Do you need insurance for a trip to Thailand in 2026
Russian citizens do not need a visa for a tourist trip to Thailand. From 15 September 2026 Thailand cancelled the extended 60-day visa-free scheme; Russians can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Before travelling you must fill in the TDAC digital arrival card — it is free. Tourists are currently not required to show medical insurance at the border, but Thailand’s entry rules have changed several times in recent years, so check them before departure.
Thailand is a destination where a policy really is often used. Private hospitals in Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya are of an excellent standard, but prices are high, and a serious injury can lead to a bill of tens of thousands of dollars. Without a policy a clinic may ask for prepayment or a payment guarantee before treatment starts.
Which sum to choose
We recommend USD 50,000 for any trip. If you spend the winter in Thailand for several months, travel with children or are older, consider USD 100,000. For a long trip, keep the period of stay in mind: the policy must cover every day you are in the country.
The main risks in Thailand
- Motorbikes. The most common cause of serious injuries among tourists. Insurance covers a motorbike accident only if the option is included and you have a category A driving licence, wear a helmet and are sober. Without a licence the insurer will almost certainly refuse.
- Dengue fever. Widespread in Southeast Asia, especially in the rainy season. Some plans cover it only with a separate option — check this when choosing.
- Diving and snorkelling. The Similan Islands, Koh Tao and Phi Phi attract divers. Add the diving option and decompression chamber treatment.
- The sea. During the monsoon season Phuket beaches can have strong rip currents. Swim where there are no red flags.
- Intestinal infections and sun. Spicy street food, ice in drinks and strong sun are typical reasons for seeing a doctor. Sunburn is covered by a separate option.
- Islands. From small islands an injured person sometimes has to be evacuated by boat or helicopter. Make sure medical transportation is included in the plan.
How to buy travel insurance to Thailand on polisre.ru
The calculator at the top of the page is already set to “Thailand”. Quotes and purchase are handled by Polis Re’s partner, the Cherehapa service: you compare plans from 16 Russian insurance companies and buy a policy online, and the policy itself is issued by the insurer you choose.
- Enter your travel dates and the age of each traveller.
- Choose the sum insured and add the options you need: motorbike riding, diving, dengue fever, sunburn.
- Compare plans: the deductible, the assistance company, limits for individual risks and the exclusions in the policy terms.
- Enter your first and last name in Latin letters exactly as in your international passport, then pay by card.
- The policy is sent to your e-mail. Save it on your phone and print it if that is convenient.
If you fall ill or get injured in Thailand
Do not go to a random clinic: without approval from the assistance company the insurer may refuse to pay or reimburse only part of the costs. Here is the procedure.
- Contact the assistance company using the phone number in the policy. Call costs are reimbursed if the policy includes this service.
- Describe the situation and get a case number and the clinic address.
- Keep all medical documents and receipts, even if the assistance company paid for treatment.
- In an emergency, call an ambulance and report the case to the assistance company as soon as you can.
What counts as an insured event and how to get reimbursed is explained in the “Insured event” section.
Nearby destinations
If your route covers several countries, see the other pages too: insurance to Vietnam, insurance to Indonesia, insurance to China, insurance to Sri Lanka. The full list of destinations, annual policies and tips on choosing cover are on the travel insurance page.