COVID-19: Phuket Sandbox Scheme implemented

The Thai government introduced the Phuket Sandbox Scheme on July 1 to allow Thai nationals and foreigners the ability to enter Phuket from low- and medium-risk countries.

Pre-arrival requirements:

• Travelers must reside in a country on the low- or medium-risk countries list for at least 21 days before traveling to Phuket.
• Travelers must have received the last dose of a COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days before travel.
• Travelers must have a vaccine certificate, valid visa, certificate of entry, COVID-19 health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of $100,000 per traveler, a negative PCR test conducted within 72 hours of departure, a 14-day hotel booking and a receipt of advanced payment for COVID-19 testing in Phuket.

Post-arrival requirements:

• Travelers on direct flights to Phuket are subject to health screening and Immigration and Customs procedures at the point of entry. Travelers on transit flights to Phuket are subject to two health screenings and Immigration and Customs procedures.
• Travelers must install the ThailandPlus application and MorChana tracing application for contact tracing purposes.
• Travelers must undergo pre-paid PCR tests as determined by Thai health authorities depending on the length of stay in Thailand.
  • If the test results are negative, individuals can go anywhere in Phuket but must return to their pre-booked hotel every night.
• All travelers must stay in Phuket for 14 days before they can travel to other parts of Thailand.

BAL Analysis: The Phuket Sandbox Scheme is subject to change as the epidemiological situation evolves. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and BAL will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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