Thailand makes Covid travel insurance compulsory for visitors
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), medical insurance with at least US$100,000 coverage is now a compulsory requirement for foreign visitors wishing to visit the Southeast Asian nation
As part of the new regulations from the Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) in Thailand, travellers must purchase travel insurance covering at least $100,000 for possible Covid-19 treatment should they wish to visit Thailand during the global pandemic.
TAT explains that the Thai General Insurance Association (TGIA) and the Thai Life Assurance Association (TLAA), as well as 16 leading and non-life insurance companies in Thailand, are partnering together to offer the Covid-19 insurance protection programme to foreign visitors.
The new OIC-endorsed medical insurance policy, which has been approved by the Thai Government, includes:
- Insurance coverage of $100,000, with direct billing, negating the need for travellers to pay out-of-pocket medical expenses at hospitals in Thailand
- In the case of death from Covid-19 infection, the insurance company will provide a life insurance benefit of $100,000 to the beneficiary.
TAT notes that the insurance premium cost is reasonable, the process is overseen by the OIC and can be purchased online, and that coverage begins immediately upon arrival in Thailand.
Peace of mind for inbound travellers
“TAT hopes the Covid-19 insurance protection programme, under the regulation of the OIC, offers additional peace of mind for foreign visitors, and hopefully makes it easier for inbound travellers before departing from their country of origin,” TAT Governor, Yuthasak Supasorn, said.
In September, the OIC approved Covid-19 travel insurance for foreigners entering the country. The new compulsory offering with $100,000 medical expense coverage is a logical step forward. Thailand is likely keen to keep its tourism industry open for business but won’t want to bear the brunt of Covid-19 medical costs.