Thailand lifts entry ban on selected foreigners

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has lifted an entry ban on four groups of foreign nationals, as the country continues to ease travel restrictions and reopen its economy.

The easing of travel restrictions for non-Thai nationals, which took effect on August 4, does not apply to ordinary visitors, but only to select groups of foreigners, said CAAT director Chula Sukmanop.

The four groups are non-Thai nationals with a certificate of permanent residency, including their spouses and children; non-Thai nationals with work permits, including their spouses and children; non-Thai nationals permitted to enter under a special arrangement; and migrant workers whose employers are allowed to bring in workers.

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In order to be allowed to enter Thailand, each permitted foreigner must have a certificate of entry issued by a Thai embassy or consular office in their country, a health certificate to prove he or she does not carry COVID-19 as well as a health insurance policy.

Upon arriving, the visitors will also be quarantined for 14 days at state venues or alternative quarantine locations.

Meanwhile CCSA spokesman Taweesilp Visanuyothin said the CCSA is concerned about a possible second wave of the outbreak, after the country reported its first case in 70 days on August 3.

“We hope to delay [any rebound] as long as we can,” he said. “It would be even better if we have no second wave.”