What are the new travel regulations for the reopened Mae Sai border crossing between Thailand and Myanmar?

Question

Today the Thai-Myanmar border crossing of Mae Sai reopened. It appears to be the first "proper" land border reopening that should allow foreigners and Thais to pass, without being restricted to the border town or a border run (for certain foreign nationalities). However, it is noted that Covid restrictions apply on the Myanmar side and will apply for at least one month before they are re-evaluated. Everyone, Thais and foreigners will need either proof of vaccination or a Covid rapid antigen test done within 48 hours and this proof must be printed out. No electronic copies accepted. Another rapid antigen test will be performed on arrival in Tachilek at a cost of 15000 Myanmar Kyat. Only one day pass holders are exempted from the on arrival test. It is not known whether foreigners, who request a one day pass will be exempted or if this only applies to Thais holding border passes.

The link is only in Thai. I'm sure English language media will soon have their own versions, but they're usually delayed by a day or two.

The link is only in Thai. I'm sure English language media will soon have their own versions, but they're usually delayed by a day or two.

Ask Thailand · Answer

The Mae Sai border crossing between Thailand and Myanmar has reopened, allowing both foreigners and Thais to cross without previous restrictions. However, travelers must present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid rapid antigen test conducted within 48 hours. On arrival in Tachilek, an additional test will be required, except for one-day pass holders, whose exemption status for foreigners is unclear. Current Covid protocols will be in place for at least a month. While some sources indicate a return to normal travel might be imminent, access is currently limited to Tachilek, with no travel to Kengtung allowed in the initial phase.

Richard ********* · Answer

than fly onwards? since if u cant travel to Kentung whats the point of entering Burma there as even pre covid no routes open to foreigners onwards

Paul ******* · Answer

At least one Thai source is now saying that for the time being (presumably the first month) travel is permitted only to Tachilek and not Kengtung. However, Vichet, a Thai automobile caravan operator is already selling self-drive tours to Kengtung for travel in May. So this seems to indicate that near normal travel, at least across this checkpoint, is imminent.

Twiggy ****** · Answer

Thanks for the good news.

Paul ******* · Answer

Nonsense @brandon thurkettle. No Myanmar borders have reopened "2 years ago". Prior to now, the only Burmese borders open were for traders and repatriates. Since January 12, Mae Sot is open for westerners and select Asian nationalities doing border runs. Now this border is fully open. Ive seen the Burmese government notice on entry regulations including Covid requirements posted Jan 19, 2023.

Brandon ************ · Answer

Various Myanmar borders have "opened" over the last 2 years based on news articles. Until there's an actual report from a foreigner using this border, it should still be considered closed to foreigners like every border to Myanmar.

What are the new travel regulations for the reopened Mae Sai border crossing between Thailand and Myanmar?

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