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Answered5 years ago

Do I need a PCR test before flying to Thailand if I'm already testing upon arrival?

Bruce *********
asked Mar 30, 2022
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I applied for My Thai test and go pass at 10:00 p.m. last night and it was approved by 11:00 a.m. this morning.

It is saying that I have to take a PCR test within 72 hours of my flight but from what I've been seeing on here it's PCR test on arrival. Can anyone clarify this because I would sure hate to pay a hundred bucks for a PCR test here in Cambodia and then find out it's not necessary.

Flight leaves on April 6th but now I'm thinking about leaving 4 days earlier so I can fly back in to Thailand. So possibly April 2nd or 3rd. My reasoning behind this is I'm averaging about 30 to 40 dollars a day eating out plus the cost of my hotel(30 a night). I would rather save that $250 and be back in Thailand.
Answer summary
The initial requirement for a PCR test within 72 hours of departure is now clarified; it is no longer needed before flying from Cambodia to Thailand. Instead, travelers can take the required PCR test upon arrival in Thailand. This new policy may affect those planning to arrive after April 1st, as rules were changing as of that date. Travelers are advised to carry proof of accommodation and have a refundable hotel booking to avoid complications at immigration.
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Richard *******
Richard *******
Hi Bruce I just called Thai Smile Airways and they said the new policy is that you have to test in Thailand only - no need to test in Cambodia before leaving.
Richard *******
Richard *******
@Bruce ********
good 👍
Bruce *********
Bruce *********
OP
@Richard ******
no. It's upon arrival.
Richard *******
Richard *******
Or only upon arrival in BKK?
Richard *******
Richard *******
@Bruce ********
was an RT-PCR test required before boarding your flight from Cambodia to Thailand?
Bruce *********
Bruce *********
OP
@Richard ******
I landed in Thailand about an 2 hours ago. I already took my test and had to download a nap to get my results later on today. Then I have to submit results for the APK test on day 5.
Allie **********
Allie **********
Hey Bruce, just want to let you know that my boyfriend and I flew into Bangkok today from Cambodia. We had the three proofs prepared. The counters only actually have a notice asking people to show their Thai pass documents and show proof of accommodation after your 1 night SHA hotel stay.

They didnt ask me for my flight out and actually didnt even check my accommodation after SHA or ask me to have proof of cash. They did ask my boyfriend for the accommodation after SHA. So make sure to have some hotel booking for the days you will stay. Can cancel of course.

Both went through just fine and got the 30 days exempt! We had been on Covid visas since March 15th, went onto a none B when we started work at a kindergarten, and then went back onto Covid Extension after that ended.

Lots of people were coming through and didnt seem to be many issues!
Bruce *********
Bruce *********
OP
One more thing. They didn't ask you for a PCR test result because those are no no longer required correct?

Also what were the three proofs that you showed upon arrival?

I just want to make sure I have everything.
Bruce *********
Bruce *********
OP
@Allie *********
thank you.
Allie **********
Allie **********
@Bruce ********
yeah it had my head spinning for the 9 days we were stuck in Phnom Penh. It sounded so dodgy from what everyone was saying. What a tough time being stuck in Phonm Penh to be honest 😓 we were so busy working online as well. Everything seemed very smooth for a sizable crowd of people coming through today.

But yes do book a refundable hotel, that is best I think. Otherwise maybe they think you will just go camp up in girlfriend's house or something. Can just save any questions I think.
Bruce *********
Bruce *********
OP
@Allie *********
my accommodations would be the apartment that I'm currently renting. Not sure if I should just booked a hotel reservation somewhere and then cancel upon arrival.

This is good news to hear that some people are making it through because from what it sounded like on here it seemed like everyone was being denied.
Brandon ************
Brandon ************
The new rule is set to take effect April 1st but the law has not been published yet, so nothing is official until then.
Wayne *********
Wayne *********
You need to apply for new thai pass if you want to come earlier
Wayne *********
Wayne *********
Bruce *********
Bruce *********
OP
@Wayne ********
I was afraid of that and I would also need to change my insurance because I have it set for April 6th. Damn
Johnny *******
Johnny *******
Entry rules and requirements are scheduled to change again in April so it depends when you are flying in.
Wayne *********
Wayne *********
It's not official yet also not the 1st of April so they can not do the website updates Yet

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