Thailand’s National Communicable Diseases Committee has approved a proposed relaxation of travel restrictions, to allow certain foreigners, from countries deemed as low risk, such as New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Taiwan and some Chinese cities, to enter Thailand.

Thailand’s Public Health Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, who chaired the meeting today (Wednesday) said that, in the initial stage, Thailand will pair with countries considered low risk, under a travel bubble tourism arrangement, which will be reassessed periodically.

The first to be allowed into Thailand again are members of the diplomatic corps, foreigners who need to visit Thailand for economic and social reasons, such as businessmen, investors and expatriates with residences in Thailand.

The easing of travel restrictions will be in three phases. The first is for short and long term arrivals, including guests of the Thai government, businessmen and students among others. The second are those seeking Thai health services and the third are tourists and migrant workers.

Mr. Anutin said those who stay in Thailand for fewer than 14 days will not be required to spend time in state quarantine, but will have to follow the rules of the Diseases Control Department, which include presentation of a doctor’s certificate to show that they are free from the virus and evidence of insurance that covers medical examinations and treatment.

The proposed relaxations will be submitted to the CCSA, chaired by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, on June 29^th.