Thailand, a premier destination for luxury holidays, continues to be an attractive option for travelers through 2023. With its stunning landscapes and rich culture, the question arises: Can U.S. citizens currently travel to Thailand? The answer is yes, with some requirements and advisories in place.
U.S. citizens are permitted to enter Thailand and can do so without a visa for up to 30 days, provided they are on the Visa Exemption List. This 30-day period, often known as “Visa on Arrival,” is granted when landing at one of Thailand’s international airports.
For those planning a trip, here are the essential steps and details for entering Thailand:
Book Flights: Ensure you have your flight booked.
Proof of Vaccination or Recovery: From January 9 to January 31, 2023, travelers aged 18 and above must show proof of vaccination, a recovery certificate from COVID-19 within the last 6 months, or a vaccine-exemption letter from a doctor.
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): It is advised to enroll in STEP for health updates and emergency alerts.
For extended stays beyond the 30-day limit, there is a 1900 Baht fee for a visa extension. For this process, contact the Thai Immigration Bureau in Bangkok.
Travel advisories and the latest COVID-19 information can be obtained from various resources:
The Thailand Travel Advisory page from travel.state.gov.
The ThaiEmbassy.com provides updates for U.S. citizens traveling to Thailand.
The CDC’s recommendations on the CDC Travel Recommendations by Country.
Before planning your trip, it’s essential to stay updated on the evolving travel guidelines and to make arrangements that do not rely on U.S. government assistance for evacuation. Safe and well-prepared travel is paramount to enjoy the beauty and hospitality that Thailand has to offer.
