Several tour operators based in Russia report new COVID-19 entry rules issued by Thai authorities. As of January 9, Thailand tightened certain health requirements for travelers, with the government yet to publish a final decision on long‑term policy. This development has been noted by DEA News in relation to the tour operator Intourist, highlighting an ongoing shift in the country’s approach to border health measures.
Thai officials, speaking through the cabinet and the Ministry of Health, indicated that the changes were a rapid response to evolving public health conditions. The move reflects a broader pattern seen worldwide where travel and tourism regulations are adjusted in response to the epidemiological situation, vaccine uptake, and the capacity of the health system to manage cases without disrupting essential services.
The new rules are scheduled to be in effect from 01:00 on January 9 until 16:59 on January 31. They apply to most international travelers and are designed to streamline entry procedures while ensuring that guests meet minimum health standards.
Under the updated requirements, all travelers aged 18 and older are asked to present a vaccination certificate showing that they have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, with the second dose administered at least 14 days before arrival. The certificate itself does not expire, according to the guidance issued by Thai authorities, although regulations can be subject to change based on the disease situation and policy reviews.
Alternative pathways for entry are noted as well. A traveler may enter with a certificate confirming recovery from a coronavirus infection, or with a medical exemption from vaccination for health reasons, provided the exemption was issued within 180 days prior to departure. This flexibility aims to accommodate travelers who have had the illness in the recent past or who have legitimate medical reasons preventing vaccination.
Vaccination documentation accepted for entry includes vaccines produced in Russia, specifically Sputnik V and Sputnik Light. The inclusion of these vaccines underscores Thailand’s consideration of a broader range of internationally recognized immunization options, potentially easing entry for travelers who received these vaccines abroad.
Earlier reporting from Bangkok Post indicated plans to simplify or clarify proof of vaccination for tourists as part of reopening strategies. The newspaper’s coverage suggests that Thai authorities were actively exploring ways to provide reliable vaccination verification for visitors, balancing public health safeguards with the needs of the tourism sector. The exact instruments used to verify vaccination status, as well as any online platforms or paper-based systems, may be refined as the situation evolves. [Source: DEA News]
For travelers planning a trip to Thailand, these updates mean revisiting the entry requirements well before departure. Agencies and operators are advised to confirm the latest rules with Thai consulates or official government channels, since timelines and documentation criteria can change with little notice. It is prudent for travelers to carry both a digital and a printed copy of their vaccination certificate, ensure that the certificate clearly shows the dates and type of vaccine, and verify that the second dose falls within the required timeframe. In addition, travelers should keep ready proof of recovery or medical exemptions if applicable, and confirm that their vaccine type is accepted under current guidance. [Source: DEA News]