Answered7 years ago
What are the current options for expats in Thailand looking to extend their stay during COVID-19?
After reading Daryl Mander's post, which explores courses of action I was hoping might work for me but which seem to be leading to dead ends, I've decided my plan is to get the covid-19 test at a hospital here (priced around 6500b) and apply for health insurance, which is going to be pricey, too. Then, hope a country is open to fly or cross into and get a 30 tourist on arrival visa before hoping to get a longer term visa. Expensive way but should buy some time and seems most workable.
Answer summary
Many expats in Thailand are exploring options to extend their stay amid COVID-19 concerns. Some suggested undergoing a COVID-19 test and obtaining health insurance, despite the associated costs. Alternatives included seeking approval from embassies or submitting medical certifications. Comments emphasized the uncertainty surrounding travel regulations and encouraged caution in following the latest immigration news.
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Tod *********
and Good luck with that plan, it seems workable but there's NO one on this site who is gonna tell you IF it will work or not..
In theory it can, BUT in practicality will it? Who can say,
Sincerely good luck with it (y)
In theory it can, BUT in practicality will it? Who can say,
Sincerely good luck with it (y)
Matt *******
Try safety wings or world nomad insurance
Benjamin ******
When does your current entry stamp expire, and have you extended that entry stamp yet at the immigration office for 1,900THB?
George *********
OPYep done all that. April 2 is end date
Benjamin ******
>Expensive way but should buy some time and seems most workable.
It seems workable.. *TODAY*. We do not know what will happen tomorrow. I don't feel comfortable giving advice for things that may happen a week from now.
If there are flight to return to your home country, I suggest returning home and applying for a long term visa at the nearest consulate where you reside. If there are no flights, then you can contact your consulate or embassy and request for a COVID-19 to be issued, which can be used to get an additional 30 day extension of stay.
It seems workable.. *TODAY*. We do not know what will happen tomorrow. I don't feel comfortable giving advice for things that may happen a week from now.
If there are flight to return to your home country, I suggest returning home and applying for a long term visa at the nearest consulate where you reside. If there are no flights, then you can contact your consulate or embassy and request for a COVID-19 to be issued, which can be used to get an additional 30 day extension of stay.
George *********
OPThanks for advice
Benjamin ******
When was that updated? I talked to SCB yesterday and they weren't issuing COVID-19 insurance anymore.
Benjamin ******
What's that?
Se ****
I read somewhere Chulalongkorn hospital have cheaper tests. If you have Thai Bank account some offer inexpensive covid-19 insurance. SCB have for less than 300 THB.
Benjamin ******
I'd be careful about the COVID-19 insurance from banks/ cell phone companies. They may not meet the requirements to return back to Thailand.
Willemaerts ********
@Sebastian ********
once again to make it clear , if you leave Thailand and you would like to return (if you can) you need a medical certificate that you’re fit to fly and that you show no signs of C-19 infection + an insurance that covers up to 100.000$, including Covid-19. The insurance that you mention can only be used when you’re living inside Thailand. Can’t be used to enter the country again once you have left.
James ***********
Covid 19 health insurance... unpurchasable ?
James ********
That is why I say...lets see what more happens in coming days.
James ********
A travel insurance policy for US $100,000 obtained online for one month coverage was accepted by Thai Immigration Officer at the Thai/Cambodia land border.
James ********
A med cert...appearance of good health and no signs if COVID-19 from a local Cambodian health clinic near a Thai land border was accepted by Thai Immigration three days ago.
James ********
@James **********
again...lets see what is accepted. Real world its not available in a NEW POLICY...Thais should know that it makes good headlines to require it.James ********
I suggest pause...lets see whats being accepted at airports, borders and Thai Immigration.
Avoid the costly test...for a few days.
Avoid the costly test...for a few days.
Barry ******
Depending on your circumstances you might be able to get a letter from your embassy to allow extensions based on extraordinary circumstances
Marty *********
I assume you mean the Covid19 health insurance? General health insurance is always a good thing too but you don't need it to get a non-O visa if that is what you are planning to do.
Wouter *******************
Good luck. Let us know how all of that went please.
George *********
OPYep and takes 7 days for results
Terry **********
Don't forget, the test can't be more than 72hrs old when boarding to come back.
George *********
OPFor the covid test ?
George *********
OPCheers will do
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