Thailand further relaxes visa requirements for Europe and Scandinavia

In an effort to attract more international tourists now that the borders have opened, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says that they have relaxed the criteria for issuing the new tourist visas by allowing tourists from ‘medium risk’ countries.

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand executive director for tourism products, Thapanee Kitaphaibool, foreigners may enter Thailand with the 60-day tourist visa, which can be extended to a 90-day stay.

The requirements for this type of visa are the following:

• Bank statement providing proof of income in the last six months equivalent to THB 500,000 (USD 17,000)
• Medical insurance that covers COVID-19 with at least USD 100,000 in coverage for the entire duration of your stay
• Proof of alternative state quarantine reservation (ASQ)
• Proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR swab test taken within 72 hours prior to the flight

Meanwhile, Thailand also launched the new Special Tourist Visa, which is a visa for a 90-day stay that can be renewed twice; meaning that tourists may stay in the country for up to nine months. Initially, TAT aims to offer this type of visa to low-risk countries, but since most of the target countries in Europe and Scandinavia are categorised under ‘medium risk,’ Thai consulates have relaxed offering this visa to applicants from the aforementioned countries.

The requirements for Special Tourist Visa ar:

• Proof of income and bank account balance in the last six months equivalent to THB 500,000 (USD 17,000)
• Medical insurance that covers COVID-19 with at least USD 100,000 in coverage for the entire duration of your stay
• Proof of alternative state quarantine reservation (ASQ) for the 14-day mandatory quarantine
• Proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR swab test taken within 72 hours prior to the flight

All travellers to Thailand must undergo a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival. If a tourist test positive, he or she will be admitted to a hospital; if a tourist test negative, he or she will head to an alternative state quarantine facility for their required 14-day quarantine.

As of November 5, the ministry issued certificates of entry to 1,465 foreigners with most people approved to enter on retirement visas, Special Tourist Visa and privileged entry visas. It is best to check with our local Thai Embassy before making any travel arrangements.