The year 2020 has been a hectic year and all thanks to coronavirus and the lockdown that followed in most of the countries. Some major industries including the tourism industry were badly hit to due to the virus as all the countries had to restrict the entry into their borders keeping in mind the safety precautions. But now as the lockdown conditions have eased, it seems that there's good news for the travellers.
India's favourite tourist place, Thailand has now eased their restrictions and thanks to their visa policies that one can now go and travel the beautiful place. Thailand is considered as one of the most popular countries for travelling as in 2019, Bangkok was the most visited city as 38 million tourists visited the country.
Reportedly, Thailand had already reopened its borders to travellers with work permits, residents, or those with family there. Well, the country has now introduced Special tourist visa (STV) to attract tourists.
Under this visa, travellers can stay up to 90 days if they are coming from low-risk countries including China, Vietnam, Australia. This visa can also be extended twice, and you can stay up to 9 months.
Whereas travellers from other countries can visit the country and stay for up to 60 days. the travellers will have to quarantine themselves for another 14 days at an alternative state quarantine hotel on arrival. At the time of entering the country, one will have to undergo PCR test, the quarantine on arrival and apply for a tourist visa.
Not only that, but people will have to submit a negative COVID-19 test result from within 72 hours of arrival and travellers will have to undergo a second test once they land, as per the report of a leading portal. And in any case, if travellers test positive for COVID-19, then they will have to quarantine themselves for another 14 days in a state hospital.
If you want to apply for the Special Tourist Visa, it will cost you about THB 2,000 (Rs 4,896). However, to qualify for a visit, you would need to provide proof of substantial funds. A proof of medical and travel insurance with a minimum 100,000 USD (Rs 73,56,140) coverage for Covid-19 medical treatment and a minimum coverage of 400,000 THB (Rs 9,79,430) for other medical and accident expenses.
Additionally, one would also need to provide need to submit proof of their long-term residence in Thailand, such as hotel reservations, rental contract or condominium ownership documents.
Also, short trips are not possible, as you will have to stay at a state quarantine hotel for 14 days upon arrival.
Well, it's great news for all the travellers out there, so, pack your bags and have a fun vacation!
