india travel guidelines from thailand

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Page last updated on: 15/2/2023

This website is managed by Siam Legal International - a law firm in Thailand

Travel to Thailand from India

(Updated last April 17, 2023)

People travel to find the exotic. Many westerners find India exotic. So what do Indians find exotic?

As travel restrictions ease across the world and travel conditions return to normal, thousands of Indians are leaving their country to enjoy the tropical weather, sunny beaches, and exquisite cuisine of Thailand.

From January 2023, Thailand has removed many of its travel restrictions and entry requirements for Indian citizens.

These are the major changes that will affect Indian travelers:

• Thailand Travel Insurance is still highly recommended for Indians who are traveling to Thailand and returning to India.
• All mandatory hotel quarantine has been removed.
• Thailand Pass is no longer required for Indian Citizens travelers entering Thailand.
• All travelers do not need to provide proof of vaccination before arriving.
• Wearing masks is no longer compulsory.
• The TM6 arrival card has been temporarily removed when entering Thailand.
• Indian passport holders are eligible to obtain Visa on Arrival with a permit to stay of 30 days.

The Thai Embassy and Consulates in India have resumed their visa services, and it is once again easy for responsible Indian visitors to enjoy a worry-free holiday in Thailand.

Required Documents for Travel to Thailand

Please have the following documents ready.

• Passport with at least six month validity
• Visa or visa exemption qualification
• Buy Thailand Travel Insurance
• Boarding pass to be presented at Passport Control
• Hotel booking confirmation if asked by Immigration Officer
• Note: Vaccination record no longer required

Incorrect documents will delay the entry screening by rules from the Thai immigration bureau and its Thai immigration officials.

Buy Your Insurance Now

Easy Steps for Entering Thailand from India in 2023

Apply for a thai visa, visa on arrival for indians.

Indian citizens are again allowed to enter Thailand under the Visa on Arrival scheme. There is a restriction in place that Indian citizens can visit Thailand under this program for a maximum stay of 30 days.

If you would like to stay in Thailand longer, you will need to apply for a visa at your local Thai Embassy.

Long Term Visas for Indians

Tourist visa.

Indian citizens may apply for a Tourist Visa from the Thai embassy or consulate. There is the normal 60-day tourist visa that can be extended for additional 30 days.

Thai Elite Visa

If you wish to make Thailand easily accessible for many years to come, or are perhaps thinking of relocating permanently, it is worth having a look at the Thailand Elite Visa .

The Thai Elite Visa allows Indian citizens to live in Thailand for 5, 10, even 20 years. Thai Elite members do not need to worry about some of the eligibility criteria needed when applying for other long-term visas.

The Thai Elite visa is exclusive and offers a host of benefits to holders. If you want to enjoy “Thai life” for the long term, you can read more about the Thailand Elite Visa .

Non-Immigrant Visa

Foreigners may also apply for a wide range of non-immigrant visas:

• Non-immigrant B Visa – for conducting business or employment
• Non-immigrant O visa – for visiting Thai spouse and family
• Non-immigrant ED visa – for students of recognized institutions in Thailand and their Parents or Legal guardian
• Non-immigrant O retirement visa – for those who wish to retire in Thailand
• Non-immigrant OA and OX visa – for those who wish to obtain a Thailand retirement visa for long stay (it differs from type O visa)

The above visas can be organized with a local Thai Embassy or Consulate in India. The paperwork can be quite involved, but there are companies that can help.

Siam Legal International is a reputable company in Thailand that has offered visa assistance to Indians for years. They are well versed in Thai immigration policies and processes. If you would like to streamline your long-term stay in Thailand, it is worth contacting them. You can reach Siam Legal at www.siam-legal.com .

To apply for a Thai visa, please visit the following websites:

• New Delhi: https://newdelhi.thaiembassy.org/
• Kolkata: https://kolkata.thaiembassy.org/
• Chennai: https://www.thaiconsulategeneralchennai.com/

Mumbai: https://mumbai.thaiembassy.org/

Vaccination status and entering Thailand

From January 2023, Citizens from India will be able to enter Thailand with any proof of vaccination status. However, for travelers returning to India, you are required to have a COVID test in Thailand before your flight to India.

Book your Flight to Thailand

Most international airlines are flying into Thailand and follow the rules of the arrival country. If you are transiting through another country, it is best to check with the airline if you need to complete any tests for that country.

Book a Hotel

To find and compare the best hotels available in Thailand, visit Agoda . They allow free booking and cancellation, confirm bookings with hotels and their web page is easy to navigate and compare hotels.

You need to enter an address when traveling to Thailand. The accommodation can be a hotel, home or a friend’s address.

Purchase your Travel Insurance

For travelers from and into India, it is mandatory  to purchase a Travel Insurance policy before traveling to Thailand.  The insurance must be valid for the duration of your stay in Thailand plus 7 days.

Insurance is one of those things that is better to have and not need than need and not have. Travel insurance doesn’t just cover COVID Comprehensive travel insurance will also cover:

• Medical emergencies
• Personal injury & accidents
• Missed or delayed flights
• Damage to belongings
• Loss of luggage

The most important thing to know about insurance is that foreign travelers are not eligible for any form of free medical care in Thailand. No matter the circumstance, if an Indian citizen needs medical attention, they will need to pay for it. Depending on the severity, this could amount to thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses.

There are multiple reasons to protect yourself when traveling. Many visitors to Thailand choose AXA Insurance Thailand. It is a trusted company that offers comprehensive insurance to travelers from around the world. Their policies are straightforward with good coverage.

Some advantages to AXA Insurance are:

• Recognized and trusted by Thai authorities and medical facilities.
• Easy to apply online and approved in minutes.
• Competitive pricing and cover.
• Has no 14-day waiting period and covers COVID-related incidents, including asymptomatic cases.
• Provides customers with a convenient 1-Page Certificate of insurance. This certificate contains all relevant information needed by medical professionals or if making a claim.

To see the cover offered and organize your insurance to Thailand in minutes. Visit AXA Thailand .

Arriving in Thailand – Best Practices

So what can you expect when landing in Thailand? Here are a few things that will help you enjoy your trip and show respect to local Thai people.

Wearing Masks

Wearing of masks is no longer compulsory but still recommended when in public places. You see that many Thai people (and visitors) still wear masks when out and about. It is recommended to wear a mask when visiting restaurants or public venues. You will not get in trouble if you don’t wear a mask, but it is a case of “do as the locals do”. It is about respect and consideration.

TM6 Arrival Cards

The Thai government has temporarily removed the need for visitors to complete the blue arrival card known as TM6. Their aim is to ease congestion at airports and remove another form that holiday makers need to complete. This initiative is in a testing phase, but it is hoped that the removal of TM6 will be successful and the change will become permanent.

Paperwork to Prepare

Though Thailand Pass is removed, and travelers do not need to provide proof before entry, it is best to prepare a few documents before arriving.

• Certificate of Travel Insurance
• Visa on Arrival Form
• 1 passport size photo
• 2,000 THB visa on arrival fee
• flight booking and hotel reservation

This will speed up your processing time before leaving your country, or if asked to provide vaccination or testing proof in a random check. These documents can be presented in digital form, but airlines, Immigration, and Health Officers will appreciate the extra effort if you print them.

Following the above advice will ensure you have a smooth trip to Thailand and can enjoy a few weeks of well-deserved vacation in the tropics.

Where to take RT-PCR test in Bangkok

Travel to Thailand by Nationality

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Thailand Travel Restrictions 2023

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242 Comments

What all documents are needed to go Thailand for an Indian ? can we apply visa on arrive through online

Hello, Goulun.

You can learn more about the documents needed for the Visa on Arrival here: https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/visa-on-arrival And yes, you can apply for a Visa on Arrival online.

For immigration-related questions, we recommend that you join the community here to learn more about how to enter Thailand: https://howtoenterthailand.com/

My Indian passport is expiring in 3 months Sep 15th 2024. Can I still travel for tourism to Thailand for 1 week for family vacation?

Hello, Kumar.

Unfortunately, the minimum visa validity requirement is 6 months. Less than this will likely result in a visa denial.

We are travelling on 28 June and return on 6 July. My kids Indian Passport expires on 24 Nov 2024. Will there be any problem with entry? Is travel insurance mandatory for visa on arrival?

Hello, Rehan.

Whether you and your family are entering Thailand with a Tourist Visa or through the Visa Exemption Scheme, you passports must have at least 6 months of validity remaining. Also, travel insurance is no longer mandatory, but it is recommended when traveling in Thailand.

I’m travelling to Krabi from India on 27th May 2024. Will I get Visa on arrival (I’m Indian citizen) at Krabi Airport?

Hello, Ramen Mitra

You are able to get a Visa on Arrival at Krabi Airport , as India is one of the many countries on the Visa on Arrival list.

Dear Sir/. Madam, Is visa free entry to Thailand for nationals of India extended beyond 10Mat24? Thank you

Hello, Mona Mehta.

Thailand’s Visa Exemption Scheme for Indians have been extended from May 11, 2024, to November 11, 2024.

Hi My planned travel to Thailand is from 12th may 24 for tourism Is visa exemption scheme valid or I need to apply for VoA.

If you only plan to stay in Thailand for 15 days, then the Visa on Arrival may work best for you, as the Visa Exemption Scheme allows you to stay in Thailand for 30 days.

I visited Thailand from January 7th to January 16th. Can I visit again in mid-February? I’m from India.

Hello, Ran.

Yes, you can visit Thailand again in mid-February.

Can I travel to Thailand with one month valaidity on my Indian passport.

Hello, Arvind Kumar.

Unfortunately, you will need a passport with a validity of 6 months or more to enter Thailand on a Tourist Visa or through the Visa Exemption Scheme.

Is the VISA free for Indians from Nov-23 to May -24?

Hello, Arpit.

The Visa Exemption Scheme for Indians is available from 10th November 2023 to 10th May 2024.

I am need to travel from India to Thailand for a week from 19th November 2023. My passport will expire on 18th May 2024. So it will be less then 6 months validity. Will i get the visa for Thailand? Please guide.

Hello, Aftab.

You will need a visa with a validity of at least 6 months or more to be able to apply for a Tourist Visa to Thailand.

Hi Would like to know if it is mandatory to get rtpcr test or any other forms to be filled traveling back to home country from thailand to india for non vaccinated kids age 13 and 8.

Dear Vishwajeet,

Regarding your trip to India, I recommend for you to check with the airline or your government’s travel bulletin. Thank you.

Hi, I am an Indian passport holder. Travelling to Thailand on 5th of November to 12th of November. How to apply and get visa. I see on one website https://thaievisa.go.th/ that e visa can not be taken and visit consulate in person, this is contrary to what I read here. what to do?

Dear Siddhant,

This website cannot be used for application in India. You are not eligible to apply for a visa through Thai E-Visa system. Please apply for a visa in person at the nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate. Thank you.

Me, my wife and my son (10 yrs old) plan to arrive in Thailand on 26th October 2022 for 8 days vacation to celebrate his birthday. While my wife’s and my passport expire on 30th October 2023 (more than 6 months), our son’s passport expires on 27th March 2023 (less than 6 months). Will my son still get a visa?

Dear Mitul,

Yes, that is acceptable as long as the passport of your son is still valid when you arrive back to your country.

Hi travelling from India to Thailand need to show any show money. If yes can you please let me know in dollars.

Hello, Krishna Sumith.

If you’re applying for a Tourist Visa, then you would need to have 10,000 THB (~$280) per person or 20,000 THB (~$560) if you’re traveling as a family. If you plan to enter Thailand through the Visa Exemption Scheme, then you will need to provide 10,000 THB (~$280) per person or 20,000 THB (~$560) per family.

Hi , As per the news , after 1 oct 2022 VOA extend to 30 days , is this apply for E visa also ? (for india)

Dear Sachin,

Yes. Attached for your guidance https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/visa-on-arrival

For more information about travel to Thailand, please check this link: https://www.thaiembassy.com/weekly-updates/thailand-entry-requirements-for-october-2022

Hi, I have an Indian passport and my passport is expiring on 10th jun,2023 and i am travelling to Thailand on 10th dec,2022 and leaving Thailand on 20th Dec,2022. Since the expiry date of my passport will be less than 6 months, will i be given a visa on arrival to Thailand,and enter and leave Thailand without any issues?

Regards Pallabi

Dear Pallabi,

Yes, not less than 6 months.

For more information about travel to Thailand, please check this link: https://www.siam-legal.com/legal-guide/how-to-enter-thailand-2022-guide.pdf

In https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/visa-on-arrival , One of the criteria is “Hold a genuine passport with a valid expiry of more than 30 days.” .

Do we need to hold a passport with minimum of 6months validity or More than 30 days?

I am planning to come to Phuket on Nov 4th and my passport is expiring on March 2023. am I allowed for tourism purpose?

I am Indian working in Australia

Your passport should be minimum of 6 months valid. The immigration will not accept it if less than 6 months.

Can i get 2 entry visa for thailand.. I need to plan krabi in one entry for 3 days and later next time in another entry pattaya and Bangkok for 5days…

In this regard do I need to evisa twice or any option in one go for 2 entries

I’m Indian citizen working in Malaysia

Just single entry visa, you can use your 15 days visa on arrival for the whole travel in Thailand as long that you will not disembarked outside the country.

Two questios: We will arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport by Thai flight and leave a few hours later by Bangkok Airways for Siem Reap from same airport. Will we need a transit visa? We will not exit the airport.

On our way back, we plan to come by cab from Cambodia to Bangkok, can we get Thai Tourist visa at the border with Cambodia or should we get our visa from India before starting our holiday?

Dear Rudreshwar,

1. If you will not check in to immigration , no need for transit visa. 2.You can get visa on arrival or evoa https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/visa-on-arrival

Can I fly to Krabi from India but return from Bangkok instead of Krabi? Would love to shop in Bangkok before returning to India. Thanks.

Hi Eiflieda,

1. I am travelling from Mumbai to Bangkok on 25th November for 10 days. How many days before travel I can apply for Thai Visa.

2. Can I apply for visa at Thai Embassy at Nariman Point, Mumbai instead of VFS.

You can apply voa or evoa. Here’s for your guidance https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/visa-on-arrival

Hi I am Joby Varghese and India citizen. If I want to travel from Cambodia to Bangkok by road can I get on arrival visa from the boarder? What are the documents should I provide? Please give details Thanking you Joby Varghese

If you are using Indian passport, you can apply voa. https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/visa-on-arrival

We are travelling Thailand with 8 months baby…do we need a passport for baby??

My passport will be expiring in March, 2023, Am i eligible for 7 days tourist visa to thailand ?

As long it will not be minimum of 6 months, you can apply eVoa. Check this https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/visa-on-arrival

how much does e-visa cost for Indian citizen and how can I apply it from India ?

It cost 2000 baht. Check this https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/visa-on-arrival .

I’m from India. What is the process of getting multiple entry visa, how much does it cost and validity ?

In applying multiple entry visa, please check this https://www.siam-legal.com/thailand-visa/1-Year-Thailand-Visa.php

Hello. I am Indian official passport holder. I am scheduled to travel to Laos via Bangkok along with my wife and daughter (also official passport holders). There is a layover of 14 hours at Bangkok. Do we need to have transit visa for transiting through Bangkok.

Transit less than 24 hours or not passing through immigration procedure are not required to apply for transit visa.

Can I ride Scooty with my Indian Driving license in Thailand ?

Hi Tanveer,

You must have a license if you want to hire a motorbike or car. (International drivers permit)

I am travelling to Bangkok, in Sep last week, from India and planning a road trip down to Phuket. Would I need ‘international driving permit’ in addition to valid Indian driving license ?

You can, if you have a valid driver’s license in English from your country of origin or a valid International driver’s license.

I read the guide but there’s no mention of requirement of ‘internal driving permit’ or English language driving license.

My driving license is in English, would I be permitted to drive 2 wheeler and 4 wheeler in Bangkok and Phuket ?

Hi I am planning to travel to Thailand tomm with Indian passport but my passport is expiring on 18 February 2023. Am I eligible to travel from india. Pls advise it’s urgent

It should be minimum of 6 months validity.

I reached Bangkok three days before with my family Do I need any test report for my daughter who is 12 years old and is unvaccinated My flight for India is on Sunday from Bangkok

Do I need any test for my daughter of 12 years old

If you are fully vaccinated, children can enter without test.

I am travelling to Thailand from India on 27th Aug 2022 (in 2 days) I am planning to stay for 16 days, can I apply for Visa on Arrival? (I noticed the 15 days restriction of Visa on Arrival today)

Yes, visa on arrival is actually 14 days you can add extension.

How much show money we will be requiring, if we are traveling for honeymoon.

For the proof of funds, it is 10,000 THB. You will apply for your visa on arrival at the Bangkok airport right? The visa on arrival fee is 2000 THB. Thank you.

Is thai pass n insurance mandatory? Arriving on 20 August

Hi Mohammed,

No, it’s not necessary.

I n view of yesterday’s bomb blast in south Thailand,is it safe to go to Phuket and krabi on 23august

Yes. It’s still safe.

Hi I am traveling to Thailand from India in November 2022. One of us is a US citizen and the other is Indian citizen. I understand visa on arrival is available for Indian citizens. Does the Indian citizen need to carry a photo? Can I pay in USD?

There is a minimum amount to be shown (about 20000) Do I need to carry this in cash? Is a bank statement in dollars enough?

Yes, need to bring photo for visa on arrival application. Here’s the link for your guidance. https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/travel-to-thailand-from-india

Hello, Good morning

I’m an Indian passport holder and I’m traveling to Thailand for 3_4 days. So do I need account statement? And how much money I need to maintain in my account? It will be same applicable for my partner or not?

You can check this https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/travel-to-thailand-from-india .

I own an apartment in Bangkok for the last 10 years but haven’t been there for 3 years. Can i apply for a 90 day tourist visa?

Hi Ricardo,

You can apply special tourist visa (90 days).

Hi Yord Bro, Iam an indian citizen i scheduled to travel with my wife & minor son aged 6 years to thailand for a trip of 3 nights & 4 days this aug. My son’s passport has a validity of only 5 months. Some say at least six & some say three. Can you pls clarify my query???? We will be denied entry am worried??? Thank YOU !!

Dear Mohamed,

If the child is traveling with a parent whose passports are more than 6 months, then it won’t be a problem. Thank you.

Hi. I am an Indian citizen. I am visiting Bangkok on 16th August for 3 days and from there I will go to Australia as currently I live in Australia on a visa. What documents I need in Thailand for visa on arrival? Thanks in advance

Hi Prithwish,

Please click this for visa on arrival requirements. https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/visa-on-arrival

I am traveling from India to Thailand (landing at Phuket) with my 7 year old daugther on 9th Aug. She is not vaccincated, is it neccessary for a RTPCR test to be done?

Regards, Kashyap

Hi Kashyap,

Hi Yordmanu,

I am visiting bangkok on 10-Aug-2022 along with my family from India for tourism. I hold an Indian Passport.

Please confirm Do I still have to pay Thb 2000 for visa on arrival As I just came to know that now we don’t have to pay that.

Hi Harmanjeet,

Yes you’re right, Indian passport holder can apply visa on arrival amounting Thb 2000

I will be visiting Thailand in November with my cousins. I want to know how much currency should we be carrying with us as a group in bhat.

Hi Sanjana,

If your visa required show money it should be minimum 20,000 baht not more than 500,000 baht.

What all documents are accepted for financial proof ?

If your visa required show money , normally minimum of 20,000 baht.

Does child aged 2+ need to have RT-PCR , if they are travelling with vaccinated adults

I m holding a indian national passport issued from UK, is on arrival visa valid for me? plz advice.

Hi Mr. Barun,

Yes, you can apply visa on arrival.

Hello. Planning to visit Thailand in the 1st week of January’2023. Does my son, who is 13+ yrs old require RT PCR test? He is already taken 2 shots of Corbevax which is currently being given 12 to 14 yrs kids in India.

2 doses is fully vaccinated, no RT PCR needed for fully vaccinated.

Hi Yordmanu

I am visiting Phuket on 10-Aug-2022 along with my family for six days from India for tourism. I hold an Indian Passport.

Please confirm 1. Visa on arrival is available and what is the fees , need to paid in USD or Thai Bhatt 2. Is Insurance mandatory 3. Any other document

Hi Prasham,

Visa on arrival is amoutning THB 2000 Insurance is not mandatory but still highly recommended. Passport and vaccination certificate

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India’s Latest Guidelines on International Travel

This timeline summarizes the most recent developments in the rules and regulations governing international travel to and from India.

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February 2023

• From February 13, 11 AM , passengers coming to India from or via China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand will not require a negative RT-PCR report from a pre-departure test for COVID-19. Travelers from these five countries will no longer have to fill the self-health declaration form on the Air Suvidha portal either. The 2% random testing on arrival in India [from any country of origin] policy that was started December 24 last year, shall continue.

January 2023

• Reported by Times of India , all Indians traveling to Sri Lanka will have to follow the country’s revised COVID-19 protocols. Sri Lanka has announced that all tourists to the country will be required to carry their vaccination cards, and unvaccinated travelers must carry a negative PCR report obtained 72 hours prior to their arrival.

December 2022

December 29, 2022.

• On December 29, 2022, India’s Federal Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that RT-PCR test would be mandatory from January 1, 2023 for international passengers travelling to India from China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Thailand . The test must be conducted within 72 hours of undertaking the journey to India. 
• These negative RT-PCR reports must be uploaded on the Air Suvidha portal before travel.
• This requirement is in addition to the random two percent tests of all international passengers in all incoming international flights on their arrival in India irrespective of their port of departure.

December 28, 2022

Air India Express, India’s first international budget carrier that offers flights to the Middle East and Southeast Asia, has issued guidelines for the maintenance of Covid-appropriate behaviour by travellers travelling from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to India. The guidelines include:

• All passengers from UAE should preferably be completely immunised as per the approved primary schedule of Covid vaccination. 
• All visitors should preferably use masks and follow physical distancing on flights/travel and at all points of entry.
• Post-arrival random testing is not required for children under the age of 12. However, if they have Covid-related symptoms upon arrival, they have to undergo testing in accordance with protocol. 

December 26, 2022

• On December 24, 2022, Indian Health Ministry announced that international arrivals from China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Thailand will have to mandatorily present RT-PCR test results . In case any passengers from these countries are symptomatic or test positive for Covid-19, they will be quarantined. 
• Economic Times reporting that Air Suvidha form filling to declare current health status will also be made compulsory for international passengers arriving from China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Thailand.
• Times of India reporting that Qatar has reinstated visa-on-arrival (VOA) facility for Indian travellers , which were temporarily halted due to FIFA World Cup 2022 in the country. Indian nationals can get a free VOA in Qatar for a maximum stay of 30 days or as per the hotel reservation and under the following conditions: valid passport for at least six months, confirmed return tickets, and confirmed hotel reservation through ‘Discover Qatar’ website only.
• Times of India  reporting that effective from January 1, 2023 , Serbia has discontinued visa-free travel regulations for Indian citizens , keeping in line with the requirements of European Union (EU) visa policy and measures to control illegal migrants. 

December 23, 2022

New guidelines applicable for international arrivals from December 24, 2022: “All travelers should preferably be fully vaccinated as per the approved primary schedule of vaccination against COVID-19 in their Country.” See here for the official Ministry of Health and Family Welfare notification issued December 22.

India will randomly test 2 percent of international travelers arriving in the country’s airports for COVID, with effect from Saturday (December 24) 10 am IST , as announced by Mansukh Mandaviya, Health Minister on Thursday December 21. Travelers will be allowed to leave the airport after submitting their sample. After the random testing, if found COVID-positive, the person’s sample shall be sent for genomic testing at a designated INSACOG laboratory network; reports shall be hared with Integrated Disease Surveillance Program at [email protected] by the concerned testing laboratory (besides sharing with the airport health organization APHOS) to be in turn shared with concerned state or union territory for further follow-up action.

• India is becoming increasingly cautious after a surge in cases recorded in neighboring China as well as in Brazil, US, Japan, and Korea, besides it being the ongoing holiday and festive season, which witnesses a jump in travel. In another move, visitors to the Taj Mahal (Agra, Uttar Pradesh state), will undergo a COVID-19 test before they enter, as per reporting from news agency ANI. While wearing masks are not currently mandatory in most parts of the country, it will likely be increasingly encouraged. For example, the southern state of Karnataka has made wearing masks mandatory indoors and in closed spaces in guidelines released December 22.

December 14, 2022

• DNA  reporting a travel advisory issued due to the ongoing chaos at Delhi international airport: “To ensure a quick security check, Air India has urged all travelers to bring just one piece of carry-on luggage and arrive at least 3.5 hours early.”
• Times of India  reporting that Hong Kong and Nigeria are among the latest to remove COVID-19 travel rules for international travelers. 
• Business Today  reporting that IndiGo has announced 32 connecting flights between India and Europe – flying to Milan, Manchester, Birmingham, Rome, and Venice – starting December 7, 2022. These international flights will operate in partnership with Turkish Airlines.

November 2022

• Times of India  reporting that Germany is relaxing visa appointment rules for Indian tourists. According to German Missions in the country, Indian travelers can book their visa appointment at any VFS global Visa Application Centre in major Indian cities and the Schengen visa can be applied for three months before the travel date. However, this relaxation does not apply to the D-visa category – students, employment, and family reunion visas, among others.
• New Air India flights announced between India and US, Europe ( Business Traveller ): – Air India is launching new flights connecting Mumbai with New York, Paris, and Frankfurt, and resuming non-stop flights connecting Delhi with Copenhagen, Milan, and Vienna. The new daily Mumbai-New York service to John F Kennedy International Airport will commence February 14, 2023, which will take Air India’s India-US frequency to 47 non-stop flights per week. – The new Air India flights from Delhi to Europe announced are: four weekly Delhi-Milan from February 1, 2023 and three weekly flights each on the Delhi-Vienna and Delhi-Copenhagen routes starting February 18 and March 1, 2023, respectively. – From Mumbai, new Air India flights are currently being planned to Paris* (thrice-weekly) and Frankfurt* (four weekly) from the next quarter. 
• India is discontinuing the Air Suvidha self-declaration form starting November 22, 2022. Passengers flying into India will no longer need to fill out the Air Suvidha form from November 21-22 midnight and will not need to take an RT-PCR COVID-19 test.

On November 14, the Canada  government concluded an expanded Canada-India Air Transport Agreement “to allow unlimited flights between both countries”. The announcement said: “The expanded agreement allows designated airlines to operate an unlimited number of flights between the two countries. The previous agreement limited each country to 35 flights per week. The new rights under the expanded agreement are available for use by airlines immediately. Money Control reports that this will give Canadian airlines access to the Indian cities of Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai while Indian airlines will receive access to Toronto, Edmonton, Montreal, and Vancouver as well as two additional points (Canadian cities) selected by India. India is Canada’s fourth largest international air transport market and there are an estimated 1.5 million Indians living in Canada. Presently the only non-stop direct flights in this market are from Air India and Air Canada.

October 2022

The Financial Express  reports plans of Air India to add 20 weekly, non-stop flights to the US and UK between October and December. “With five additional flights a week to Birmingham, nine additional flights to London, and six additional flights a week to San Francisco, Air India said it will be able to offer over 5,000 additional seats every week.” Soon there will be seven Indian cities offering direct Air India flights to London.

September 2022

• No new updates were made to the “Risk Levels” and “Safety and Security” sections of the Canadian government’s travel advisory for India: The Hindu report .
• Hong Kong is lifting compulsory quarantine requirement for arrivals starting from September 26. There will be three days of medical surveillance during which inbound persons are free to go out but are obliged to comply with Amber Code restrictions under the Vaccine Pass, followed by a four-day self-monitoring period, making it a 7-day observation period in total, as per the Hong Kong government’s notification .
• Taiwan will end mandatory quarantine for travelers arriving in the country from October 13 as per reporting from Reuters . Speaking to the media, Taiwan’s Cabinet spokesperson Lo Ping-cheng stated that from September 29, visa-free entry will be resumed for overseas travelers that previously enjoyed that status. Under its ‘New Taiwan Model’, the government is set to increase weekly arrival limits for international travelers to 60,000 from 10,000 and will not require PCR tests for arrivals. If the pandemic situation is stable, the country will end quarantine from around October 13 and increase the weekly arrival limit to 150,000.
• Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced travel relaxations in Japan while in New York for the UN General Assemebly session. “… from 11 October, Japan will relax border control measures to be on par with the US, as well as resume visa-free travel and individual travel.”  BBC  reports that the cap on daily arrivals will also be lifted.
• Fiji removed its COVID-19 test requirements for international travelers from September 5, 2022.
• Media is reporting that Indians traveling to Indonesia can fast track their visa applications on arriving in Jakarta as VFS Global has reached an exclusive agreement with the Indonesian Immigrant Department.
• See India’s guidelines for international arrivals – dated September 2, 2022 – which came in effect the next day. The document provides protocols to be complied by international travelers as well as those to be followed by airlines and all points of entry (airports, seaports, and land border). 
• International flights resumed operations starting September 3, in Guwahati’s (Assam state) Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA), after a gap of two years. In the next few months, officials speaking to the  Hindustan Times said that the LGBIA airport will start flights from Guwahati to Yangon (Myanmar), Kathmandu (Nepal), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Hanoi (Vietnam), and Bangkok (Thailand).

January – August, 2022

• Airlines and travel agents in India have to share details of international travelers with the Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBIC) 24 hours before departure and arrival. The information will be provided to the National Customs Targeting Centre-Passenger (NCTC). While this rule had been proposed five years ago, to combat tax avoidance and tax evasion, the government has only now developed a regulatory framework to implement this. India is among 60 countries collecting such details of international passengers. The Ministry of Finance issued the notification on August 8, 2022, as per media reports .
• China no longer requires COVID test information for international arrivals from August 31, 2022 : On Thursday, August 25, 2022, China’s General Administration of Customs released  a new health declaration form for international arrivals, which removes the requirement for visitors to report their nucleic acid test results, infection status, and vaccination dates. This ninth version of the health declaration form will be implemented starting from August 31, 2022, and international visitors can report their health status online by filling out a form on the related WeChat account or webpage. Some  media  interpret that with this update, the current entry requirement, that is, the requirement to have international passengers take two PCR tests for COVID-19 within 48 hours of their departure, the second of which must be within 24 hours of their departure — will be lifted.  However, considering that China is still sticking to its dynamic zero-COVID strategy, we recommend that international travelers double-check with their flight companies for further information.
• The Chinese Embassy in India has updated its “ Application Procedures and Material Requirements of China Visa “, to be implemented from August 24, 2022. See here for the list of requirements and procedures for various types of Chinese visas, including the M-Visa (commercial and trade activities) and the X1-Visa (long-term study): http://in.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/lsfw/qz/202208/t20220822_10748221.htm 
• The  Business Standard  noted in a report that China was working to facilitate the return of foreign students, including from India, who have been stuck due to the COVID-19 visa restriction. The paper quoted Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin who told media that the Chinese side were working intensively for the return of foreign students to China. In updated comments on the foreign ministry website, Wenbin said: “We are confident in seeing the return of the first group of Indian students in the near future. Building on that, the Chinese side will further proceed with the return of other Indian students in a well thought-out and orderly manner.”
• India’s domestic air fare caps will end from August 31, as the civil aviation regulator DGCA rolls back restrictions imposed in 2020. This minimum to maximum price band had been introduced to avoid sky high ticket prices due to pent up demand in the domestic travel market. 
• India’s passport offers visa-free access to 60 countries , including Bhutan, Nepal, Macao, Oman, Qatar, and Fiji. According to the latest Henley Passport Index, published by immigration consultancy Henley & Partners, India’s passport ranked 87th. India had ranked 90th in Q3 and Q4 in 2021. The latest index is topped by Japan, whose passport offers visa-free access to 193 countries, followed by South Korea and Singapore (at 192 countries each), and Germany and Spain (190). As per reporting by the Hindustan Times: Indians have ‘visa-on-arrival’ access in Thailand, Indonesia, Maldives, and Sri Lanka as well as 21 countries in Africa.
• Speaking at the World Economic Forum on Tuesday, the Chinese Premier, Li Keqiang, promised to relax restrictions on international travel in an “orderly” way , which would include facilitating the return of foreign students to rejoin Chinese colleges. Around 500,000 foreign students are enrolled at universities in China, including 23,000 Indians. Li said: “All international students may return to China to continue their studies should they so wish, and outbound commerce and trade activities and cross-border travel for labor services will be advanced in an orderly fashion.” The comments were made during a Special Virtual Dialogue with Global Business Leaders hosted by the forum. Foreign diplomatic missions in China are presently trying to speed up the process to facilitate the return of international students to China. While this is now in a small-scale trial mode, any large-scale opening can be expected only when the country’s epidemic outbreaks slow down.
• Competent authorities in China and India are communicating on securing the resumption of flights and to bring back the first group of Indian students to China at the earliest as reported in  The Economic Times.
• Bhutan is allowing travelers into the country from September 23, 2022 – after a two-year gap. Tourists from India should note the levy of a sustainable development fee (SDF), charged at 1,200 ngultrums (approx. INR 1200) per day; children between the age of six and 12 are charged INR 600 per day and no fee is charged from children below the age of five. The SDF fee is not applicable everywhere – there are exemptions to the levy in 11 districts in the less popular Eastern Bhutan region, until December 2024. 
• India is working to roll out e-passports as per its external affairs minister S. Jaishankar. The minister also informed that the Passport Seva System had been integrated with the DigiLocker system to facilitate paperless documentation. Jaishankar added: “The Ministry in collaboration with the Department of Posts operationalized 428 Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) to reach out to our citizens at their doorsteps. The Ministry has successfully integrated the passport issuance systems in 178 of our Embassies and Consulates abroad.” 
• Saudi Arabia has lifted COVID-related travel restrictions on citizens travelling to India, Ethiopia, Turkey, and Vietnam and is accepting pilgrims for the forthcoming annual Hajj season, The Hindu  reports June 20, 2022. The requirement to wear face masks in closed places has also been relaxed.
• China has updated its visa policy for Indians , including Indian professionals and students. China will accept visa applications of foreign nationals and their accompanying family members seeking to return to China for resumption of work in all fields. Visas for tourism and private purposes remain suspended. The details of over 12,000 Indian students have reportedly been forwarded to the Chinese government for visa processing. (Over 23,000 Indian students – mostly enrolled in medical colleges in China – had to return to India and were stuck during the last few years due to the coronavirus pandemic, which first broke out December 2019.) However, China is yet to announce resumption of normal flight facilities between the two countries.
• The US does not require arriving international travelers to take a COVID-19 test within a day before boarding their flights to the country from June 12, Sunday. “As of 12:01AM ET on June 12, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will no longer require air passengers traveling from a foreign country to the United States to show a negative COVID-19 viral test or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before they board their flight. For more information, see Rescission: Requirement for Negative Pre-Departure COVID-19 Test Result or Documentation of Recovery from COVID-19 for all Airline or Other Aircraft Passengers Arriving into the United States from Any Foreign Country .”
• Media reports say the DGCA has made masks mandatory at Indian airports and during flights. India recorded 7,240 new cases in 24 hours [ June 9 MoHFW update], the highest since March.
• On Wednesday, June 8, India’s aviation regulator DGCA announced fresh guidelines for COVID-appropriate behavior. The wearing of masks is now mandatory inside the flight / throughout the air travel , and mask removal is permitted only under exceptional circumstances. Violators could be treated as ‘unruly passengers’ and removed from the flight before departure. This is in line with a Delhi High Court order, which stipulates that violators can be put on ‘no fly list’. 
• India’s  overall passenger traffic  (both domestic and international) at airports reached 93 percent of pre-COVID levels in May 2022. International passenger traffic reached 63 percent and 72 percent of pre-COVID levels in April and May, respectively. Recovery of domestic travel reached 98 percent of pre-COVID levels in May 2022.
• Turkey has relaxed all the conditions for Indian travelers entering the country, Turkiye Tourism Board said on Monday, June 6.​​ Now, Indian travelers no longer have to show proof of vaccination or proof of recovery from COVID-29 or negative RT-PCR test report.
• The United States Embassy in India has tweeted (8.23pm, May 29): “The US Mission to India is pleased to announce that we are resuming routine in-person tourist visa appointments in September 2022. Previously scheduled placeholders have now been cancelled. Applicants whose placeholder appointments were cancelled may now reenter the scheduling system to book regular appointments. Appointments have been opened through 2023.”
• Media reports say that Israel has removed COVID-19-linked travel requirements for foreign visitors, such as presenting a negative RT-PCR test prior to departure, undergoing an RT-PCR test upon arrival, and quarantine observation.
• Livemint reports: “Malaysia Airlines will add new routes, increase frequencies and upgrade aircraft to cater to the Indian market, which remains a key geography for the airline.”
• Saudi Arabia has banned its citizens from travelling to sixteen countries, including India, Indonesia, and Vietnam, after the Gulf state has recorded a five-fold rise in COVID-19 cases. News18 reports : “Saudi Arabia’s General Department of Passports dropped several Covid-19 restrictions towards the end of last year but are now reimposing some of them as Covid-19 cases are being reported from various parts of the world and China and North Korea bearing the brunt of the Omicron variant which is leading to fresh cases.”
• Indian announced on May 12 that citizens planning to travel abroad are now eligible to get a third (booster/precaution) dose of vaccine three months after their second dose. The rules otherwise stipulate a nine-month gap between the second dose and booster shot. 
• Scoot, the budget airline from Singapore Airlines Group, has launched daily flight services between Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) and Singapore, up from three times a week. As per reporting by The Hindu  [April 27, 2022], Scoot has a network of 42 destinations in 16 countries and territories, including Australia and Southeast Asia.
• VietJet has announced that it will resume operations of six flights – on the Delhi-Hanoi route and Delhi-Ho Chi Minh City route from April 29, 2022. New flights have also been added by VietJet on the Mumbai-Phu Quoc route and New Delhi-Phu Quoc route, which are scheduled to start from September 9, 2022.
• Hong Kong has banned Air India flights till April 24 due to COVID-19 as three passengers on board one of its flights had reportedly tested positive on arrival.
• On April 11,  Times of India  reported that fully vaccinated passengers from the UAE traveling to India will not necessarily require a pre-departure RT-PCR test at the airport. The move is on a reciprocity basis. However, UAE travelers will need to fill out the passenger locator form on the Air Suvidha portal – same as travelers from any other destination visiting India. Also, travelers need to upload their COVID-19 vaccination certificate onto the Air Suvidha portal.
• Scheduled international flight services have resumed from Sunday, March 27, 2022 after being suspended for two years due to COVID-19. Starting March 27, six Indian airlines and 60 foreign airlines will connect India with 63 countries . Under the new summer schedule (March 27 to October 29), foreign airlines will operate 1,783 weekly flights and Indian carriers will operate 1,466 departures every week. Among domestic airlines, IndiGo will operate 505 departures per week, followed by Tata Group-owned Air India at 361 weekly flights and its subsidiary Air India Express will operate 340 flights per week.
• From the  Indian Express : More international airlines add flights to India : “Emirates said… it will be operating the 35 weekly flights from Mumbai, 28 from Delhi, 24 from Bengaluru, 21 each from Chennai and Hyderabad, 14 from Kochi, 11 from Kolkata, nine from Ahmedabad and seven from Thiruvananthapuram.”
• On March 21, 2022, Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced  that from April 1, the Government will lift the flight ban on nine countries (i.e., Australia, Canada, France, India, Pakistan, the Philippines, the UK, the USA, and Nepal)  and cut the hotel quarantine period for arrivals. Currently, passenger aircraft from these nine countries are not allowed to land in Hong Kong. The Chief Executive also announced the preconditions for boarding a flight to Hong Kong and the COVID-19 control and prevention measures to be implemented upon arrival. Given this, there are  comments  saying that traveling to Hong Kong will not get much easier even after the ban is lifted. Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd. plans just one inbound flight every two weeks for fear to be subjected to the city’s 14-day ban on airlines that carry too many passengers found to be infected with COVID-19.
• Singapore announced it is lifting restrictions for all vaccinated travelers from next week. According to officials, from April 1, fully vaccinated adults and unvaccinated children will be allowed to enter Singapore without quarantining, if they take a pre-departure test . Only travelers on a ‘restricted list’ will face curbs in entering Singapore; as of March 24, 2022 – there are no countries on this list.
• On March 21, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) announced relaxed COVID-19-related regulations. NDTV reports MoCA saying “cabin crew members need not wear PPE kit, airlines need not keep three seats vacant on international flights for medical emergencies and security personnel at airports can resume pat-down search of passengers.” However, the use of face mask and maintenance of hand hygiene/sanitizer continues to be mandatory . Airlines may carry additional PPE protective gear, sanitizers, and N-95 masks to handle any respiratory infections related to cases on air – for passengers as well as the crew.
• Cochin International Airport announces summer schedule (March 27 to October 29) with 1,190 weekly operations (international and domestic flights). 20 airlines will operate flights to destinations abroad (including 16 international carriers). Indigo has the most weekly departures to international destinations (42) and Air India Express accounts for 38 weekly departure operations. Other prominent carriers are Air Asia Berhad, Ethihad, Emirates, Oman Air, Qatar Air, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Kuwait Airways, Thai Airways, Sri Lankan Airlines, Gulf Air, and Fly Dubai. 44 weekly departures are scheduled for Dubai, followed by Abu Dhabi with 42. Air India Express will continue its weekly operations to London and Thai Air Asia will resume Kochi operations in June, with 4 weekly direct flights to Bangkok. Source:  The Hindu Business Line
• Useful Quick Links from the Air India portal: – Official Circular on Restoration of Indian Visa (E-Tourist Visa and Tourist Visa) for Foreign Tourists   – Circular For Generating and Accessing International Digital Covid 19 Vaccination Certificate – International Travel Advisories
• Singapore Airlines Group press release: All Singapore Airlines flights from India to Singapore will operate as vaccinated travel lane (VTL) services from March 16, 2022. This will provide eligible customers with quarantine-free entry into Singapore from eight points across India. Scoot, SIA’s low-cost subsidiary, will also progressively convert its non-VTL services from Amritsar, Coimbatore, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchi, and Visakhapatnam to VTL services. Short-term visitors and Singapore work-permit holders who seek to avail VTL services must apply for a Vaccinated Travel Pass (VTP) prior to their visa application. VTP applications should be made between three and 60 calendar days before the person’s intended date of entry into Singapore. Travelers must ensure their eligibility to use the VTL services before their flight. 
• Regular international flights to resume March 27, 2022 after two years suspension. This is the start of the summer schedule 2022.
• Economic Times reporting “ Global travel shedding Covid baggage as several nations ease restrictions for Indians “. 
• India has once again extended its ban on regular commercial international passenger flights – until further orders – as per a circular dated February 28, 2022 issued by the Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Flights under air bubble arrangements and international cargo flights will continue.
• On February 28, 2022 , the Indian government updated its “ List of Countries/Regions in respect of which primary vaccination schedule completion certificate is allowed to be uploaded ” on the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website: see document here . There are 88 countries now on this list . (The Union health ministry has removed the at-risk categorization of countries.) 
• India and Thailand have finalized an air bubble arrangement, bringing the total number of such bilateral flight agreements to 37. Airline carriers between India and Thailand will begin operating flights starting in March, which will be subject to approval from the government. Thai Airways will commence flights between India and Thailand starting March 1 under this air bubble. Travelers should note the health protocols and the respective schedules of approved flights between Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Bangkok. Meanwhile, on February 25, SpiceJet announced it will launch six new international flights to Bangkok, commencing from March 10 in a phased manner. SpiceJet plans to launch flights connecting Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata with Bangkok. India reportedly has plans to reopen its regular international travel from March 15, but this is still a tentative date.
• Singapore, UAE, and Kuwait have updated their travel guidelines and COVID-prevention protocols for travelers from India. See here to know more.
• The Airport Authority of India has updated its state-wise guidelines for arriving passengers – by region. The PDF links may be accessed here: COVID Guidelines India Northern Region 14-02-2022 COVID Guidelines India Western Region 21.02.2022 COVID Guidelines India Southern Region 22-02-20212 COVID Guidelines India Eastern Region 18-02-2022 COVID Guidelines India North East Region 17-02-2022
• Dubai ends rapid RT-PCR rules for Indian travelers. Under the new rules , travelers from India have to produce a negative COVID-19 test certificate issued by an approved health service provider and generated 48 hours before scheduled departure of the flight. Passengers will undergo a PCR test upon arrival in Dubai. Transit passengers will be expected to follow rules governing entry at their final destination.
• It is being reported in The Economic Times that the aviation ministry has requested approval from the health ministry to allow resumption of international flights from mid-March. Reason cited by unnamed government source is that domestic traffic has rebounded.
• The government has removed restrictions on the number of flights that can be operated between India and Ukraine under their bilateral air bubble arrangement to facilitate travel of Indians from the eastern European country. India has advised its citizens to temporarily leave Ukraine amid its deteriorating relations with Russia.
• Indian media are reporting that the government is soon to make a decision on whether regular international flights can resume in the summer (March/April). It is being reported by The Economic Times that the aviation ministry has set an internal target of resuming international flight services once domestic airlines capacity touches 80% of pre-COVID flights. (Domestic airlines operated over 2,800 flights before the pandemic struck in 2020; as of February 13, they operated 2,058 flights. To reach the 80% mark, this number has to exceed 2,200.)
• No testing or mandatory quarantine required for international travelers from February 14, 2022: On February 10, India revised guidelines for international arrivals, which will come into effect February 14, 2022 (Monday, 00.01 Hrs IST). The new guidelines remove the category of ‘at risk’ countries and has scrapped the seven-day mandatory quarantine. Instead, India’s health authorities recommend self-monitoring of 14 days for symptoms . The Union Health Ministry stated that there is “need to monitor the continuously changing” COVID-19 virus but accepted that “economic activities need to be taken up in an unhindered manner”. As per the latest guidelines, all foreign arrivals have to fill a self-declaration form online (Air Suvidha web portal), including a travel history of the past 14 days. They must also upload a negative RT-PCR test conducted within 72 hours of the departure date. Alternatively, they can upload a certificate confirming that they are fully vaccinated. This alternative option is only available for passengers arriving from the 72 countries whose vaccination program are recognized by the Indian government. They include Canada, Hong Kong, USA, UK, Bahrain, Qatar, Australia, New Zealand, and some European countries. See here for the official notification on the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare portal.
• Australia will reopen its borders for international tourists from February 21 , subject to conditions. The move comes after almost two years of pandemic-linked travel restrictions. Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison said while making the announcement: “The condition is you must be double vaccinated to come to Australia. That’s the rule. Everyone is expected to abide by it.” However, travelers to Australia should note the state-wise rules and restrictions.
• Vietnam reported to reopen for tourism, welcome foreign travelers from March 15, 2022. See here for information pertaining to travel to Vietnam .
• On February 5, Bali reopened its borders for international travelers and resumed direct international flights. See here for information on travel to Indonesia .
• On February 4, the state of Kerala released revised guidelines for international travelers. ( See here for the official notification by the Kerala government.) Any international traveler coming to Kerala, irrespective of their duration of stay, must undergo symptom surveillance. If they are found symptomatic, they must undertake an RT-PCR test at cost at the airport and take further action as per the test results. The revised rules advise home quarantine for international travelers who do not show symptoms; they must self-monitor their health for 7 days from the date of arrival and undergo testing if they develop symptoms. Rapid Antigen Test is advised on the 8th day after arrival. There will be random testing of 2% of international travelers on the flight, irrespective of the country of departure, and the costs will be borne by the Kerala state government. 
• Singapore Airlines has restarted the vaccinated travel lane (VTL) with India. VTL flights allow quarantine-free travel into Singapore. There are VTL flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai into Singapore. (Singapore has also restarted its vaccinated travel lane with Malaysia.) Passengers should note that there are limited flights and reduced seat quota on these routes.
• The West Bengal state government announced on January 31, that it is rolling back its ban on all international direct flights coming from the United Kingdom to Kolkata.
• Indians who are fully vaccinated can reportedly travel to these seven countries: UK, Thailand, Singapore, Cyprus, Vietnam, Israel, and Saint Lucia in the Caribbean.
• Canada has relaxed COVID-19 testing requirements for travelers from India, starting January 28, 2022. People traveling on direct flights or on a one-stop flight from India do not have to show a negative RT-PCR test done at the Delhi airport within 18 hours of their departure. However, Canada still requires travelers from India to show an RT-PCR test report from an ICMR-approved lab . Fully vaccinated travelers must upload their relevant details onto the ArriveCAN app or website. 
• India’s Ministry of External Affairs – Guidelines for International Arrivals – Quick Access to Documents: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforInternationalarrivalsupdatedon10thFebruary2022.pdf 
• India has extended the ban on scheduled international commercial flights to 23:59 February 28, 2022: Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This ban does not apply to international all-cargo operations and the DGCA-approved flights. The notification was released by the DGCA on January 19, 2022.
• Hong Kong bars flights from India, U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada, France, Pakistan, and Philippines over Omicron fears, reports The Hindu (Jan.5, 2022).
• Countries reported to be requiring mandatory vaccine booster shots for travelers include Kuwait, Netherlands, Switzerland, France, Croatia, Austria, Greece, and Israel. 
• Gulf News is reporting that India is currently making a “day to day” assessment on the resumption of normal international flights. “One has to balance the concerns of public safety and travel,” said Rakesh Kumar Verma, Additional Secretary, Tourism, Government of India. “We will take very expeditious action as and when things improve and the assessment is carried out. I’m hopeful that [full] international travel will resume soon.”
• Starting January 1, 2022, India’s air bubble arrangement with Saudi Arabia will be in effect. 
• India has reached an air bubble agreement with Australia. According to reporting from Livemint : “Australian airline Qantas has recently started flights between Sydney and New Delhi. The airline is also set to start flights between New Delhi and Melbourne before Christmas. Air India also operated direct commercial flights connecting New Delhi with Melbourne and Sydney before scheduled international flights were suspended by the Indian government. Air India flights between India and Australia will resume in coming days, said a senior official with the airline.”
• As of December 7, 2021 , India’s Civil Aviation and Health Ministry has made contactless self-declaration at Air Suvidha Portal mandatory for purpose of contact tracing. Exemption forms from the Air Suvidha portal has been discontinued. All international passengers arriving in India must fill in all the details.
• 108 countries recognize India’s COVID-19 vaccination certificate for travel purpose as per data available on December 6, 2021 .

Commercial international flights were suspended in India since March 25, 2020 due to the coronavirus outbreak. Travel restrictions have begun to be gradually relaxed from October 2021.

Below we highlight the latest guidelines for international travel to and from India.

Latest updates

Status of india’s international air operations.

• On March 8, an order from the government confirmed resumption of regular international flights from March 27, 2022 . “After being recognized the increase of vaccination coverage across the globe and in consultation with the stakeholders, the government of India has decided to resume scheduled commercial international passenger services to/from India from March 27, 2022, ie [that is] start of the summer schedule 2022,” said the order. India had suspended international flights for the first time in March 2020 and began operating air bubble arrangements since July 2020. 
• As of February 28, 2022, India has extended its suspension of scheduled international flights “till further orders”. 
• India rolled back its intention to resume normal international flight schedules from December due to the emergence of the Omicron COVID variant. On December 9, 2021, the civil aviation regulator announced announced the postponement of international scheduled commercial flights till February 28, 2022. Air bubble and evacuation flights schedules, approved flights, and air cargo will function.

India releases periodic guidelines for international passengers coming into India based on the trajectory of the COVID-19 pandemic and emergence of regional variants and their threat assessment. The latest travel guidelines for international arrivals to India were released on February 10, 2022 (and supersede previous notifications): https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforInternationalarrivalsupdatedon10thFebruary2022.pdf

• The Air Suvidha portal for submission of Self Declaration Form, which is mandatory: https://www.newdelhiairport.in/airsuvidha/apho-registration 

For evacuation flight schedule Phase 14 (October 1, 2021 to March 26, 2022), see Air India Vande Bharat Mission here (download PDF): https://www.airindia.in/images/pdf/VBM-schedule-dtd-30sep2021-PHASE14.pdf . The evacuation mission has been in place since May 7, 2020. For destinations operated under air bubble arrangement Phase 13 ( September 1, 2021 to September 30, 2021), click here for PDF download .

• As of April 15, 2021, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has restored electronic visa (e-visa) facility for foreigners from 156 countries. The e-visa facility is applicable for international tourists who wish to visit India for conferences, medical purposes, or business. The e-visa also extends to medical attendants.

Air Transport Bubbles

India has also established “Transport Bubbles” or “Air Travel Arrangements”, which are temporary arrangements between two countries aimed at restarting commercial passenger services when regular international flights are suspended as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. They are reciprocal in nature, meaning airlines from both countries enjoy similar benefits.

The details of such arrangements were last updated in February 2022.

India now has 37 air bubble arrangements in place: Afghanistan, Australia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Canada, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Germany, Iraq, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait, Maldives, Mauritius, Nepal, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Qatar, Russia, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Ukraine, UAE, UK, USA, and Uzbekistan.

More details can be seen on the government website here: https://www.civilaviation.gov.in/en/about-air-transport-bubbles 

• Full service carrier Vistara has started non-stop flight services to Paris from Delhi under the air bubble agreement between India and Europe, according to reporting from The Economic Times . Under the air bubble pact, Vistara’s Boeing 787-9 (Dreamliner) aircraft will fly twice a week between Delhi and Paris – on Wednesday and Sunday. London, Frankfurt, Dubai, Doha, Sharjah, and Male are the other international destinations covered by Vistara, which is a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines.
• The US will be lifting travel restrictions on foreign countries from November 8, Monday. Travelers must show proof of vaccination (WHO-approved vaccines); unvaccinated minors will be subject to testing requirements; and all travelers will need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test 72 hours before departure to the US. See here for Reuters coverage of the changing rules.
• Air India will offer non-stop flights between Delhi and Sydney starting November 15, 2021. Air India will operate the thrice-a-week service on the Delhi-Sydney-Delhi route under the Vande Bharat Mission. Australia has also formally recognized Covaxin, India’s COVID-19 vaccine.
• India’s new visa norms stipulate that visas will be granted to foreigners only if they use water and air routes, not land routes. The Ministry of Home Affairs has allowed the gradual resumption of international travel to start from October 15, 2021 and tourist and e-visas will be issued for only a single entry per month. From November 15, all individual foreign nationals (on fresh tourist visas) will be allowed to enter India after observing prevailing COVID-19 protocols as notified by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. 
• The Union Home Ministry announced on Thursday that India will allow foreign tourists traveling by chartered flights (Vande Bharat and air bubble flights) from October 15, rest from November 15, 2021. Foreigner tourists will be allowed to come in on non-charter flights from November 15 unless the extended restrictions on scheduled flights is substantially lifted. See the Home Ministry’s press briefing here  and reporting by the Economic Times here .
• The Hindustan Times reporting on October 2 : “Australia’s visiting trade and tourism minister Dan Tehan said foreign students will be able to start “returning towards the end of this year and the beginning of next year”, ahead of the start of the first semester in February-March 2022. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of Australia listed Covishield and China’s Coronavac (Sinovac) as “recognised vaccines” after an initial assessment of data on protection offered by the two jabs.”
• CoWin, India’s digital platform for COVID-19 vaccination, is allowing travelers to download an international version of their COVID-19 vaccine certificate, which is compliant with WHO’s international travel guidelines. This feature went live on September 30, 2021, and allows fully vaccinated individuals to update their existing photo identity to passport number and date of birth to get their International Travel Certificate. See website: https://www.cowin.gov.in/
• The Indian Bureau of Immigration noted the specific categories of foreign nationals who are permitted to enter India by water routes or by flights, including those under the Vande Bharat Mission, or ‘Air Bubble’ (Bilateral Air Travel Arrangements) Scheme, or by any non-scheduled commercial flights as allowed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in its notice MHA O.M. No.25022/24/2020-F.V/F.I dated October 21, 2020. See here for reference.
• Air India has said it will run direct services between Muscat and Vijayawada “once a week or thrice from the first week of July”. The Vijayawada International Airport resumed international flights to Gulf destinations, such as Dubai, Kuwait, Muscat in June, to Singapore in April.
• Budget carrier Air India Express will operate a total of 64 flights between Malaysia and India in July under Vande Bharat Mission. More below.
• Foreign nationals who wish to travel to India for medical treatment can apply for a fresh visa under this category and choose one attendant to accompany them as per the visa category provisions (that is, if the original applicant has their medical visa approved).
• On October 8, 2020, India’s civil aviation authority said the future of international flights will depend on the availability of a vaccine, hinting at the extension of air travel bubble arrangements into March-April next year.
• Low-cost carrier SpiceJet announces its new flight operations connecting Delhi and Mumbai with London, starting December 4, which will come under the India-UK air bubble agreement.
• New standard operating protocol announced August 22, 2020 for non-scheduled commercial flights under the repatriation scheme, Vande Bharat Mission, and Air Transport Bubble Agreements.

(Note: This article was originally published on August 4, 2020 and last updated on February 10, 2023.)

India Briefing  is produced by  Dezan Shira & Associates . The firm assists foreign investors throughout Asia from offices across the world, including in  Delhi  and  Mumbai . Readers may write to   [email protected]  for business support in India.

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• A. 15th June 2020

Thailand Travel Guidelines

• Open for Travel: Yes Open For Travel
• Vaccination
• Passenger 18 years old or older must provide proof of full Vaccination or proof of COVID-19 recovery not more than 6 months (180 days) passenger who does not have a vaccine must have a letter from a doctor providing the reason.
• Approved vaccine: All WHO Approved Vaccines
• Booster dose criteria: Not Applicable
• Visa on arrival
• Operating Status as per Thailand Travel Restrictions
• Thailand Travel Guidelines for tourists:
• Thailand Quarantine rules: We have to add “Apps/Portal” & “Travel Pass” section after Quarantine rules point.
• Apps/Portal: Mor Channa / Air Suvidha
• All travelers should submit self-declaration form on the online Air Suvidha portal ( www.newdelhiairport.in ) before the scheduled travel, including last 14 days travel details. Each passenger shall also submit a declaration with respect to authenticity of the report and will be liable for criminal prosecution, if found otherwise.
• Health Insurance:
• 1. Passengers from a country that has requirements which may prevent passengers to go back due to COVID -19 shall be required to have health insurance covering at least USD 10000 of treatment of COVID -19 for the itineraries in Thailand plus 7 days. Those with business arrangements, including flight crew, and students, may have a letter from the host or other form of insurance to cover such needs. 2. Holders of official and diplomatic passports and United Nations laissez-passers are exempted from health insurance requirements.
• Travel pass: Not Applicable
• Airlines Operating
• Thai Airways, Thai Smile, Indigo, GO Air

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Thailand Visa Guide

Visa Requirements:   The Royal Thai Government extends the 60-day Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme for Tourists from India and Taiwan starting from 11 May to 11 November 2024 .

MPOX ALERT :

The passenger from following countries must provide Yellow fever vaccine certificate in electronic health declaration form at http://thaihealthpass.com . Yellow fever endemic countries are:

Visa Issuance:

• Nationals of India with a normal passport traveling as tourists can obtain a visa on arrival at Bangkok (BKK and DMK), Chiang Mai (CNX), Chiang Rai (CEI), Hat Yai (HDY), Krabi (KBV), Phuket (HKT), Samui Int'l (USM), Sukhothai Int'l (THS), Surat Thani (URT) and Utapao (UTP) for a maximum stay of 60 days. They must have a confirmed return/onward ticket with a departure within 60 days from arrival date, a proof of accommodation, 1 recent passport photo and at least THB 10,000.- per person (or THB 20,000.- per family). Their passport must contain at least 1 unused visa page and the visa fee must be paid in cash only and in THB.
• Nationals of India with an emergency passport traveling as tourists can obtain a visa on arrival at Bangkok (BKK and DMK), Chiang Mai (CNX), Chiang Rai (CEI), Hat Yai (HDY), Krabi (KBV), Phuket (HKT), Samui Int'l (USM), Sukhothai Int'l (THS), Surat Thani (URT) and Utapao (UTP) for a maximum stay of 60 days. They must have a confirmed return/onward ticket with a departure within 60 days from arrival date, a proof of accommodation, 1 recent passport photo and at least THB 10,000 per person (or THB 20,000 per family). Their passport must contain at least 1 unused visa page and the visa fee must be paid in cash only and in THB.

Additional Information:

• ACMECS Single Visa issued by Cambodia and Thailand are valid for 90 days from the date of issue and are valid for a stay of 60 days in Thailand. Holders of visas issued by Cambodia (marked KHA) will be required to pay their fee for Thailand upon arrival in Thailand.
• Visitors older than 12 years who have a visa must hold sufficient funds to cover their stay (at least THB 20,000 per person or THB 40,000 per family). Proof of funds includes Letters of Credit, vouchers, Miscellaneous Charges Orders (MCO) or well-known credit cards, which are honored in Thailand.

Passport Requirement:  Passport required

Document Validity:  Passports and other documents accepted for entry must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the arrival date.

If there would be a country worth living in forever, Thailand would definitely make it to the list. Why? Well, read on to find out.

Thailand has been carrying a ‘bona fide’ tag for being one of the most popular countries in Southeast Asia. It is a country filled with beautiful nature, contemporary skyscrapers, food markets with local cuisine and cultural landmarks owing to its heritage.

Did you know that Thailand’s Bangkok is fondly known as “Big Mango” by locals? This is simpluy because mangoes happen to be a delicacy in Thailand, and the is the tropical equivalent of New York City's "Big Apple".

It is a known fact that Thailand is one of the major backpacking destinations and certainly a favourite among the retirees. So, which is the best Thailand visa for you to explore the country wholeheartedly? Let’s find out.

The Royal Thai Cabinet has approved for the Thai visa extension for temporary tourism for a stay not exceeding 30 days, effective from 11th May, 2024 to 11th November, 2024. This is your chance to visit Thailand and explore the stunning coast, beautiful hills, and peaceful islands.

Thailand visa can be applied online through their official website if you opt for pre-visa. Or you can opt for visa offline through visa-on-arrival. However, keep in mind that you will need to stay in long queues at the Suvarnabhumi airport to get an offline Thailand visa.

Obtaining a Thai visa is a hassle-free process if you follow these steps:

• You need to create an account at the Thailand official e-visa website .
• Fill in all your information at the application form.
• Upload the required documents to support your visa.
• Pay visa fee.
• Wait for the visa to be processed.
• Your approved visa will be sent by email.

You can check your visa application status by logging in at the Thai e-visa website. To receive your detailed information, you can use your visa number or your passport number to check the status of your visa application.

If you are planning to visit Thailand, here are the different types of visa you can apply.

• Tourist visa
• Transit visa
• Employment or Business visa
• Long-stay visa
• Non-immigrant ED
• Non-immigrant F Visa
• Non-immigrant O

This visa allows foreigners to enter Thailand for the purpose of tourism, leisure, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions), medical or even visiting friends who live in Thailand. This visa allows visitors to explore the country and soak in the history, nature and cultural beauty of the kingdom. An individual on a Thailand tourist visa is permitted to stay for up to 60 days. The visa can be extended further for a period of up to 30 days.

Documents for tourist visa

• A passport with at least 6 months validity
• Approx. 8 passport size photographs not older than six months
• Proof of return flight tickets
• Reservation of hotels
• Bank statement or proof of funds (at least 20,000 to 40,000 Baht per person)

Tourist visa validity

The validity of Thailand tourist visa is for 3 months or 6 months.

Stay duration of tourist visa

After you arrive at “The Land of Smiles”, travellers are permitted to stay for a maximum of 60 days. The visa can be extended to 30 additional days.

Extension of tourist visa for Thailand

Thailand is such a beautiful place so if you feel like you’re not ready to leave just yet, blame it on the city’s attractive atmosphere. From work opportunities, to settling down - the reasons to look at staying in Thailand could be many. To stay for a longer period in Thailand, or to change your visa type, you can file a request application with your concern to the Office of Immigration Bureau.

One way to explore a city within a limited timeframe is by choosing the transit visa. This is possible if you are travelling to another destination and have a long layover in Thailand.

Documents for transit visa

• Photograph taken within the last six months
• Proof of travel to third destination via Thailand
• Funds for Thailand not less than 20,000 Baht
• Visa for the third country or required travel documents

Transit visa validity

The validity of Thailand transit visa is for 3 months.

Stay duration of transit visa

If you apply for a transit visa for Thailand, you will be permitted to stay for a period of 30 days. A word of advice - For a transit visa, it is best to submit your visa application at least 15 working days before your date of travel to Thailand.

Extension of transit visa for Thailand

You can extend your Thailand transit visa on arrival to anywhere between 7 to 10 days at the Thai immigration office based on your nationality.

Thailand has two categories of employment visas - Non-immigrant B and Non-immigrant IB. As the name suggests, these visas are issued to applicants for work/business opportunities or investing in a company. But what is the difference between Non-immigrant B and Non-immigrant IB?

Non-immigrant B is for those candidates who can legally work in Thailand, including teaching. Non-immigrant IB is for those who can legally invest in certain projects under the Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI). These include export-promotion, utilising local raw materials, projects engaging the provinces to name a few.

Documents for employment visa

• Passport with validity of at least 6 months
• A letter of approval from the Ministry of Labour. The employer is required to submit Form WP3 at the Office of Foreign Workers Administration, Department of Employment, Ministry of Labour or at a Provincial Employment Office in the respective province
• Work permit issued by the Ministry of Labour (This is applicable to only those who have previously worked in Thailand)
• An employment contract mentioning the details of the work/salary/DOJ
• Educational records and letters of recommendation from the employer’s previous companies

Employment visa validity

Non-immigrant IB visa holders are granted three months, whereas, non-immigrant B single entry visa holders are granted three months, and multiple entry visa for three months up to a year.

Stay duration of employment visa

The employment visa holders are initially granted a period of 90 days. The visa can be changed to a year further instructed by the Office of Immigration Bureau.

Extension of employment visa

The employment visa for both non-immigrant B and IB can be extended upto a year. But there are certain criteria that needs to be met in order for the extension, specifically for category B. Some of the regulations for the extension of the employment visa category B are -

• The company must be Thailand registered
• The business must at least capitalise 2 Million Baht
• The employment ratio must be 4: 1, i.e., four Thai nationals and one foreigner

Thailand has long been associated as one of the best countries to spend your retirement in.  And most foreign nationals choose the islands to spend balmy days and nights. If you are at the age of 50 years and over, Thailand provides two non-immigrant category visas - Non-Immigrant O-A and Non-Immigrant O-X (which is for 10 years).

Non-immigrant O-X visa is for countries like Japan, Denmark, Australia, Finland, Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, Canada, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. And for non-Immigrant O-A, a foreigner must be a permanent resident of the country where the application is submitted.

Documents for long-stay visa

For non-immigrant O-A -

• 4 - 8 passport size photograph not older than six months
• Proof of finance, letter from the bank stating your funds/deposit not less than 800,000 Baht. Or an income certificate with your monthly income not less than 65,000 Baht.
• Certificate of criminal record and medical certificate. Both these certificates must be issued no longer than three months.

For non-immigrant O-X -

• Proof of finance, letter from the bank stating your funds/deposit not less than 3 Million Baht
• Medical certificate with clean health check from diseases like Covid-19, Leprosy, Tuberculosis, Elephantiasis, etc.
• Health insurance of Thailand, not less than 40,000 Baht as outpatient and 400,000 Baht for inpatient.

Note : Under non-immigrant O-X, the candidate can sponsor their spouse and child under the age of 20 years.

Long-stay visa validity

For long-stay in Thailand, the visa is valid for one year under non-immigrant O-A and 5 years for non-immigrant O-X.

Stay duration of long-stay visa

The applicant is allowed to stay in Thailand for one year under non-immigrant O-A. Travellers with non-immigrant O-X visa are granted a permit of five years. After five years the candidate can apply for the extension of five years.

Extension of long-stay visa

Long-stay visas can be extended for 1 year for the non-immigrant O-A and another 5 years under non-immigrant O-X after the previous 5 years.

Since its launch, on February 1, 2018, the newly designed ‘Smart Visa’ has been attracting skilled workers. This visa is mainly targeting S-Curve industries like -

• Next-Generation Automotive
• Smart Electronics
• Medical and Wellness Tourism
• Agriculture and Biotechnology
• Medical Hub
• Food Industry
• Aviation and Logistics
• Biofuels and Biochemicals

The smart visa programme is designed to enhance the country’s attractiveness in the field of science and technology, investors and start-ups.

To find out more, you can refer to the official website of Thailand

Studying in Thailand is one of the best ways to enter the country and delve into the culture and history. Millions of foreign students apply for a study visa in Thailand to some of the top schools and universities.

Documents for study visa

• Letter from the school/university confirming your admission
• Registration certificate of the school/university
• Approval letter from the authority under the Ministry of Education

Study visa validity

For a study visa in Thailand, a single-entry visa is valid for three months.

Stay duration of study visa

Even though your course of study in Thailand is one year, you will be granted a visa of 90 days. Before your visa expires, you can extend the study visa at the Thailand Immigration Department.

Extension of study visa

Study visa in Thailand will provide you 90 days initially, but you can extend your visa by producing complete educational documents at the Thailand Immigration Department.

The category F is issued to foreigners with ordinary passports who are applying for official work with either government agency, embassy or international organisation.

Documents for non-immigrant F visa

• Letter from the agency stating your purpose of visit

Non-immigrant F visa validity

For this type of visa, you will be granted a single-entry visa which will be valid for three months.

Stay duration of Non-immigrant F visa

The stay duration in Thailand with non-immigrant F is 90 days, unless instructed by the Office of Immigration Bureau.

Extension of non-immigrant F visa

The candidates wanting to extend their stay in Thailand for more than 90 days can file the application in Bangkok at the Office of Immigration Bureau.

Under the non-immigrant O visa, the candidate can enter Thailand to stay with their Thai family under the following circumstances. This is for those candidates who are not Thai but have family members of Thai nationality.

• If you are a spouse of a Thai nationality
• Children under 20 years of Thai nationality
• Adopted child of a Thai nationality
• Parent of a Thai nationality (When the child becomes a citizen of Thailand)

Documents for non-immigrant O

• Bank statement/ sponsorship
• Proof of relationship to the Thai family like marriage certificate

To know more, click here .

Non-immigrant O visa validity

Stay duration of non-immigrant o visa, extension of non-immigrant o visa.

• From 26 September 2021, there is no need for e-visa applicants to submit documents and passport in person at the Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate.
• After the e-visa is approved, you will receive an email confirming your status. You only need to print a copy of the confirmed email to provide to the airline and the Thai Immigration officials.

What are the types of Thailand visa for Indians?

For Indian passport holders, visa on arrival is available for not more than 15 days. You can apply for e-visa if you plan to stay for more than 15 days.

How much do I need for a week trip to Thailand?

It depends upon the lifestyle you are accustomed to. However, for a week in Thailand, you will need around INR 50,000.

For how long can I extend my stay in Thailand on a tourist visa?

On a tourist visa, travellers are permitted to stay for a maximum of 60 days. The visa can be extended to 30 additional days.

Can I visit Thailand without Covid-19 certificate?

With Thailand entry eased, travellers can enter the country without having to provide proof of a valid Covid-19 vaccination and Covid-19 insurance.

How long is the processing time for a Thailand visa?

Thailand processing time can take up to 7 days depending on the type of visa you have applied for.

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Home > Blog > Travel > Guidelines > Thailand travel guidelines for Indians: Let’s Get Some Thai

Thailand Travel Guidelines from India

30sec Snapshot

Here are some Thailand travel guidelines for Indian tourists:

• Indian tourists travelling to Thailand for 30 days or less can travel visa-free from 10th November 2023 to 10th May 2024. And can apply for a longer tourist visa in case they wish to stay in Thailand for longer.
• November to February is the peak tourist season to visit Thailand.
• It is necessary to be aware and avoid scams. Information about tourist sights is available online and easily accessible.
• Get travel insurance to secure yourself from any unforeseen emergencies during your travels.
• Learn some phrases in Thai to interact with locals.
• Public transport is accessible and reliable in Thailand, especially big cities like Bangkok
• There are several different options for accommodation in Thailand to meet your budget and requirements.

Entry Requirements to Thailand

The first item on the Thailand travel requirements checklist is, of course – the visa. To get a visa, it is essential to know the Thai visa requirements for Indians .

For a more extended exploration, you can opt for the Tourist Visa, allowing a stay of up to 60 days and apply for Thailand e-visa.

The Thailand visa requirements for Indian citizens are:

• Passport with at least six months validity beyond your intended stay 
• Print-out of visa application form submitted online, with barcode
• Travel booking confirmation
• Recent passport-sized photograph 
• Return ticket
• Accommodation for all nights
• Proof of sufficient funds to travel the country (THB 10,000 for individuals, approximately INR 20,000 or THB 20,000 for families, approximately INR 45,000)
• Confirmation of residence in the country where you are applying for a visa from.

Thailand visa price for Indians is THB 2,000 (for visa on arrival) but may differ depending on the city you reside in. Read more about the tourist visa requirements for Thailand for Indians

The provision of a Thailand Visa on Arrival for Indians (VoA), which grants a stay of up to 15 days, was the most popular option. However, Thailand is now0 granting visa-free travel for Indian tourists from 10 November 2023 to 10 May 2024. Indians will be permitted to stay in Thailand for 30 days during this time period under the visa-free regime.

Expert Tip:

• Book flights well in advance or consider midweek departures to get better deals. You can opt for flights with layovers to save more.
• Thailand has accommodations for all budgets and requirements. Opt for anything from hostels, luxury resorts, Airbnb or hotels.
• The prime time to visit Thailand is from November to February, although it can get crowded. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in the off-season.

Planning a Thailand Budget Trip from India: Currency, Forex & More

You may have a travel budget for Thailand, but navigating the currency and money matters is a whole other step in travel preparation.

The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB), represented by the symbol ฿. The exchange rate between the Indian Rupee and the Thai Baht fluctuates constantly, so exchanging your currency at reliable exchange counters, banks, or authorised money changers is advisable.

A key Thailand travel tip would be to use a zero forex markup travel card like the Niyo Global card and make transactions in foreign currencies at no extra cost, i.e., no currency conversion charges. The Niyo Global card allows you to load money in INR at any time before or during your trip via UPI/IMPS/NEFT. This way, you can avoid the hassle of carrying large amounts of cash. That’s not all. With the Niyo Global card, you can also enjoy complimentary airport lounge access at international terminals in India.

Join the Niyo community thread on how to spend in Thailand and budget effectively!  

• Avoid keeping all your money in one place and consider splitting it between your wallet, a money belt, and your accommodations to be safe. Be cautious of using ATMs in remote areas or those that appear suspicious. Stick to ATMs in reputable locations to minimise the risk of skimming or fraudulent activities.
• Beware of common scams involving currency exchange. 
• Avoid exchanging money on the street or with individuals who promise unbeatable rates. 

The Best Places to Visit in Thailand

If there is one thing you were looking for amongst Thailand travel guidelines, it was the- best places to visit in Thailand. Planning a budget trip to Thailand from India does not mean you have to compromise on sightseeing! Thailand is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and captivating attractions that cater to every kind of traveller. Let’s dive into some of the must-visit places that continue to captivate the hearts of Indian travellers:

• Bangkok : We could actually make an entire Bangkok travel guide! The vibrant capital city is a whirlwind of experiences. Bangkok has everything from the grandeur of the Grand Palace and the spiritual aura of Wat Phra Kaew to the bustling markets and electrifying nightlife. Take advantage of taking a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and indulging in delectable street food, and look out for an actual Bangkok travel guide to get the full experience of this beautiful city.

Visit the Wat Saket temple at sunset – it is the only mound in the city and offers some beautiful views of the modern cityscape and the older parts of Bangkok!

And if you like road trips, rent a scooter and ride to Pai, a backpacker’s paradise just two hours away. It is even more laid back than Chiang Mai!

• Phuket  This island paradise is synonymous with stunning beaches, azure waters, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking to relax on Patong Beach, explore the vibrant markets, or indulge in water sports, Phuket promises an unforgettable experience.
• Chiang Mai : Nestled in the northern region, Chiang Mai exudes a laid-back charm. It’s well-known for its temples, lush landscapes, and the famous Yi Peng Lantern Festival. Exploring the old city’s narrow lanes, interacting with elephants at ethical sanctuaries, and visiting the Doi Suthep Temple are just a few highlights.
• Krabi : If you’re travelling to Thailand for the first time, don’t miss visiting Krabi! With its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear waters, and idyllic beaches, Krabi is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Railay Beach, Ao Nang, and the Phi Phi Islands are among the top spots to explore.
• Ayutthaya : Immerse yourself in history at Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand and their version of Ayodhya! The UNESCO-listed ruins showcase the grandeur of the former kingdom, making it a favourite among history enthusiasts.
• Pattaya: Beyond its vibrant nightlife, Pattaya offers diverse attractions, including the stunning Sanctuary of Truth, the vibrant Pattaya Floating Market, and the family-friendly Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark.
• Koh Samui: Known for its palm-fringed beaches and luxury resorts, Koh Samui provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore the Ang Thong Marine Park, discover the Big Buddha, and enjoy the island’s infamous nightlife.
• Hua Hin : This coastal town is a favourite weekend getaway for both locals and tourists. Its serene beaches, night markets, and iconic Hua Hin Railway Station offer a unique blend of relaxation and exploration.

Thailand may be known for its beaches, but it also offers a beautiful landscape. Doi Ithanon, Doi Ang Khang and Phu Chi Fa are some popular tourist spots. Read more about trekking in Thailand  

Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, relaxation by the beach, or thrilling adventures, Thailand’s diverse destinations promise an enriching experience for Indian travellers.

In a Nutshell

Some of the best places to visit in Thailand are:

• Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Chao Phraya River, Wat Saket Temple. Pai, street food markets, night markets
• Phuket: Patong Beach, Kata Beach, Old Phuket town
• Chiang Mai: Yi Peng Lantern Festival, Doi Suthep Temple, elephant sanctuaries
• Krabi: Railay beach, Ao Nang, Phi Phi Islands, Tiger cave temple
• Ayutthaya: Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Maha That
• Pattaya: Nightlife, Sanctuary of Truth, Pattaya Floating Market, Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark
• Koh Samui: Ang Thong Marine Park, big Buddha
• Hua Hin: Hua Hin railway station, beaches

To-Dos for Indian Tourists in Thailand

Here are some last-minute Thailand travel guidelines that will take you that extra mile of joy:

• Pack Light : Opt for versatile clothing items and pack only what you’ll truly need. Remember to leave some space for souvenirs on your return journey.
• Stay Hydrated: Thailand’s climate can be hot and humid. Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated while exploring.
• Use Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Sunburn can put a damper on your trip.
• Stay Connected: Consider getting a local SIM card with data to easily navigate and stay in touch with loved ones.
• Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and sacred sites. Remove your shoes before entering religious buildings.
• Ferries and Boats: In areas like Bangkok and Phuket, ferries and boats are common for reaching nearby islands and exploring waterways.

The Weather  

Use the BTS and MRT: Bangkok’s Skytrain and subway systems are clean, reliable, and provide easy access to major attractions. Purchase single-journey tickets or day passes for convenience.

Plan Routes: Utilise maps, apps, and transportation websites to plan routes and check schedules. Google Maps often provides accurate public transportation information.

• Cash and Change: Carry small denominations of Thai Baht for buses and tuk-tuks, as they may not always have change for larger bills.

Navigating Thailand’s transportation system is an exciting part of the travel experience. Whether you’re zipping through city streets in a tuk-tuk or enjoying the scenic landscapes from a train window, each mode of transport offers its unique charm and insight into the local way of life.

The Weather 

Rainy Season: Thailand’s rainy season typically falls between June and October. Carry a small umbrella or raincoat to stay dry.

Hot and Humid Climate: Pack lightweight and breathable clothing to stay comfortable in Thailand’s tropical climate.

Staying Connected:

Local SIM Cards: Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport or in town. This will give you internet access and make navigation and communication hassle-free. Bangkok has strong 5G too !

A zero forex markup card for all those international transactions: Get a travel card like the Niyo Global for the best travel expenditure experience!

Have travel insurance: Protect yourself from unexpected events that could derail your perfectly enjoyable trip.

Staycation Accommodation!

Thailand travel tips involve the most budget-friendly accommodation options in Thailand that cater to a wide range of budgets and preferences, ensuring that every traveller can find a comfortable and suitable place to stay. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, or unique Airbnb stays, Thailand has it all. Here are some accommodations that fit into Thailand travel guidelines that you can check out based on your travel budget for Thailand . 

• Hotels: Thailand boasts a diverse array of hotels, from opulent luxury resorts to boutique accommodations. Luxury hotels often offer stunning beachfront views, spa facilities, and world-class amenities.
• Hostels: For budget-conscious travellers, hostels are a popular choice. They provide shared dormitory-style rooms and communal spaces, making them ideal for meeting fellow travellers.
• Airbnb : Airbnb offers a range of options, including private apartments, cosy cottages, and unique stays like treehouses and traditional Thai houses. Airbnb accommodations can provide a local touch and give you a glimpse into everyday life.

Thailand Travel Tips for Indian Tourists

A. thailand travel tips for health.

There are currently no important Thailand travel restrictions when it comes to health. Ensuring your health and safety while travelling in Thailand is of utmost importance. However, there are some Thailand travel requirements related to health that you must keep in mind.

Consult a healthcare professional for necessary vaccinations and health advice before embarking on your journey. An essential part of the Thailand travel guidelines involves getting standard vaccinations. These include vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, and influenza. Protect yourself from potential health risks and ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

B.Thailand Travel Tips for Safety and Security

While Thailand is generally a safe destination for tourists, every Thailand travel guide will tell you to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. 

• Be cautious of tuk-tuk drivers offering unusually low prices or free rides to various attractions: These offers often lead to high-pressure sales tactics at souvenir shops or overpriced tours with little value. 
• Be wary of individuals who claim that certain temples or sites are closed for the day: They might guide you to other establishments for profit.

Expert Tip: 

Google Maps is very reliable in such situations – check the timings of the attractions you want to visit and the live “how busy is it” graph.

• Get travel insurance:   It ensures your peace of mind during your travels. Travel insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other unexpected events. Opting for a comprehensive travel insurance policy that aligns with your needs and covers potential risks is recommended. In a medical emergency or unforeseen circumstances, travel insurance can be your safety net, providing financial assistance and support when needed. 

C. Cultural Travel Tips.

Even if you’re travelling to Thailand for the first time, immersing yourself in Thai culture is an enriching experience that enhances your travel. As a visitor, there are several do’s and don’ts to keep in mind to respect local norms. Here are a few key things to know before going to Thailand.

• Do remove your footwear before entering temples, homes, and some shops. 
• Don’t touch people’s heads, as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture. 
• Avoid public displays of affection, such as hugging and kissing.
• When visiting temples and religious sites, modest attire is essential to show respect. Both men and women should avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing. Wearing long pants or a long skirt is recommended to cover your shoulders with a shawl or scarf.
• When it comes to cultural etiquette, a simple “wai” gesture can go a long way. The wai is a traditional Thai greeting made by pressing your palms together in a prayer-like manner and bowing slightly. Like our Namaste!

D. Tips for Language and Communication.

• There are no specific Thailand travel restrictions for health. It is recommended to take common vaccinations to protect yourself from potential health risks.
• It is necessary to be cautious of scams in tourist areas. 
• Get travel insurance to protect yourself against any emergency.
• Follow local etiquette, wear modest clothing when visiting temples. Avoid wearing shoes inside houses, temples and some shops. Avoid PDA
• Learn some common phrases in the local language to interact with locals and communicate better.

Read more about overcoming language barriers and learn to ingratiate yourself with the locals at any tourist destination!

Thai Food that Indians Must Try

Whatever your travel budget for Thailand may be, make room for Thai cuisine. This culinary journey will tantalise your taste buds with its bold flavours, aromatic herbs, and vibrant spices. For Indian travellers, exploring Thai cuisine offers a delightful experience, with plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans. Many Thai dishes are inherently plant-based or can be easily customised to suit dietary preferences.

How to plan a trip to Thailand ? By the list of these must-try dishes, of course! 

• Pad Thai: A beloved street food, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish that’s often made of tofu, vegetables, crushed peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce.
• Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad):  A refreshing salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and a zesty dressing. Skip the dried shrimp to keep it vegetarian.
• Tom Yum Soup:  A spicy and sour soup infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai chilli peppers. Although it usually has meat or seafood, you can opt for the vegetable version for a burst of flavour.
• Massaman Curry:  This rich curry features potatoes, peanuts, and vegetables in a coconut milk-based sauce. It’s available in both vegetarian and vegan variations.
• Pad See Ew:  Wide rice noodles stir-fried with soy sauce, Chinese broccoli, and tofu make for a comforting and flavourful dish.

You can’t miss these popular Street Food Markets under any circumstance! Here are a few.

• Chatuchak Weekend Market (Bangkok:  This iconic market offers an array of street food stalls serving everything from mango sticky rice to skewered grilled mushrooms.
• Khao San Road (Bangkok): Known as the backpacker hub, this lively street is lined with vendors selling everything from spring rolls to coconut ice cream.
• Walking Street Market (Chiang Mai:   Sample local delicacies like khao soi (curry noodle soup) and explore an array of vegetarian-friendly options.
• Phuket Weekend Market:     Feast on delectable street food, including traditional Thai food as well as vegan options, such as spring rolls and fresh fruit juices.
• Rot Fai Night Market (Bangkok): Discover a variety of street food delights, including Thai pancakes filled with sweet and savoury fillings.
• Pai Walking Street (Pai): This charming market offers an array of non-vegetarian, vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as pad Thai with tofu and fresh fruit smoothies.

Thai cuisine is a culinary adventure that caters to every palate!

Some popular Thai dishes are Pad Thai, Tom Yum Soup, Green Papaya Salad, Massaman Curry, Pad See Ew

Popular street food markets in Thailand include

• Chatuchak weekend market (Bangkok)
• Khao San road (Bangkok)
• Walking street market (Chiang Mai)
• Phuket Weekend Market (Phuket)
• Rot Fai night market (Bangkok)
• Pai walking street (Pai)

Don’t skip indulging in decadent Thai cuisine! Withdraw local currency or pay with the Niyo Global card.

How to Get Around Thailand?

Know how to travel in Thailand on your own. Navigating transportation in Thailand is an adventure in itself, offering a variety of options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Here’s a quick look at transportation options within the country:

• Tuk-Tuks: These three-wheelers are a quintessential mode of transportation in Thailand. Tuk-tuks are often used for short distances and provide a fun way to explore local areas. Almost all Thailand travel guidelines will recommend negotiating fares beforehand.
• Taxis:  Metered taxis are available in major cities like Bangkok and offer a convenient way to get around. Ensure the driver uses the metre or agrees on a fare before starting the ride. You could also download the Grab taxi app (like Uber) to get the cheapest taxi fares anywhere in the country.
• Buses: Public buses are an affordable way to travel within cities and between provinces. Buses come in various types, including air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned options starting at THB 8 (INR 19) for a ticket on a route.
• Skytrains and Subways: Bangkok boasts of an efficient Skytrain (BTS) and subway (MRT) system that connects key areas of the city. These systems are particularly useful for avoiding traffic congestion
• Trains:   Thailand’s railway network connects different regions of the country, providing scenic journeys. Overnight sleeper trains are a popular option for longer trips.
• Ferries and Boats:   In areas like Bangkok and Phuket, ferries and boats are common for reaching nearby islands and exploring waterways.

How to get around Thailand by public transportation?

• Use the BTS and MRT:   Bangkok’s Skytrain and subway systems are clean, reliable, and provide easy access to major attractions. Purchase single-journey tickets or day passes for convenience.
• Plan Routes:   Utilise maps, apps, and transportation websites to plan routes and check schedules. Google Maps often provides accurate public transportation information.

Tourists can travel around Thailand via tuk-tuks, taxis, buses, sky trains and subways, trains, ferries and buses. Using maps and transportation websites to plan routes and check schedules is important. Small denominations of cash are often required for buses and tuk-tuks.

Shopping and Souvenirs in Thailand

If there is one takeaway you’ll have from these Thailand travel guidelines, let it be this, shopping in Thailand is a delightful experience, offering a mix of modern malls, vibrant markets, and street stalls. Indian travellers can explore various shopping destinations to find unique items and souvenirs.

• Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok: This iconic market is a treasure trove for shoppers. With thousands of stalls offering clothing, accessories, home décor, and more, it’s a must-visit for finding souvenirs and gifts.
• Asiatique The Riverfront, Bangkok: Asiatique combines a night bazaar and a mall. It offers a range of products, from fashion and handicrafts to beauty products and antiques.
• Walking Street Market, Chiang Mai: This vibrant market comes alive in the evenings and is perfect for exploring local crafts, clothing, and street food.
• Phuket Night Market: Located in Phuket Town, this market is known for its lively atmosphere and a mix of clothing, accessories, electronics, and local food

Expert Tip: Icon Siam Waterfront Mall, Bangkok: Multi-storey mall on the riverside with a ferry service and a busy food court. If you want to buy Apple products – this is one of the cheapest places in the world (and you can buy directly from the Apple showroom) – don’t forget to collect your tax refund while flying out of Thailand.

But what are these markets famous for?

• Silk Products: Thailand is famous for its high-quality silk. Look for silk scarves, shawls, and garments that make for elegant and luxurious souvenirs
• Elephant-Themed Souvenirs: Elephants hold cultural significance in Thailand. You’ll find a range of elephant-themed items, from clothing and accessories to figurines and artwork.
• Thai Spa Products:Take a piece of relaxation home with you – go for aromatic oils, herbal balms, and natural spa products used in traditional Thai massages.
• Local Handicrafts: Thai craftsmanship shines through intricate wood carvings, pottery, ceramics, and traditional jewellery. These pieces reflect the rich cultural heritage of the country.
• Traditional Thai Artwork: Consider buying paintings, sculptures, or intricate masks that showcase Thailand’s unique artistic traditions.
• Thai Snacks and Spices: Pack your bags with Thai snacks like dried mangoes, coconut candies, and savoury snacks. You can also bring back Thai spices to add a touch of Thai cuisine to your home cooking.

Popular markets for shopping in Thailand include:

• Chatuchak Weekend Market (Bangkok)
• Asiatique The Riverfront (Bangkok)
• Walking Street Market (Chiang Mai)
• Phuket Night Market (Phuket)

These markets are famous for silk, elephant-themed souvenirs, Thai spa products, local handicrafts, traditional Thai artwork, Thai snacks and spices. Always remember to bargain politely to get the best deals!

Travel Thailand with the best plan at hand, with the best travel insurance suited to your needs.  

Key Takeaways

• Thailand beckons with its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, making it an ideal getaway for Indian travellers. 
• Navigate visa requirements and application processes wisely, ensuring a smooth entry into this captivating country.
• Time your visit to enjoy the best weather and, avoid crowds, and familiarise yourself with the Thai Baht and money-handling tips. 
• Prioritise health and safety by getting necessary vaccinations, avoiding common scams, and obtaining travel insurance for peace of mind as a self-imposed entry requirement to Thailand. 
• Immerse yourself in the vibrant shopping scene, collecting unique souvenirs and gifts. 
• Bargain with grace, prepare for the weather, and stay connected with loved ones.
• With these insights in your travel toolkit, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Thailand, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Indian tourists can travel to Thailand visa-free from 10 November 2023 to 10 May 2024 for a maximum of 30 days. Tourists visiting for over 30 days need to apply for a Thailand tourist visa and can stay in the country for 3 to 6 months.

Thailand visa on arrival for Indians is no longer required as Indians can travel to Thailand visa-free from 10th November 2023 to 10 May 2024.

You can exchange Indian Rupees for Thai Baht at authorised currency exchange counters in Thailand, banks, or currency exchange bureaus. It’s advisable to exchange your money at these official outlets to get a competitive exchange rate. Alternatively, you can use travel cards like Niyo Global, which offers zero foreign exchange fees.

To stay healthy during your Thailand trip, avoid tap water and opt for bottled or boiled water. Be cautious with street food and ensure it’s freshly cooked. Use mosquito repellent to protect against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and Zika virus. Carry a basic medical kit with essentials like pain relievers, antacids, and any prescription medications.

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I just returned from a Thailand vacation; these are my tips for yours

On 1 February, Thailand made it easier for travellers to visit the country by dropping the quarantine for several categories of tourists. Seven days later, my husband Prateek and I jumped on a flight to Bangkok for a much-needed vacation. Getting to Thailand seemed a tedious affair for the sheer amount of paperwork required, but once you have the documents in place, the process is quite simple. We had a wonderful time, and if you are planning a holiday in Thailand, here’s how to do it right. Do note that the rules are subject to change, so it’s best to check with your airline and the official channels for the latest.

Travel to Thailand: The big points

• Thailand recognises several vaccines including AstraZeneca or Covishield, Pfizer–BioNTech, Sinopharm, Sputnik V and Covaxin.
• You will need to take RT-PCR tests: one before boarding and then again on arrival, no matter what your vaccination status. If you stay five days and more, you need to take a second RT-PCR test on Day 5.
• You will have to check in to a hotel certified by the government, till you await your Day 1 RT-PCR test results.
• A vaccination certificate is not required for children below 18 travelling together with their parents. However, they should register for the Thai Pass QR Code together with their parents/guardians and not separately (more on the Thai Pass later).

Travel to Thailand: the paperwork you need

You need to sign up for the ‘Thai Pass’ to enter the country. One can currently obtain this Thai Pass through one of three ways.

Option 1: Test and Go

• This option was originally only available for travellers from low-risk countries. From 1 February, this option allows fully vaccinated travellers from virtually every country around the world (including India) to enter Thailand and travel domestically with minimal restrictions.
• The only mandatory requirement is to take a one-day quarantine + RT-PCR test at your hotel on Day 1 of landing and, again, a mandatory pre-booked RT-PCR test on Day 5, if you stay that long. If you test negative on Day 1, you are free to travel without restrictions in Thailand. However, on both day 1 and 5, it is mandatory for travellers to stay in a SHA Extra+ or AQ hotel. You can either stay in the same hotel OR be in different hotels in two different locations on Days 1 and 5. List of SHA Extra+ Hotels here ; List of AQ Hotels here

Option 2: The Blue Zone Sandbox Programme

• This option allows vaccinated travellers to stay in a pre-booked SHA Extra+ hotel within a sandbox area for seven nights, inclusive of airport pick-up, post which they can travel within Thailand without restrictions.
• This is the original programme that was started by the Thai government for provinces that had a vaccination rate of 70% and more. The test and go option, which recently expanded to all countries, allows for more flexibility as you are allowed to travel between provinces from Day 2 itself. Sandbox provinces include: Bangkok; Krabi; Phuket; Surat Thani. Full list of locations here .

Option 3: Alternative Quarantine (for non-vaccinated travellers)

• This option allows un-vaccinated tourists to stay in a pre-approved and pre-booked accommodation for 7/10/14 days, post which, they are able to travel within Thailand without restrictions. You are not allowed to leave the alternative quarantine for the duration of your programme.

We chose to enter Thailand with Option 1: Test and Go . For this, you need the Thai Pass, and these are the bold points:

• Visit the Thai Pass website .
• Processing time: 3-7 days (it normally comes through in 3 days)
• Documents that you need to submit online:
• Copy of passport
• Confirmed flight tickets
• Travel insurance with minimum $50,000USD coverage (which includes COVID coverage). It will cost you approximately Rs1,000.
• Day 1 hotel reservation in a ‘SHA Extra+/AQ hotel. The reservation must expressly include airport pick-up and one RT-PCR test and meals. You can either search for hotels that offer this Test and Go Package or directly reach out to certified hotels to provide you with the above requirement. A soft copy of the confirmed booking which includes these requirements are a must.
• Day 5 hotel reservation in a ‘SHA Extra+/AQ hotel, which must expressly include one RT-PCR test. However, if you are in Phuket, you have to pre-book a pre-paid RT-PCR test yourself and separately upload this booking receipt in your application. Check list of centres here .
• Full vaccination certificate (recognised vaccines include AstraZeneca or Covishield, Pfizer–BioNTech, Sinopharm, Sputnik V and Covaxin by Bharat Biotech International Limited)

Make sure that you have all all the above documents in place, particularly ensuring that your hotels are all SHA Extra + certified and that your Day 1 PCR test is included and prepaid in your booking and your Day 5 PCR test is either included in your booking or pre-paid via the official Thai RT-PCR test appointment website. If any document is missing, your Thai pass gets rejected and you will have to re-apply. More FAQs on the Thai Pass here .

Thailand visa for Indian travellers

• We chose to get our visa after we got our Thai Pass as it is not mandatory to have a visa in hand (for Indian citizens) while applying for a Thai pass.
• You can either opt for the regular stamped visa in person via VFS or, alternatively, apply for an e-visa online here . We choose to apply for an e-visa ourselves and below are the requirements for the same.
• While the visa-on-arrival option is available, we highly recommend taking either of the two options to ensure smoother travel.
• The Thailand e-visa will cost you THB 2,500 (Rs5,800) with a processing time of 3-7 days.

Negative RT-PCR report

Once you have your Thai Pass and Thailand visa in hand, you also need to ensure that you have a negative PCR test with a QR code–with a 72-hour validity window prior to your flight.

Travelling to Thailand

Day 1: Mumbai to Bangkok

At the airport in India, the airlines review the following documents before giving you your boarding pass:

• Visa/e-visa
• Negative RT-PCR test report (with QR Code)
• Vaccination certificate
• Health insurance

When we travelled, there were only two airline options out of India—Air India and Thai Airways. We chose to travel Air India as the timing was more suitable. Our flight was close to 70% full with mostly business travellers.

Similarly, once you land at Bangkok, there is an additional desk set up where they again scan your Thai Pass QR Code before letting you through to immigration. The remainder of the procedure is the same as before.

As you exit the luggage hall, numerous hotels have set up temporary booths with hotel signboards and representatives. You need to find your hotel representative, who will take you to your vehicle. It is mandatory to take this pre-booked airport transfer.

Once you reach the hotel room, all meals are served in-room itself. For us, an RT-PCR test was also conducted on the hotel premises. The results typically come within 8-10 hours, which your hotel hands over to you. Post a negative report, you can continue with your regular holiday either at the same/different hotel or anywhere else in Thailand. We flew out to Phuket on Day 2 of our trip. Domestic flights are simple and the only document they check is your vaccination certificate.

Days 2-4: To Phuket

At Phang Nga Bay

We spent our initial days exploring Phuket Old Town, an area of historical interest with beautiful Sino-Portuguese townhouses and fantastic restaurants. We also did a day trip to Phang Nga National Park, a stunning bay characterised by limestone cliffs and Mangroves. Both locations at the start of February were largely empty and we were left to explore things at our own pace and schedule.

Day 5: Phuket and thereabouts

Our hotel in Phuket was ‘SHA Extra+ certified’ and on Day 5, we made our way ourselves to the pre-booked appointment at the swab centre. The results of Day 5 came within 24 hours on our email. It is recommended to isolate yourself from time of test to the result. Besides the above, we didn't face any issue while travelling within Thailand as everyone was extremely cooperative and helpful.

The hotel in Phuket

Our return flight to India was smooth—you no longer need an RT-PCR prior to boarding or on arrival. We just had to fill out the Air Suvidha form 48 hours prior to our return flight.

What it’s like to be in Thailand right now

As with everywhere in the world, small and large businesses in Thailand have suffered tremendously due to the pandemic, and one can see the signs. Though several restaurants, night markets and shops have shut, many of the popular ones are now open. Mask mandates and temperature checks are followed strictly in the larger cities and restaurants and bars are open till around 11pm. It’s always good to check their timings before planning your meals.

Despite these restrictions, we had a wonderful holiday in Thailand. We tried to support both small and large businesses where we could, and are grateful to all the Thai people who made us feel so welcome in their Land of Smiles.

The writer is an entrepreneur who runs O’Aido , a new bar in Goa

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Thailand opens to Indians, all that you need to know to plan a trip

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , THAILAND / Created : Nov 7, 2021, 17:30 IST

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​​Travellers can choose from a list of 17 destinations, called as ​sandbox destinations. Visitors will have to stay for seven nights in one of these destinations; afterwards, they are free to move to any of the other parts of Thai … Read more

​​Travellers can choose from a list of 17 destinations, called as ​sandbox destinations. Visitors will have to stay for seven nights in one of these destinations; afterwards, they are free to move to any of the other parts of Thailand. If you have been wondering about these 17 sandbox destinations, here is the list. Read less

More from Travel News

• A certificate of Vaccination (fully vaccinated) with an approved vaccine at least 14 days before travelling.
• Those previously infected within 3 months must have received 1 dose of an approved vaccine at least 14 days before travelling.
• Travellers under 12 years of age, travelling with parents or guardians, are exempt from the vaccination requirement.
• A Medical Certificate with an RT-PCR lab result indicating that COVID-19 is not detected issued no more than 72 hours before travelling (all travellers).
• A confirmed payment for a 1-night stay at SHA+, AQ, OQ, or AHQ accommodation, and 1 RT-PCR test.
• An insurance policy with coverage no less than US$50,000.

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How to Travel from India to Thailand: A Comprehensive Guide

Traveling from India to Thailand is an exciting experience for any traveler. The two countries offer a plethora of cultural, historical, and natural attractions and offer a diverse range of activities for visitors to enjoy. If you’re planning a trip from India to Thailand, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to make your journey a success.

The first step in planning your trip from India to Thailand is to decide how you’d like to travel. The most popular way to get to Thailand from India is by air, with direct flights available from major cities in India to Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. If you’d prefer to travel by land, there are also buses and trains running between India and Thailand. While this is a cheaper option, it is also much more time consuming.

Once you’ve made your decision on how to travel, the next step is to apply for a visa. Citizens of India require a visa to enter Thailand, and the process of obtaining one is fairly straightforward. You will need to complete an online application, submit supporting documents, and pay a fee. The processing time for visas can vary, so it’s important to apply as soon as you can to ensure you don’t experience any delays.

When it comes to choosing an accommodation for your stay in Thailand, you’ll find a variety of options. Hotels and resorts are popular choices, as are guesthouses and hostels. To get the best deals, it’s usually a good idea to book your accommodation in advance. This will ensure you get the best rates and avoid disappointment on arrival.

Now that the practicalities of your trip are taken care of, it’s time to start planning your itinerary. Thailand is a large country with a range of attractions, from bustling cities to stunning beaches. Bangkok is the country’s capital and provides plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained, while Chiang Mai and Phuket are popular destinations for beach lovers. If you’re looking to experience more of the country’s culture, Ayutthaya and Sukhothai are great places to explore.

Whether you’re traveling to Thailand on a budget or looking to splurge, make sure you take the time to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of this beautiful country. From the Thai cuisine to the vibrant nightlife, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to make memories that will last a lifetime.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well on your way to having a successful and enjoyable trip from India to Thailand. With the right preparation and planning, your journey is sure to be a memorable one.

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Thailand Announces Quarantine-free Travel For 45 Countries. When Will Indians Be Allowed?

International travel latest news: the indian travellers will still have to undergo quarantine upon their arrival in thailand for at least 7 nights before traveling to other cities..

Published: October 22, 2021 7:06 PM IST

By India.com News Desk | Edited by Manmath Nayak

International Travel Latest News Today: As the coronavirus cases have gone down, Thailand on Friday announced quarantine-free guidelines for visitors from 45 countries. This has been done to revive the economy which has been struggling to recover from the collapse of its tourism sector. The prominent countries that have been allowed by Thailand include Canada, Singapore and China. However, India does not figure in it.

The 45 countries that are allowed for quarantine-free entry to Thailand at the moment include includes Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UAE, UK, USA, and Hong Kong, Tat News reported.

As per reports by media portals, the coronavirus pandemic has cost Thailand about 3 million tourism-dependent jobs and an estimated $50 billion a year in revenue.

It must be noted that Bangkok and other top destinations such as Pattaya, Hua Hin, Krabi and Chiang Mai will reopen for vaccinated visitors from 45 nations, who must produce negative COVID-19 tests before and after arrival, plus COVID-19 insurance cover of at least $50,000.

COVID-19 Not Over Yet: 'Deadly Infection Spreading, Killing 1700 Globally Every Week', Warns WHO

Six Foreign Nationals Found Dead In Bangkok Luxury Hotel, Murder Suspected; Thai PM Orders Probe

Thailand Becomes First Southeast Asian Country To Recognise Same-Sex Marriage, Supporters Say 'Monumental Step'

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Thailand travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Thailand travel in 2024 with official Thailand travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Since travel restrictions can vary by citizenship, we will be focusing our post on rules that affect U.S. citizens.

Last update: February 2, 2024. Originally published: November 2021.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

February 2024: “My husband and I are in Thailand for a two-month stay. There don’t seem to be any travel restrictions. Tourism is running normally, but many people still wear masks, especially in places like the metro or on ferries. Some businesses and attractions have closed since Covid. If you have asthma or other breathing issues, watch the air quality index (The Air4Thai app works well.) and plan your trip accordingly.” –  Rachel Heller of World Heritage Net , Dutch traveler

At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to Thailand so you can get a sense of what to expect.

Table of Contents

Is Thailand open for travel? Can I travel to Thailand right now?

Thailand is currently open for foreign travelers.

As of October 2022 , proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test result are no longer required from travelers. In addition, proof of vaccination is no longer required to attend crowded events. 

Travelers holding US passports can enter Thailand for tourism purposes without the need to obtain a visa for stays up to 30 days on each visit. Thailand temporarily extended this visa exemption to 45 days for arrivals previously. However, as of April 2023, visa-free entries has reverted back to 30 days.

Travelers can always extend the standard 30 days for another 30 days by applying at a local Immigration Office and paying 1900 baht.

Travelers from countries not on the visa exemption list must apply for a Special Tourist Visa (STV) to enter Thailand as tourists.

Thailand travel restrictions and limitations may sometimes apply only in certain regions. Monitor Thailand travel news here .

A new tourist fee will soon be required to enter Thailand, but the start date has been postponed as of December 2023. This fee will be built into plane ticket costs and is only about $9 US. There will be no payment on arrival if arriving by air, but it’s unclear how the fee will work at land and sea borders.

Quarantine rules in Thailand: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers who test positive for Covid while in Thailand are asked to self-isolate for at least 5 days at the traveler’s expense. However, quarantine is no longer mandatory or being enforced. 

Quarantine should end after taking a PCR test with negative result. Those with severe symptoms will be admitted to the hospital.

Can I travel to Thailand in August 2024? Can I travel to Thailand this Summer?

Travel to Thailand in August is open . Please read on for details and check back for updates.

What is it like to fly to Thailand BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport or DMK Don Mueang Bangkok Airport right now? Thai Airways reports that the face mask mandate has been relaxed. Airports can be busy at times and crowds may be difficult to avoid.

Do I have to quarantine when traveling to Thailand? No. See details above.

Does Thailand check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Health checks are no longer common for incoming travelers.

Does Thailand require a negative Covid 19 test for travelers? No. As of October 2022, a negative Covid test is no longer required.

Does Thailand require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for travelers? No. As of October 2022, a proof of vaccination is no longer required.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? No. Travelers are no longer required to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Thailand? At this time, booster shots are not required in Thailand. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

What Covid testing options are available for travelers in Thailand? PCR and antigen tests are available in Thailand. Foreign travelers can get a Covid test at the National Institute of Health, 14 Regional Medical Sciences Centers, and private hospitals in Thailand.

Covid PCR tests range from 2,500 to 10,000 Thai baht (approximately $74-$311). Test results are available within 72 hours. ATK tests are available for cheap at 711 convenience stores for 40+ baht.

See the list of Covid testing centers here.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Thailand who get the virus? Thailand’s private healthcare services are generally very good. Hospitals and clinics in Thailand are open to foreign travelers.

Treatment for Covid-19 may cost more than 100,000 Thai baht. Travelers will pay for their medical expenses or use a travel insurance.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Thailand? Restaurants, street food, malls, department stores, and other establishments are open in Thailand. Pubs, bars, karaoke outlets and other entertainment venues are now operating at their normal hours.

Are face masks required in Thailand? Wearing of masks is now voluntary in public and indoor places, except health care facilities. Some businesses may request face masks inside. 

Are buses running in Thailand? Public transportation is available in Thailand. Masks are no longer required but still encouraged. A majority of riders still wear masks on public transit, especially in Bangkok.

Will Thailand impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, most countries impose COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system might become unsustainable. Thailand has been relatively proactive when it comes to preventive Covid measures, balanced with the need to keep the tourism industry open.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Thailand?

Thailand reported its first case of Covid infection last January 2020. Although there have been outbreaks in the following months, Thailand was successful in containing the pandemic throughout most of 2020.

Unfortunately, in April 2021, the country experienced uncontrolled resurgence of infections, ranking Thailand fourth in the number of cases in Southeast Asia.

In response to the pandemic, preventive measures such as contact tracing, lockdown measures, and international travel restrictions were implemented. These slowed the country’s economy and Thailand’s tourist industry has been severely affected. Thailand’s State of Emergency ended September 30, 2022.

To revive tourism, the islands of Phuket and Samui reopened with a “Sandbox” program to vaccinated foreign travelers in July 2021. In October 2021, Thailand travel restrictions were eased for foreign travelers. In December 2021, the Test & Go program which allowed quarantine-free entry was suspended amid the spread of the Omicron variant.

In 2022, Thailand eased entry restrictions. The color-coded system, which placed limits on travel, dining, entertainment activities, and gatherings, has been removed.

Vaccinations in Thailand began at the end of February 2021. About 2/3 of the population have been vaccinated.

For the current situation in Thailand, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in Thailand; and COVID-19 testing in Thailand, please see the following Thailand Ministry of Public Health site and Facebook page .

What should you pack for safely traveling in Thailand?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are recommended in crowded public places. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Thai locals and recent travelers say about visiting Thailand now?

What is it like to visit Thailand right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect. The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

September 2023 – Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels , Australian travelers:  “We are living a nomadic retirement and arrived in Koh Samui, Thailand, in July and are staying two months. Thailand, in general, is nearly back to pre-covid tourist numbers and you can feel an optimism in the air amongst the locals. 

There are no travel restrictions here in Thailand, however, you will still see many locals wearing facemasks. Hospitals and some medical clinics are advertising Covid testing so it is accessible if required. There are certain tourist areas where you can visually see the aftermath of Covid i.e. deserted hotels that have fallen into disrepair, closed restaurants, etc., but in general, you will have no problems finding accommodation, restaurants selling great Thai food, massages, or shopping opportunities. It is now heading into the monsoon season here in Koh Samui so we have seen a huge reduction in tourists.”

May 2023 – Nat Deduck of Love and Road , Brazilian digital nomad: “I’ve been living in Phuket, Thailand for a year. Tourism in Thailand is back to normal, and apart from some Thais wearing masks, you probably won’t even remember that covid existed here. An interesting fact is that local Thais used masks way before the pandemic, so it’s a habit that got intensified after Covid.

Thailand’s tourism is in full swing. This high season (Dec-March) felt as busy as back in 2019 when we were here before Covid. Attractions, hotels, and places to visit are fully open and ready to service tourists.

Most tourists don’t wear masks, but if you feel the need to do so it’s available in every pharmacy, supermarket, and convenience shop. The same for the Covid tests, you can do it by yourself, or you can go to any clinic or hospital to do a PCR test if needed. Hospitals are back to regular services here in Phuket and Bangkok, my husband and I had to see a doctor and everything went smoothly. There was no restriction to be treated because of the pandemic, and no overflow covid cases.”

February 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We flew to Bangkok from Vietnam. Air Asia did not check our onward flight nor ask for any Covid documentation, only passports. Masking on the plane was not required but many wore face coverings, including all the crew.

Immigration wasn’t too long a wait at DMK in the evening. Just showed passport, boarding pass, took a photo, and fingerprints. At the moment, U.S. passports get 45 days in Thailand without a visa.

We later flew from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, took a bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, and flew out of Chiang Mai to Vietnam . Thai airports were playing recorded announcements advising passengers to mask and socially distance, though it wasn’t enforced.

The entire building where we stayed in Bangkok required masks in common areas. On BTS public transit, an announcement is made in English that mask laws have relaxed but face coverings are still highly encouraged. At least 90% of passengers wear masks on public transit.

In Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, we also saw notices recommending Covid precautions at certain establishments, many had hand sanitizer available at the entrance, however, we didn’t encounter any strict requirements.

Thailand seems back to normal and getting more busy with the influx of Chinese tourists returning. Businesses are open without restrictions. A lot of people wear surgical masks outside in Thailand, but masking was common pre-pandemic as well.”

October 2022 – Babs of https://mumsonflipflops.com , Belgian tourist:  “ We’re travelling in Thailand with 2 small children for 2 months. Travel feels completely normal in Thailand. There are plenty of tourists and hotels are busy.

There are very few Covid rules still in place. You’ll see most Thai wearing face masks at all times, but nothing is expected or enforced. As a tourist, you don’t have to wear one. The one exception is on the Air Asia flight, you’re supposed to wear a mask there. Every store/building has a temperature scanner (hand scanning) and sanitizer that you’re expected to use. We haven’t been into contact testing etc as we’re fully vaccinated and all entry rules have been lifted for Thailand (we weren’t even asked for our vaccination proof).”

September 2022 – Steffi of BeachBumAdventure , expat in Thailand:  “ Tourism is slowly coming back to Thailand and the locals are really keen for tourists to return.

In Bangkok you will still find many Thais wearing masks, even outdoors, although this is no longer a government requirement. On public transport most people are still wearing masks on trains and minivans and buses. In other areas of the country and on the islands, you rarely see people wearing masks. 

Many hotels and restaurants are welcoming visitors although some ferry schedules are still reduced due to the low number of visitors. On quieter, less touristy islands some restaurants and shops still remain closed.

Healthcare in Thailand is very efficient if you attend a private hospital, therefore I recommend making sure your health insurance covers this. Many 711 shops offer ATK tests very cheaply (40+ baht) although PCR tests remain expensive (2000+ baht).”

July 2022 – Tania of Slower Travels , digital nomad from New Zealand: “My partner and I lived as digital nomads in Phuket, Thailand for four months in 2022. Now is a great time to visit Phuket. Everything is a little on the quiet side with reduced tourist numbers but the locals are so welcoming and happy to see you.

When we arrived, there was extensive requirements and testing involved. By the time we left, most of these had been dropped. However, most people are still wearing masks in crowded places, giving a feeling of safety.”

May 2022 Linnae – American traveler with family: “We really lucked out with our arrival to Bangkok scheduled for May 1st. We had originally planned to undergo the Test & Go program but they suddenly lifted the testing and quarantine requirements.

Applying for a Thailand Pass online, which is essentially the entry visa, was a straight forward process where you just have to complete the application, provide your vaccination details, and upload pictures of your shot records, passport, and insurance card. We have regular American-style insurance through Aetna, so it covered whatever the minimum requirement was. I think there was an option to purchase some sort of travel health insurance through a Thai company.

It took about 5 days to receive the Thailand pass, which was just a QR code attached to an email. Once we had the Thailand pass, we never had to show any other form of insurance or Covid vaccination when we went through immigration. The hotel check-in was completely normal- no extra documentation required other than our passports.

Our daughter did not have to test on arrival. As a minor, she was able to enter unvaccinated with vaccinated parents. There was an option to add her to our Thailand Pass in the system. She received her own QR code for immigration.

EVERYONE was still masked, inside and outside (even in the pool). I was surprised to see children younger than 2 wearing masks. Outliers would have been the odd westerner. Social distancing did not seem to be a requirement at all.

Restaurants/sites seemed open as usual. Closures due to Covid may not be clear on the business website. So if someone is set on a specific excursion or destination, contact the place ahead of time to make sure it is still open.”

March 9, 2022 – Kristel, U.S. traveler:  “My husband and I have been in Thailand since the start of 2022. In Bangkok, the typical hustle and bustle of the city feels similar to pre-covid days. Street food markets such as Chinatown is packed with both locals and foreigners while the temples are still fairly quiet depending on the time you visit. 

With regards to restrictions, masks are still worn both indoors and outdoors and temperature checks are imposed when going into indoor spaces. Healthcare is easily accessible and rapid tests can be bought at a local 7-11 for very cheap. While a lot of restaurants have shut down, there are still plenty of good options and street food areas are staying busy and doing well. If visiting the islands, you can expect beautiful beaches without the crowds.”

February 11, 2022 – Abigail of I’m going on an adventure , British tourist: “My partner and I are currently travelling through Thailand for one month. We are in Phuket at the moment. Food and transport options are good with everything open and actually the area seems to have been revamped since a few years ago; its cleaner and better organised!

All areas are open and ready to receive guests. Face masks are still required to be worn however in the more populated tourist areas such a Patong no one seems to be using them as much. There is no contact tracing or daily testing required (except official PCR test). It’s always important to carry a face mask as some restaurants and activities will ask to have them on but in general the island so far has been very relaxed! The country still isn’t as busy as pre-covid which actually makes it an even better time to visit as it’s less crowded but there is still a nice holiday vibe.”

January 28, 2022 – Katy, American digital nomad:  “ During our visit to Chiang Mai, we found that most businesses and restaurants in the Old Town area are open. Some are temporarily closed or have reduced hours, but enough were open that it wasn’t a problem. Bars are technically closed. Be aware that you can’t purchase alcohol at restaurants and stores after a certain time in the Chiang Mai province, I believe it’s 9pm now (but it keeps changing).

Travel restrictions are being followed closely by locals and visitors for the most part. Mask wearing and temperature checks are required at all businesses & shops and people do follow these rules. Contact tracing is also required (by scanning an app or signing a register), but we found that most people didn’t bother with this step.

The one exception is at the Chiang Mai Sunday market. Contact tracing (along with mask wearing and temperature scans) are firmly enforced there. Most of the Chiang Mai markets and walking streets are open, except for the Saturday Walking Street (which is closed) and the Night Bazaar (which is mostly closed and not worth visiting). There were some other foreigners in Chiang Mai but not many.

The city is used to having a larger number of tourists, so it didn’t feel too crowded and we didn’t have any issues with waiting in lines or securing tickets to popular attractions. Access to healthcare is easy and affordable in Chiang Mai (at least compared to what we’re used to in the United States). Booster shots are available to anyone (including foreigners) and you can get a PCR test for travel at the Chiang Mai Ram Hospital.”

January 2022 – Zoe Adventura , Australian:  “ I moved to Thailand with my family in January 2022. The biggest difference between here and Australia is that everyone is expected to wear a mask all the time. Even children, and even while exercising. Most tourists don’t. Most people seem relaxed about everything, but occasionally we hear that the hospitals are full – which is pretty scary.

Travel restrictions – there are quite a few hoops to jump through to get to Thailand . We came for the Phuket Sandbox – which meant we had to book a 7 day stay in a government approved sandbox hotel, have a specific insurance paid for, and also get RT-PCR tests before travel, plus 2 more in the first week. During this week we were free to travel around Phuket. For us, it was actually pretty seamless.

Before entering Thailand you need to get a Thaipass, which can be a bit tricky, but there is plenty of information online about what you need to do. There are facebook groups which can help with any questions, and you can apply multiple times if you need.

As far as things being closed, the tourist areas of Phuket are completely different. Patong has restrictions on nightlife and alcohol service is restricted. A lot of shops are closed and boarded up in Patong, which is sad to see. On the other side of the island which typically has less tourism, it’s much less noticeable. That being said, the hotel we are currently staying in is clearly operating on skeleton staff, with half of the rooms empty. I’ve only seen 3-5 other guests, and it is a little creepy. The staff are obviously doing the best they can but the common areas are neglected. Same story in the last hotel we stayed in. All activities are cancelled, kids club is closed etc.”

December 2, 2021 – Katy, American digital nomad, A Rambling Unicorn :  “My husband and I flew from Istanbul to Phuket on Nov. 27 and then will fly to Chiang Mai on Dec. 4 when our stay in the Sandbox is complete. We have Tourist Visas and will be in Thailand for 60 days.

I arrived at the Phuket Airport in November 2021 and was amazed at the thorough measures put into place for international arrivals. All passengers were initially seated in an arrivals hall in chairs that were spaced apart for social distancing. After a check of our documents by workers covered in full PPE, we were led through 5 different stations that verified our documents and administered a PCR test on-the-spot. We were glad we had printed all of our documents out in advance – including our Thai Pass, PCR Test results and SHA+ Hotel booking. Passengers without printed copies had to print them out at a special printing station.

Thai locals take COVID very seriously. Everyone wears masks in public, even when riding open-air motor scooters. Contact tracing is managed via the MorChana app which everyone is encouraged to download. We are staying in a remote part of Phuket where some restaurants are still closed and our hotel is only half full. We haven’t encountered any lines at restaurants or crowds in this part of the island, quite the opposite actually.

Thailand is really particular about the COVID insurance. When we first applied for the COE (this was the precursor to the Thai Pass), we tried to use our World Nomads insurance and it was rejected. I’ve heard anecdotally that they only accept COVID insurance from Thai companies. I don’t know if that is true and/or if things are relaxed now that they’ve moved to the Thai Pass. When we re-applied, we bought insurance through a Thai company that specialized in Thai Pass and Tourist Visa insurance. It came with document that clearly stated COVID was covered with a coverage of 50,000 USD.”

Thailand Reopening: Phuket Sandbox Updates video published October 29 2021 See what it’s like in Phuket, with commentary from local Thai people in the tourism industry as well as recent travelers to Phuket:

Planning a trip to Thailand?

Check out our other Thailand travel resources: – Things We Would (and Wouldn’t) Do Again in Chiang Mai, Thailand – Bangkok Tourist Pass Review and Suggested Itineraries – Review: Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary + Hill Tribe Homestay – Tips for Travel in Bangkok

If you have questions or updates about travel to Thailand during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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IRCTC launches tour packages to Thailand that begins from Kochi

Thailand is one of the most beautiful Southeast Asian countries that lures tourists from all over the globe. Tour companies and travel agencies vie to organize trips to Thailand as it is known as a paradise for tourism. Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, immense natural beauty, mouthwatering cuisine and extremely friendly people are considered some of the most important factors that make Thailand unique. So, Thailand is often touted as a scintillating destination that never fails to impress you.  Those who wish to stay away from the trips organized by private tour companies can explore the interesting Thailand tour packages launched by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). Major tourist destinations like Bangkok and Pattaya too are included in IRCTC’s Thailand tour package. Meanwhile, the five-day long trip begins on August 23 from Kochi. Tourists could enjoy the famous Buddhist temples in Thailand, rare wildlife parks, tranquil scenery and the vibrant Bangkok city as part of the tour package. 

Sriracha Tiger Zoo, the world-famous Alcazar Cabaret in Pattaya, a thrilling speed boat ride to the Coral Island, the beautiful floating market of Pattaya, Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, Safar World and Marine Park too are on the list of places that are visited as part of the package. IRCTC’s tour package to Thailand is available from Rs 57650 onwards including air tickets from Kochi and back, air-conditioned vehicles, comfortable accommodation, delicious meals in Indian restaurants, entry tickets at all the tourist centres, service of a local guide who speaks English, visa processing fees as well as travel insurance. There are limited seats up for grabs. For more information and booking contact 8287932082.

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More From Forbes

The 20 best places for solo travel, ranked in a new report.

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A new report has listed the top places to travel solo. Pictured here: A traveler on the ... [+] Oberbaumbrucke bridge in Berlin, which was named the top spot for solo travelers.

Solo travel is having a moment. According to a recent report by Kayak and OpenTable that ranks the world’s best places for solo travel, 50% of Americans plan to take a solo trip within the next year.

What’s the appeal? The freedom to explore at your own pace, dive deep into a local culture and enjoy a meal without making small talk are just a few examples of what’s drawing adventurers to hit the road solo. Another reason: Without the distraction of a companion, solo travel allows for a deeper connection with the destinations you visit.

So where to go on your next solo trip? Kayak and OpenTable analyzed a number of cities in the U.S. and around the world based on the largest share of solo travel searches made on Kayak and the share of solo dining at OpenTable restaurants. They then crunched the numbers by tapping into data like safety (including a safety index from Numbeo and FBI crime reports), affordability (including prices of hotels, flights and meals on Kayak and OpenTable), hotel satisfaction scores and cultural richness (using OpenStreetMap to see the number of tagged museums, theaters and concert halls in a city). Lastly, an online consumer survey was conducted to determine how welcoming the cities are to solo travelers.

The result—a ranking of the 10 best destinations for solo travel worldwide and the 10 best places for solo trips in the U.S.

The World’s Best Cities for Solo Travel

Coming in at the top of the worldwide list is Berlin—and it’s easy to see why this German city has been named the world’s best city for solo travel. Whether you’re exploring the remnants of the Berlin Wall or dancing the night away in a techno club, Berlin offers solo travelers a chance to dive into a city that is as dynamic as it is welcoming. With an average meal cost of $31 and hotel prices at $168 per night, it’s a budget-friendly choice, too.

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Viewing the Vancouver skyline at sunset from the Island Park Walk.

Coming in second on the list is Vancouver, a Canadian city that blends urban sophistication and natural beauty. Known for its safety and stunning landscapes, Vancouver is ideal for those who enjoy both city life and the great outdoors.

Montreal—another Canadian city—takes third place. A city of festivals, food and history, Montreal provides an exciting cultural experience with a European flair. Plus, it’s got a high safety rating and moderate costs, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers.

Crossing a bridge over the Lachine Canal in Montreal, one of the world's best places for traveling ... [+] solo.

Other cities on the list include Paris (which might be famous as the city of love but is also a dream for solo travelers), followed by Milan, Dublin, Toronto, Dubai, Mexico City and London.

The Best U.S. Cities for Solo Travel

For those who prefer to stay stateside, Kayak and OpenTable also ranked the top U.S. cities for solo travel. Topping the list domestically is Washington, D.C. The nation’s capital is perfect for history buffs and art lovers alike, with plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace. The city’s high average hotel rating and its numerous free attractions also help make it a top choice for solo travelers.

Walking alone on Beacon Hill in Boston.

Boston follows closely behind. Rich in history and brimming with character, the capital of Massachusetts offers solo travelers a chance to follow in the footsteps of America’s founders, enjoy world-class museums and dine in some of the best seafood restaurants in the country. The city’s compact size and walkability make it an easy and enjoyable place to explore on your own.

Chicago—a place known for its architecture, arts scene and deep-dish pizza—lands in third place. The Windy City offers a mix of cultural experiences, from the Art Institute to jazz clubs, making it a fantastic destination for those traveling alone. The city’s affordability and variety of attractions ensure you’ll never run out of things to do.

Beyond the top three, other U.S. cities that shine as solo travel destinations include Atlanta (which offers a blend of Southern hospitality and a rich culture); Salt Lake City (perfect for outdoor enthusiasts); Tampa, Florida; Philadelphia; Seattle; Los Angeles and New York City.

Crossing a city street in Berlin, which was named the best place to travel solo.

Ranked: The World’s Top 10 Solo Travel Destinations

• Berlin, Germany
• Vancouver, Canada
• Montreal, Canada
• Paris, France
• Milan, Italy
• Dublin, Ireland
• Toronto, Canada
• Mexico City, Mexico
• London, U.K.

Exploring solo in Washington D.C. along the Tidal Basin.

Ranked: The Top 10 Solo Travel Destinations in the U.S.

• Washington, D.C.
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Chicago, Illinois
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Salt Lake City, Utah
• Tampa, Florida
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Seattle, Washington
• Los Angeles, California
• New York City

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You Can Travel in These 7 Countries for Less Than $30 a Day — Here’s How

And that includes food, hotels, and fun.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Michael Herm/Getty Images

In case you haven’t noticed, everything from groceries to rent is getting more expensive. Since 2021, the inflation rate has remained at or more than three percent, with the high being a seven percent increase in 2021. It’s no wonder people are choosing to move abroad .

When life feels expensive, it’s good to remember there are places where you can get a room for the cost of a movie ticket and a full meal for the price of a cup of coffee. In fact, once you get past the airfare, you can actually save money by traveling to certain countries for extended periods of time.

Here’s a rundown of how to get by in some of the world’s most affordable countries for less than $30 a day, including lodging, food, and activities.

Wilfried Strang/Getty Images

While Vietnam and Thailand get plenty of attention, Laos is often overlooked. Perhaps it’s because the nation is landlocked in an area known for its beautiful coastlines, but those who visit will be rewarded with mountains, Buddhist monasteries, beautiful rivers, and a low cost of living.

When I visited Luang Prabang , I was able to stay in a place like Phai Guesthouse for $13 a night. The city is full of French colonial architecture and bakeries with delicious treats for less than $4. If you really want to save, buy your meals from roadside vendors who sell foods like noodle soup and sticky rice for around $1.

FEBRUARY/Getty Images

I visited Nepal when I was traveling through northern India. Kathmandu, its capital, tends to have some of the most affordable lodging (like Thamel Eco Resort , with rooms for $20 a night, for two people), but if you want to see the Himalayas, you’ll want to hop on a bus to Pokhara, a city west of the capital. The journey costs $11 per person via an air-conditioned bus.

One of the most memorable things I ate in Nepal were momos (dumplings), which cost less than $1 for a plate of around seven.

When I visited Indonesia, I stayed on Bali , which is still relatively affordable, but more expensive than many of the country's other islands. Sumatra and Java have some wonderfully low prices, while on Lombok, an island to the east of Bali, you can stay in a three-star hotel like the Hotel Puri Saron Senggigi for around $22 a night.

If you don’t mind simple meals of rice, meat, and eggs, you can grab local dishes like nasi goreng for around $2.

phutthiseth thongtae/Getty Images

Thailand is no longer the affordable darling it once was, but you can still find budget-friendly accommodations and affordable, delicious eats all over the country. For some of the best rates, head north to the cool mountains, rather than south to the islands. For example, in the northern city of Chiang Mai, you can book a private room in a guesthouse for under $20 a night . A nice meal in a restaurant typically costs around $8, while street food is around $2 a meal.

Vithun Khamsong/Getty Images

Vietnam continually ranks high among travelers looking for a deal. But beyond being affordable, the country is beautiful, with more than 2,000 miles of coastline. In the city of Hạ Long, which sits on Hạ Long Bay, visitors have easy access to snorkeling and climbing on the jutting limestone islands.

There are hundreds of hotels, hostels, and homestays in Hạ Long for around $15 a night. After a day of exploring in and along the bay, you can find a banh mi sandwich for around $1 or a bowl of pho for $3.

Philippines

Jacob Marsh/Getty Images

It’s a haul to get to the Philippines, but once you’re there, you’ll enjoy a relatively low cost of living. Even islands like Siargao, known for its surf culture, have rooms for $30 or less .

After a day of riding the waves, you can find a plate loaded with local fare (like chicken adobo) for a few bucks. If you’re craving a Western comfort dish, expect to pay around $10 (a bowl of homemade pasta from La Carinderia , for example).

Anton Aleksenko/Getty Images

I spent more than a month in India and enjoyed the perks of affordable lodging and tasty, cheap eats. A private room in a central hotel in New Delhi will cost you around $15 a night (like in the case of one of my all-time favorite properties, Hotel Hari Piorko ). A meal on the street is around $3, as is a train trip on a lower-tier car.

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Where Kamala Harris Stands on the Issues: Abortion, Immigration and More

She wants to protect the right to abortion nationally. Here’s what else to know about her positions.

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By Maggie Astor

• Published July 21, 2024 Updated Aug. 24, 2024

With Vice President Kamala Harris having replaced President Biden on the Democratic ticket, her stances on key issues will be scrutinized by both parties and the nation’s voters.

She has a long record in politics: as district attorney of San Francisco, as attorney general of California, as a senator, as a presidential candidate and as vice president.

Here is an overview of where she stands.

Ms. Harris supports legislation that would protect the right to abortion nationally, as Roe v. Wade did before it was overturned in 2022, in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

After the Dobbs ruling, she became central to the Biden campaign’s efforts to keep the spotlight on abortion, given that Mr. Biden — with his personal discomfort with abortion and his support for restrictions earlier in his career — was a flawed messenger. In March, she made what was believed to be the first official visit to an abortion clinic by a president or vice president.

She consistently supported abortion rights during her time in the Senate, including cosponsoring legislation that would have banned common state-level restrictions, like requiring doctors to perform specific tests or have hospital admitting privileges in order to provide abortions.

As a presidential candidate in 2019, she argued that states with a history of restricting abortion rights in violation of Roe should be subject to what is known as pre-clearance for new abortion laws — those laws would have to be federally approved before they could take effect. That proposal is not viable now that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe.

Climate change

Ms. Harris has supported the Biden administration’s climate efforts , including legislation that provided hundreds of billions of dollars in tax credits and rebates for renewable energy and electric vehicles.

“It is clear the clock is not just ticking, it is banging,” she said in a speech last year , referring to increasingly severe and frequent disasters spurred by climate change. “And that is why, one year ago, President Biden and I made the largest climate investment in America’s history.”

During her 2020 presidential campaign, she emphasized the need for environmental justice , a framework that calls for policies to address the adverse effects that climate change has on poor communities and people of color. She has emphasized that as vice president as well.

In 2019, Ms. Harris, then a senator, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, introduced legislation that would have evaluated environmental rules and laws by how they affected low-income communities. It would have also established an independent Office of Climate and Environmental Justice Accountability and created a “senior adviser on climate justice” within several federal agencies. In 2020, Ms. Harris introduced a more sweeping version of the bill. None of the legislation was passed.

Ms. Harris was tasked with leading the Biden administration’s efforts to secure voting rights legislation, a job she asked for . The legislation — which went through several iterations but was ultimately blocked in the Senate — would have countered voting restrictions in Republican-led states, limited gerrymandering and regulated campaign finance more strictly.

This year, she met with voting rights advocates and described a strategy that included creating a task force on threats to election workers and challenging state voting restrictions in court.

She has condemned former President Donald J. Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. In a speech in 2022 marking the anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, she said that day had showed “what our nation would look like if the forces who seek to dismantle our democracy are successful.” She added, “What was at stake then, and now, is the right to have our future decided the way the Constitution prescribes it: by we the people, all the people.”

Economic policy

In campaign events this year, Ms. Harris has promoted the Biden administration’s economic policies, including the infrastructure bill that Mr. Biden signed, funding for small businesses, a provision in the Inflation Reduction Act that capped the cost of insulin for people on Medicare and student debt forgiveness.

She indicated at an event in May that the administration’s policies to combat climate change would also bring economic benefits by creating jobs in the renewable energy industry. At another event , she promoted more than $100 million in Energy Department grants for auto parts manufacturers to pivot to electric vehicles, which she said would “help to keep our auto supply chains here in America.”

As a senator, she introduced legislation that would have provided a tax credit of up to $6,000 for middle- and low-income families, a proposal she emphasized during her presidential campaign as a way to address income inequality.

Immigration

One of Ms. Harris’s mandates as vice president has been to address the root causes of migration from Latin America, like poverty and violence in migrants’ home countries. Last year, she announced $950 million in pledges from private companies to support Central American communities. Similar commitments made previously totaled about $3 billion.

In 2021, she visited the U.S.-Mexico border and said : “This issue cannot be reduced to a political issue. We’re talking about children, we’re talking about families, we are talking about suffering.”

More recently, she backed a bipartisan border security deal that Mr. Biden endorsed but Mr. Trump, by urging Republican lawmakers to kill it , effectively torpedoed. The legislation would have closed the border if crossings reached a set threshold, and it would have funded thousands of new border security agents and asylum officers. “We are very clear, and I think most Americans are clear, that we have a broken immigration system and we need to fix it,” Ms. Harris said in March .

Israel and Gaza

Ms. Harris called in March for an “immediate cease-fire” in Gaza and described the situation there as a “humanitarian catastrophe.” She said that “the threat Hamas poses to the people of Israel must be eliminated” but also that “too many innocent Palestinians have been killed.”

In an interview later that month , she emphasized her opposition to an Israeli invasion of Rafah, the city in southern Gaza to which more than a million people had fled. “I have studied the maps,” she said. “There’s nowhere for those folks to go, and we’re looking at about 1.5 million people in Rafah who are there because they were told to go there, most of them.”

She has said on multiple occasions that she supports a two-state solution.

Racial justice

Racial justice was a theme of Ms. Harris’s presidential campaign. In a memorable debate exchange in 2019 , she denounced Mr. Biden’s past work with segregationist senators and opposition to school busing mandates.

She has called for ending mandatory minimum sentences, cash bail and the death penalty, which disproportionately affect people of color.

Amid the protests that followed the police killing of George Floyd in 2020, she was one of the senators who introduced the Justice in Policing Act, which would have made it easier to prosecute police officers, created a national registry of police misconduct and required officers to complete training on racial profiling. It was not passed.

Her record as a prosecutor also came into play during her presidential campaign. Critics noted that as attorney general of California, she had generally avoided stepping in to investigate police killings.

Maggie Astor covers politics for The New York Times, focusing on breaking news, policies, campaigns and how underrepresented or marginalized groups are affected by political systems. More about Maggie Astor