Frequently asked questions
When did Phuket re-open to international tourists?
The Phuket Sandbox program commenced on 1 July 2021, allowing vaccinated international visitors to visit Phuket and enjoy a holiday without the need to quarantine, under certain conditions.
Which countries can I travel from?
Find the list here.
What airlines are operating direct flights to Phuket?
Cathay Pacific, HK Express, El Al Israel Airlines, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Thai Airways International (THAI) are operating direct international flights to Phuket. Please check flight schedules on the respective airlines’ websites.
Do I need to be vaccinated to visit Phuket?
Yes. For quarantine-free travel, you must be vaccinated at least 14 days before your arrival. Children under 18 years of age do not need to be vaccinated but will require a negative Covid-19 test taken within 72-hours of travel.
Where can I stay in Phuket and Koh Samui?
You need to book SHA+ certified accommodation before you travel to fulfil the requirements. You may not stay elsewhere according to the government rules. Here's our list of SHA+ certified villas in Phuket and Koh Samui.
What is SHA+ certified accommodation?
SHA+ certification means that the property strictly follows government guidelines and sanitation protocols for safety against Covid-19 and that at least 70% of the staff has been fully vaccinated. Only SHA+ certified accommodation can be booked under the Phuket Sandbox program.
What else do I need to travel to Phuket (and Koh Samui after that)?
In addition to being vaccinated and booking SHA+ certified accommodation, you will also require the following:
- Have been in a Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) approved country for 21 days prior to departure (Thai citizens are exempt). List of countries.
- Travel insurance covering travel as well as health issues relating to Covid-19 (Thai citizens are exempt).
- Any relevant visa or exemptions, depending on your passport country.
- Flight tickets should be bought before you book the accommodation (for both Phuket and your selected extension area).
- Negative test results indicating that Covid-19 was not detected, issued no more than 72-hours before departure (Thai citizens are exempt).
- A Certificate of Entry – You can apply for your COE here. If you want to stay 7 nights in Phuket and another 7 nights in the extension area/s, you still only need to apply for one COE as long as you have all the required documentation.
- Bring all documentation with you to Phuket and your extension area.
- After your 7 nights in Phuket, you must obtain a ‘Transfer Form’ issued by your accommodation in Phuket indicating that you have stayed in Phuket for 7 nights, which you will need to show together with the negative results of their 2 COVID-19 tests (conducted on Day 0 and Day 6-7 in Phuket).
Will I be tested on arrival?
Yes, at the airport you’ll undergo a health screening and RT-PCR test. You’ll need to take two more tests during your 14-day stay, on Day 6/7 and Day 12/13 (in your selected extension area).
What if I test positive?
You will be taken to a hospital for the required treatment. You will need to bear the cost, which should be covered by your insurance.
Can I explore Phuket?
On arrival, you will need to go directly to your booked accommodation and wait for your Covid-19 test results. When you receive a negative result, you are free to travel anywhere in Phuket.
Do I need to arrange transfers?
If you’re staying with us, we will take care of your ground transport arrangements. If you wish to travel to Koh Samui after your 7 nights in Phuket, you will need to book and pay for your air travel on Bangkok Airways’ Phuket-Samui flight in advance. For more information regarding this special route, please visit: www.bangkokair.com.
Can I stay in Phuket for less than 7 nights, then move to my extension area for the remaining nights to complete 14 nights as required?
No, this is not permitted. You have to stay in Phuket for the first 7 nights before you can spend another 7 nights in an approved extension area such as Koh Samui.
For more information about the Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension program, visit: www.tatnews.org.
Can domestic tourists travel to Phuket?
Yes, starting 8 September 2021, domestic tourists are allowed to visit Phuket for tourism purposes. However, they must have documentation proof including a copy of the advance payment confirmation for hotel accommodation. They are required to register via www.gophuget.com and show the registration’s QR Code as proof before entering Phuket.
