Wereldreizigers.nl (World Travelers dot NL)NEWS RELEASE – 17 December 2020: While the Dutch government is doing everything it can today to reduce the number of flights by cancel holiday flights, the government of Thailand announced the (re)opening of its borders to tourists from all over the world. The Thai borders will be reopened immediately to international travelers subject to a strict protocol.
Also read: Thailand | 10 Must Sees to discover during your tour
Thailand reopens borders with strict visa policy
There will be a very strict visa policy to ensure the security measures. Thailand now allows visitors to apply for a Tourist Visa (TRV) or a Special Tourist Visa (STV) – both come with a mandatory 14-day quarantine at a government-approved facility.
Under the new protocols, travelers wishing to enter Thailand must also hold one of the above visas and a Certificate of Entrance (COE), which is a certificate of entry.
Tourists can opt for the visas according to the nature of their stay. The TRV is for tourists visiting Thailand for a short stay, while the STV is for long trips.
COE certificate required
A COE certificate, an health insurance that covers Covid-19 and a quarantine of 14 days are required for both the Tourist Visa (TRV) and the Special Tourist Visa (STV). One must then apply for the COE certification after receiving the visa. It's quite a few requirements, but it's better than nothing, according to the director of tourism in Thailand.
Also read: International travel can be safely rebooked, says WTTC
Cholada Siddhivarn, Thailand's tourism authority director, said: “We are now planning our efforts to slowly rebuild tourism.
“The new visa rule and procedures will act as a catalyst to ensure the utmost security is maintained as we open the country to international tourists.”
Not traveling to Thailand for the time being
Despite Thailand reopening its borders, Dutch travelers who want to travel to Thailand will have to be patient for a while. The current travel restrictions and the urgent advice not to travel internationally until March 15, 2021 is difficult for Thai Dutch and travelers who would like to visit the country for various reasons.
Also read: Flight time Bangkok | How long is the flight to Bangkok?
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