Ask question

What is the difference between PCR-COVID and RT-PCR-COVID tests for entry into Thailand?

COVID-19 Tests RT-PCR Thailand Immigration Visa Regulations Health Requirements Expat Information

Apr 13, 2021

4 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

PCR-COVID and RT-PCR-COVID.  Any test difference?  Worth a concern?  My doctor says no, but what does Thai Immigration say?

1,109

views

0

likes

22

all likes

10

replies

0

images

9

users

TLDR : Answer Summary

The discussion revolves around the difference between PCR-COVID and RT-PCR-COVID tests, specifically regarding their acceptance by Thai Immigration for entry into Thailand. It is clarified that the RT-PCR test is required, and failing to have it specifically labeled as such can result in denial of entry or boarding. Comments emphasize the importance of following official terminology strictly as outlined in entry requirements.

Greg *********

The main difference in the tests is that you won't get into Thailand without the RT- prefix 🙄

Like

Reply

Neil ************

If it does not state RT PCR, you will not get entry into Thailand. I have a colleague who was refused a boarding ticket in Seoul because his Test only stated PCR and he is now undergoing 14 days quarantine in Seoul

Like

Reply

ᘻᗅᖶᖶᗁᕦᙛ *******

Did your doctor give you an answer there’s no reason to come here

Like

Reply

Joan *********

Medically there may or there may not be a difference but in my experience the authorities insist on seeing the words and terms as prescribed in the entry requirements.

Like

Reply

Isaac ***********

RT-PCR (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) test

Like

Reply

Tommi ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

What is the difference?

Like

Reply

Frédéric ******************

All PCR tests are RT-PCR, but the Thai authorities told their staff that people entering the kingdom should have a RT-PCR, so they expect the full name of the test to be written on the certificate as they are not medics.

Like

Reply

Dee **********

why didn't you ask your doctor. 🤔 Better than here.

Like

Reply

Steve *******

Read his OP again. He DID ask his Dr.

Like

Reply

Reply to

Steve *******

Reply

Lisa ********************

Must be RT PCR

Like

Reply

Reply to

Lisa ********************

Reply

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

... members · 60% approval rate

The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

View the Conversation

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

Is the RT-PCR test the same as a regular PCR test for travel to Thailand?

5 comments

3 years ago

Is a saliva RT-PCR test accepted for entry into Thailand from the Philippines?

6 comments

3 years ago

Is an "rt - qpcr" test acceptable for entry into Thailand instead of "rt - pcr"?

17 comments

3 years ago

What are the RT-PCR test requirements for traveling to Thailand, specifically for the Phuket Sandbox?

15 comments

3 years ago

Is a "Nucleic Acid Amplification with Probe Detection" test valid for entering Thailand?

26 comments

3 years ago

What kind of COVID-19 test is required for travel to Thailand?

7 comments

3 years ago

Will a PCR POCT COVID test cause issues for immigration to Thailand if it doesn't state RT?

10 comments

3 years ago

Is an RT-PCR test the same as a PCR test for entering Thailand?

4 comments

3 years ago

Is a pre-departure PCR test acceptable for traveling to Thailand, or does it specifically have to be an RT-PCR test?

5 comments

3 years ago

Is the RT-PCR test the same as a fit to fly PCR test?

26 comments

3 years ago

Will an RT-SARS-COV-2 PCR test result be accepted for entry into Thailand?

11 comments

3 years ago

Can I enter Thailand with a PCR test that is not RT-PCR?

5 comments

3 years ago

What kind of PCR test is needed to enter Thailand: RT-PCR or Fit to Fly?

24 comments

3 years ago

What type of COVID test is required to enter Thailand: PCR or rapid antigen test?

15 comments

3 years ago

Is a regular PCR test sufficient for COE requirements in Thailand?

2 comments

3 years ago

How strict is Thai immigration regarding RT-PCR test results at the airport?

2 comments

3 years ago

What companies can you recommend for Covid testing when traveling, and what's the difference between RT-PCR and PCR tests?

1 comments

3 years ago

What are the requirements for flying to Thailand with Air Canada regarding COVID tests and face-to-face appointments?

23 comments

4 years ago

Does Thailand accept saliva PCR tests for entry requirements?

25 comments

4 years ago

What type of COVID-19 test is required for travel to Thailand: PCR or RT-PCR?

67 comments

4 years ago

Is Boots' PCR COVID-19 testing accepted for entry into Thailand?

17 comments

4 years ago

Is a Covid RT-PCR rapid test acceptable for entering Thailand?

5 comments

4 years ago

Are rapid Covid tests acceptable for entry into Thailand, or do I need a PCR test?

16 comments

4 years ago

What are the requirements for COVID-19 testing to fly from London or Abu Dhabi to Bangkok?

16 comments

4 years ago

Is an original RT-PCR test with an embossed seal required to enter Thailand?

8 comments

4 years ago

Data protection policy Terms and conditions Disclaimer Privacy policy Refund policy

The asq:thailand community, consisting of multiple Q/A groups with over 100,000 members, powers this platform. It is not an official government resource. Our members actively contribute to this resource, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its complete reliability. Assistance to travelers is provided as a community service.