Health screening on arrival
Russian health officials are boarding flights from Bangkok before passengers can disembark at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport, using thermal imaging cameras to check temperatures. The measures took effect earlier this week and apply to travelers arriving from Thailand.
The decision follows health data from Thailand showing approximately 140,000 COVID-19 cases recorded since the start of 2026. The surge has drawn attention from Russian authorities, who cite the transmission levels as the reason for tighter checks.
What changes for Thai travelers
All travelers from Thailand, regardless of vaccination status, must now meet stricter entry requirements:
• Negative RT-PCR test taken within two days of arrival in Russia
• Medical certificate in Russian or English
• No quarantine requirement is currently in place
Travellers should also note that vaccination certificates alone do not bypass the testing rule. Russian policy currently treats all arrivals from Thailand under the same protocol.
Digital registration requirement
Since June 2025, Thai citizens entering Russia under the visa-free scheme must register through the Gosuslugi RuID mobile application at least 72 hours before travel.
The app collects personal details, travel information and basic biometric data, including facial images and passport photos. Upon completion, travellers receive a QR code to present at immigration.
If the system is unstable, immigration officials can manually input data and issue a paper slip. This document is needed for hotel check-in and exit formalities. Authorities recommend registering 7 to 14 days in advance to allow for technical delays.
Visa and documentation basics
Thai passport holders may enter Russia without a visa for up to 30 days for tourism, visiting friends or family, or short-term activities. Those wishing to stay longer or travel for work and study must apply for an appropriate visa through regular channels.
Standard requirements remain in place: a passport with at least six months' validity beyond the intended exit date, proof of onward travel within the 30-day window, and evidence of sufficient funds. Hotels must register guests who stay longer than seven days.
Why Russia acted now
Thailand reported a significant spike in COVID-19 infections during August 2026, with more than 57,000 cases recorded that month alone. The dominant strain is NB.1.8.1, an Omicron subvariant known for higher transmissibility and immune evasion, though available data does not indicate increased severity.
Health officials in Thailand have recorded 26 deaths throughout 2026, mostly among elderly patients and those with serious underlying conditions.
Separately, Thailand's Department of Disease Control is monitoring suspected pneumonic plague cases in Russia but assesses the risk of importation as low. No additional travel restrictions or screening measures for arrivals from Russia into Thailand have been announced.
Practical advice for departing passengers
Medical costs in Russia can be high for foreigners, and foreign debit and credit cards may not function reliably due to financial restrictions. Authorities advise carrying cash in US dollars or euros for exchange upon arrival.
Travel insurance, while not mandatory, is recommended. Check with your airline and the Russian Embassy in Bangkok for the most current requirements before departure, as health measures can change rapidly.
