When does the 72-hour rule for the COVID-19 PCR test for travel to Thailand start? Is it from the test date or the results issuance?

COVID-19 Travel Regulations Thailand Entry Requirements PCR Test for Travel Traveling to Thailand Visa and Immigration Rules Testing Requirements COVID-19 Guidelines for Expats

Dec 16, 2021

3 years ago

Gregory ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I'm planning ahead for the PCR covid test required for travel to Thailand. The rule from the Thai website states "Such COVID-19 test result must be issued no more than 72 hours before departure". So does the clock on the 72 hours start clicking when my covid test is initiated in the clinic or when my covid test results are issued?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The 72-hour window for the COVID-19 PCR test required for entry into Thailand begins when the test results are issued, not when the test is taken. However, some airlines and transit countries may have different requirements, so it’s essential to check both those and time the test accordingly. For optimal results and to avoid complications at the airport, it's recommended to get tested as close to your travel date as possible and confirm local testing options that can provide timely results.

Stacy ********

I flew out of country into Thailand on a Friday and took my test Wednesday @1400.

So as long as it is 72 hours or less you should be fine.

3 years ago

Scott *******

I’m reading some comments saying 72 hours from result. So in that case, I could request the laboratory not to issue my results until as late as possible? Maybe even a week after test? It does not make sense unless it’s time from swab test.

3 years ago

Jeremy ********

Most airports now have labs close by with some having results back to you in 2 hours…check your local airport to see if this service is available

3 years ago

John *********

Best to do it as late as possible to be honest. Check on time it takes for results. Dam guarantee by 12 pm same day

3 years ago

Gregory ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@John ********

thanks

3 years ago

Reply to

Gregory ********

Jared **********

As other have stated it’s from the result, when I came last year my test was almost 4 days old.

For simplicity at the airport I would suggest if it’s feasible to get the test and the results both done within 72 hours, last thing you want to deal with is a confused flight worker

3 years ago

Gregory ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Jared *********

agree

3 years ago

Reply to

Gregory ********

Charles ********

Thailand it is based on when the result are done.. But most places require based on swab. You will need to check your airlines requirement. It very likely would be 72hr from swab instead.... And also Singapore vaccinated travel lane flights do require 48 as mentioned already.

3 years ago

Gregory ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Charles *******

In going to take the test as late as possible. I think my results come back in two days.

3 years ago

Reply to

Gregory ********

Michael ********

When its issued.

But rules change if transiting through Singapore and then test and results have to be done within 48 hrs

3 years ago

Gregory ********