Following the American Model: Thailand Limits Entry Amid Ebola Concerns, Imposes Quarantine and Pre-Departure Screening

After recently announcing major visa policy changes by restoring country-specific visa rules and ending the expanded 60-day visa-free program for travelers from over 90 countries, Thailand is introducing stricter entry and health screening measures for travelers arriving from or transiting through the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda.

The measure, similar to the ones adopted by the United States and India, follows updated guidance on Ebola virus disease prevention.

Limited Allowed and Mandatory Quarantine

• The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which recently announced a new direct flight between Warsaw and Bangkok on October 7, 2026, has confirmed that the Ministry of Public Health has designated both countries as dangerous communicable disease areas due to ongoing Ebola risk. The new measures took effect on May 27, 2026, at 18:00 local time.

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  Under the updated rules, travelers from the affected regions are only permitted to enter Thailand through Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. Upon arrival, communicable disease control officers will conduct health screenings and provide instructions in line with Thailand’s Communicable Diseases Act.

  Travelers who show no symptoms will be required to undergo a mandatory quarantine period of at least 21 days at locations designated by Thai authorities. Those who present symptoms consistent with Ebola virus disease will be transferred to a public health facility for isolation and treatment under strict medical supervision.

• Pre-Travel Requirements

  Authorities have also introduced additional pre-travel requirements. Foreign nationals must register through the Thailand Digital Arrival Card system, while Thai citizens must complete registration via the Thai Health Pass at airline check-in. Travelers are expected to provide accurate health and travel history information before boarding and upon arrival.

  Airlines operating flights to Thailand are now required to conduct pre-departure screening and submit passenger data to disease control officials in advance. Travellers are being advised to allow extra time for these procedures and comply fully with instructions from airline staff and health authorities.

  The Thai government has also advised its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. Those who must travel are encouraged to register with Thai embassies abroad and follow all local health guidance, as well as prepare for possible screening and quarantine upon return.

  The measures come after the World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, though it has not been classified as a pandemic emergency.

  Thai authorities said the measures will remain in place until the situation improves or further updates are issued by the World Health Organization or domestic health agencies. Travelers are encouraged to monitor official announcements closely, and further updates will be issued by TAT as new information becomes available.