Lumpur to Phuket. Is it possible to use this flight route for the Sandbox Program?
Hi Rie,
Yes that is possible and you can participate in the Sandbox Program in Phuket.
Thank you.
Good day, we arrived in Phuket on October 10 and did the first PCR test on day1 and the second on day 6. According to the new rule, the 3rd test is then no longer required right? So that I can have this reimbursed?
Dear Joerg,
Yes, you may ask directly PSAS about this request for refund if you booked the tests through http://www.thailandpsas.com
Thank you.
I’m vaccinated, and I will go to phuket with my son who is 5 years old. How many days do we need to stay for the sandbox SHA+ hotel? 7 or 10 days? Must my son get the RT-PCR covid test before he takes the flight to Phuket? and also Do I need to make an appointment for him for the covid test via thailandpsas.com?
Dear Yansi,
Good day.
You only need to stay in SHA+ Hotel for 7 nights. After which, you may stay in a hotel or apartment of your choice. Both of you must have RT PCR tests before traveling to Thailand, upon arrival in Phuket and Day 6 in Phuket.
Thank you.
Hi can I visit James Bond island while in the Phuket sandbox 7 days?
Dear Alan,
Good day.
I believe you can as long as you are staying in SHA+ hotel in Phuket or Phang Nga and the tour guide is also SHA+.
Thank you.
Hello! If i understand correctly, i may take a flight from Luxembourg to London and then continue to Phuket with a direct flight to be eligible for the Sandbox Program? I’m fully vaccinated.
Dear Jay,
Good day.
Yes, you can definitely do that, as long as the flight does not stop in Bangkok before arriving in Phuket. You can also take flights with layover in Dubai, Doha or Singapore.
Thank you.
goodday!
I cannot see the list of ountries on this site
Has it been removedIhope that Netherlands is still alowed
Thank you for an answer
Dear Cees,
Good day.
Since October 1, all countries may apply for the Phuket Sandbox as long as the traveler is fully vaccinated, you booked a flight to Phuket (no stopping in Bangkok) and you have a valid visa or visa exemption.
Thank you.
Hello, we are fully vaccinated people from the US. We booked a live-on-board diving trip for November 10 to 16th.
We plan to arrive to Phuket on Nov 6th. The boat is leaving from khao lak (phang nga province). It looks like we cannot comply with mandatory stay in Phuket for 7 days. Shall we cancel our trip before it is too late?
Is there a chance restrictions would be lifted by the time of our trip?
I appreciate a response
Dear Natalia,
Good day.
As of today’s rules and regulations, you need to spend 7 nights in Phuket before you will be allowed to stay on the boat. You need to stay in an SHA+ Hotel. You can arrive to Phuket on November 1 or 2.
Thank you.
I am from the uk which as of 11th October are removing Thailand from the Red list so hopefully are December Phuket trip will take place. Can you advise how far in advance can we apply for our CoE?
Our flights are from uk – Singapore – Phuket on 3rd December
Dear Vanessa,
Good day.
You may apply for the COE for the Phuket Sandbox not earlier than 30 days before your flight of departure from the UK. Should you need any assistance in the application, please check our website: http://www.siam-legal.com/coe
Thank you.
Hi,
Just want to clarify regarding the update starting October 1, does it mean that even I’m from Philippines which was not included in the list last September can now enter Phuket without quarantine as long as I am fully vaccinated and stays at recommended hotels? Thank you!
Dear Lorraine,
Good day.
Yes, that is correct. You just have to make sure you find a flight that will arrive in Phuket from Manila, perhaps visa Singapore. Also, you need to buy COVID insurance and stay in SHA+ hotel for at least 7 nights. To purchase the correct insurance, please check this page: http://www.siam-legal.com/axa-insurance
Thank you.
I read something about “Bangkok transit program” I have a flight into Bangkok with a layover to phuket. I would not be able to take a test in Bangkok on arrival and in phuket? Or no transit through Bangkok to phuket? Fully vaccinated..
Dear T Frazier,
Yes, that transit program is available for International to International flights only. If you wish to use Phuket Sandbox, you must book a flight without stop in Bangkok.
Thank you.
After staying in Phuket for 7 nights and then Phi Phi for 7 nights, do I need a negative test to fly home?
Dear Linda,
Good day.
If you are flying home back to your country, you need to check with your airline if you need a COVID test prior to your flight.
Thank you.
I am from usa. on october 10, I will be traveling to portugal for 1 week. then fly to phuket on october 18.
the very first line says:
“Vaccinated Thai and foreign travelers from any country and you must have stayed for 21 days in that country before traveling to Phuket”
will i be allowed entry into phuket? i am traveling october 18. i will be in portugal for only 7 days.
Dear John,
Good day.
I would recommend for you to check with Thai Embassy in Lisbon. Since you are in Portugal prior to coming to Phuket, you need to apply for your COE from there. Some embassies are strict about this requirement. You will be allowed entry, but you might be asked to do the quarantine instead. Please check with the embassy in Lisbon.
Thank you.
Can I please clarify, I layover anyone just not Bangkok?
Dear Siew,
Good day.
For the Phuket Sandbox, yes you can have a transit or layover except Bangkok. It can be in Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Singapore or even Istanbul.
Thank you.
Do I read it correctly that unvaccinated can still come to Phuket, they just need to stay for 10 days instead of 7 in the designated hotels?
Confused because it also says:
Phuket SandBox Requirements:
Vaccine Certificate/proof of vaccination
…
…
…
Dear Johan,
Good day.
Unvaccinated travelers who are coming to Phuket from abroad are not entering under Phuket Sandbox. They will enter under Quarantine Program. The quarantine requirement is 10 nights in a quarantine hotel. It means they can only stay inside their rooms and not allowed to go out for 10 nights. You can go to the balcony if your room has one.
Thank you.
Hello
Me and my family, incl. 2 children, are hoping to travel to Thailand this winter. The children are still too you for vaccination, but according the current travel regulations, they are allowed to enter with vaccinated adults. So far so good 🙂
However, we have an important questions I am struggeling to find a good information to. What will then happen if one of our children would test positive during our visit? Off course, considering mild symptoms not requiring any medical treatment. Unofficial information claims they need to be isolated at a hospital for 14 days, no matter if they have symptoms or not or if they test negative before the 14 days have passed.
Thank you very much in advance for clarifying this.
Dear Eric,
Good day.
If one of the travelers tested positive you need to be isolated. The person who tested positive will stay in quarantine room if there are no symptoms. If the person has any symptoms that needs medical attention, he or she will be transferred to a hospital. Aside from the person who tested positive, the persons such as the family who had close contact will be isolated or quarantines also in a hotel room at your own expense.
Thank you.
Can my flight to Phuket have stops in other countries on the way?
Dear Rob,
Good day.
For the Phuket Sandbox, yes you can have a transit or layover at any foreign city, except Bangkok. Your transit can be in Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Singapore or even Istanbul.
Thank you.
If I am travelling with my wife and two daughters, can we all stay in same accommodation? And will the accommodation charges be per room or per person?
Dear Mihir,
Good day.
Yes, you can book for a family room at your preferred quarantine hotel if arriving in Bangkok or sandbox hotel if you arrive in Phuket. For the Phuket Sandbox, the adult parents must be fully vaccinated to avail the sandbox program.
Thank you/
What order do i go in,,,,,, to get the COE and the Thai tourist visa
Should i get the COE first or Tourist visa
also do i need a Fit To Fly Medical certificate
Thanks for any assistance
Dear John,
Good day.
If your nationality is under visa exemption and you plan to stay less than 30 days in Thailand, you can directly apply for COE and choose Visa Exemption for the permitted persons category. If your nationality needs a Thai visa or you wish to stay long than 30 days, you need to apply for the Thai Visa from Thai Embassy first and after that you may apply for the COE based on the category of your visa. You do not need Fit to Fly certificate anymore, you only need the test result of COVID 19 RT CPR test. Should you need any assistance for the COE, please let us know or visit http://www.siam-legal.com/coe
Thank you.
Do I need to book a return flight to Phuket or can I get a single ticket ?
Dear Paul,
Good day.
For the Phuket Sandbox or any COE application, if you do not have a visa and you only wish to use the visa exemption, you need to show an exit flight. So that the embassy can check and verify that your stay in Thailand is covered by your insurance. At this time, the visa exemption is back to 30 days, so you need to show an exit flight within 30 days upon arrival.
Thank you.
How to apply for refund of 3rd PCR test that is no longer necessary? There was a phone number posted at airport yesterday but I failed to get it.
Dear James,
Good day.
When you arrive at the Phuket Airport, you may ask the staff from Thailand PSAS about the refund of your third COVID test. You may also request it when you do your second COVID test at the testing center.
Thank you.
Hi!
When arriving in Phuket, do I need to stay the 7 nights in the same hotel or is allowed to move within the province (i.ex: Koh Phi Phi, Krabi)?
Thank you!!!
Dear Ricardo,
Good day.
You can land in Phuket airport and directly travel to Koh Phi Phi. You need to stay in an SHA+ Hotel and your airport to Phi Phi transfer must be arranged in advance also.
Thank you.