Thailand Test & Go update: There Will be NO Pre-paid Hotel or PCR test on Day 5

The requirement for the second pre-paid PCR test on Day 5 after your arrival in Thailand will be eliminated beginning in early March. However, it will be replaced by a self-administered rapid antigen test (freely and cheaply available at any convenience store).

Furthermore, the mandatory "Covid" insurance will be reduced from $50,000 to $20,000.

The requirement for a second PCR test was imposed on February 1 due to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant in Thailand. However, the additional test, which was paid for by the traveler, as well as the requirement to stay in a certified SHA+ hotel while waiting for results, discouraged many potential visitors from planning a trip to Thailand. The Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration approved the revision of the test requirements today.

Hotel reservations will be required only for the first day while travelers await the results of their PCR test. Travelers will not be required to book a second hotel night on the fifth day after their arrival. So it's back to the same requirements as when Test & Go first launched on November 1st of last year.

The Test & Go program is one of three re-entry programs currently available for people who want or need to travel to Thailand. The Sandbox and an Alternative Quarantine program for unvaccinated travelers are the other two options. Registration for a Thailand Pass is now required for all visitors to Thailand, including Thais. The website can be found HERE.

There is no fee to apply for a Thailand Pass, so be cautious when searching the internet for options that require you to pay for an application. However, there are legitimate visa agents who will assist you in uploading the paperwork and resolving any 'wrinkles' in the system.

Land travelers will be able to enter through the borders at Nong Kai, Udon Thani, and Songkhla. This will also happen beginning in March.

In other news, the provincial color zoning system will remain unchanged, and schools will now be permitted to hold on-site classes. More information on the changes will be released this afternoon.

The main points…

• Beginning March 1, there will be no requirement for a pre-paid PCT test or SHA+ hotel accommodation on Day 5 following your arrival.
• On Day 5, you must perform your own ATK (Rapid Antigen Test).
• The requirement for a pre-paid hotel and PCR test on arrival will remain.
• Beginning March 1, the Covid insurance coverage will be reduced from $50,000 to $20,000.
• Nong Kai and Songkhla land borders will reopen on March 1.

Source: The Thaiger