British citizens are starting to travel across the world in bigger numbers again as pandemic restrictions ease up. Of course, many regulations and guidelines have changed in the aftermath of a world-changing event.
For those that are looking for information on passport services and other rules of entry regarding Thailand, read on.
Requirements for Entry
For you to be able to even enter the country, you will need to meet a number of requirements:
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Thailand. It should also be largely undamaged and have complete pages. Dual citizens will need to use the same passport for entry and exit.
Proof of Funds and Onward Travel
You will need to show proof that you are ending your trip with another flight, either back to your home country or a different destination. You may also need to show proof of your finances to show that you can afford your travel and stay.
Work Permit
This requirement is mostly for those planning to do some business in Thailand. You need to show either a work permit or a business visa to avoid legal issues. Other travellers can get away with their regular visas and proof of employment.
Visa
UK citizens can actually enter Thailand for 30 days without a Visa. You can also request an extension on this Visa exemption before the first period ends. Otherwise, you will need to apply for Visa to avoid overstay issues. It is also required if you plan to work or migrate.
Proper Health Certificates
You will have to provide proof that you are negative from COVID-19, though general quarantine protocols should apply anyway. You may also need to show a yellow fever certificate from the National Travel Health Network.
UK Emergency Travel Documents
You may also enter the country using a UK ETD, though the Thai Embassy determines whether this waives the need for a Visa or not. Two-way ETD trips will only be permitted for non-immigrants.
What to Do When You Arrive
Once you land in Thailand, there are a few things to get done before leaving the airport, depending on your COVID-19 status:
For Fully Vaccinated Individuals
If you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (meaning you have completed all doses with your last shot received two weeks before travel), you can enter the country under the Phuket Sandbox and Alternative Quarantine. The quarantine period has been shortened to just one to seven days, depending on your status.
You can also get a Thailand Pass QR Code to gain entry beyond the Sandbox and Alternative Quarantine methods. You will get a free RT-PCR test, and from there, your travel will be determined. Return trips to the UK will also no longer require extended quarantine.
For Unvaccinated Individuals
If you do not have any COVID-19 vaccination shots, your doses are not yet complete, or your last shot was administered less than 14 days prior to your arrival, then you will be in this category. You will have to comply with mandatory quarantine before being able to travel anywhere.
After your quarantine and negative RT-PCR results (free from the government), you may be asked to get the national COVID-19 tracking app before being able to explore Thailand.
Conclusion
Of course, all the specifics will be dependent on whether you intend to travel temporarily or for the purpose of immigration. Make sure you do your research so that you don’t end up with major problems while you are travelling. It’s also best to conduct your travel plans with legitimate channels and travel services so you can be more assured of your entry compliance.
For more help and advice on Visas, legalisation, and any travel application from the UK, reach out to Travcour VLS. Contact us, and a specialist will help you get sorted.