COVID-19 Travel Restrictions Update for Phuket Thailand

PHUKET REALTOR would like to update clients on the current situation in Phuket Thailand in regard to coronavirus COVID-19 travel restrictions. As this virus continues to be a concern Worldwide, we know many of you are carefully thinking about your future travel bookings.

The Thai government has taken the following temporary steps:

Border Closures in Southern Thailand

Several provincial governments in southern Thailand announced the closure of their borders prohibiting entry by land and sea effective March 30, 2020, until further notice. These provinces include Phuket, Phang Nga, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Yala. Please visit the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s website for updated information. Additional information about COVID-19 travel restrictions across Thailand can be found on the Ministry of Public Health’s Department of Disease Control COVID-19 website.

Transit Airline Passengers Now Barred From Entering Thailand

Effective April 1, the Royal Thai Government (RTG) expanded the ban on foreign nationals entering Thailand to include transiting passengers at international airports. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand confirmed the previous exemption for most transit passengers expired on March 31 and would not be extended.  Very limited transit exemptions remain in place for foreign cargo carriers, crew, and pilots, provided they promptly depart Thailand after fulfilling their duties.

Phuket International Airport Closure Confirmed: The Provincial Government of Phuket confirmed the closure of the Phuket International Airport from April 10-30, 2020. Travelers should expect flights in or out of Phuket to cease beginning at 12:01 a.m. April 10. Any U.S. citizens remaining in Phuket who wish to return to depart Thailand should book their departure flights now, while departure flights are still available, or prepare to stay in Phuket Thailand indefinitely.

Possible Automatic Extension of Thai Tourist Visas: To reduce crowding at immigration service centers, the Thai government is considering a temporary, automatic extension of visas for travelers who have been affected by COVID-19 travel restrictions and obstacles. A Cabinet decision on the issue is expected in the next day or so.

Increasing Provincial Border Closures: Several provinces have begun restricting entry into or travel through their provinces.  These restrictions may be implemented with little or no advance notice and can include a thorough inspection of travelers, mandatory quarantines, or the outright prohibition on entry for non-residents.  These restrictions will make domestic travel between provinces increasingly difficult.

During this time, PHUKET REALTOR has postponed all appointments and property viewings until after April 30, 2020, for the safety of everyone.

Despite the difficult situation, many investors are looking for new solutions. PHUKET REALTOR can be reached by phone or WhatsApp at +66 93 606 0906 or by email [email protected].