Just over a week after the launch of Thailand’s pass system when the country opened for foreign visitors, there were complaints from tourists that they had experienced delays in receiving QR codes or had not received them at all. Those wishing to visit the country are currently advised to follow the instructions on tp.counsular.go.th.
Government spokesperson Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana on Sunday said that efforts were being taken to resolve these issues faced by the travelers. Prime Minister Chan-o-cha has been informed regarding the same and has asked the state agencies to fix the new system that was supposed to streamline the travel and health administration requirements for both foreign and Thai travellers.
Social media has been awash with criticism from travellers attempting to use the system. Travellers on Facebook group Thailand Reopening reported issues like never receiving QR code despite multiple application attempts, including middle name in NHS Covid pass and more. Users also found it difficult to chase applications once submitted and had no access to a clear communication center behind the digital system.
Mr. Thanakorn said that some of the vaccination verification documents were unintelligible. Thai officers had to manually verify the documents because of this some applicant’s didn’t receive the QR codes. In some cases the hotels booked by travellers were not linked to the hospitals that conducted RT-PCR tests resulting in confusion and delay.
Immediate approval was one of the highlight features of the platform by verifying applicants vaccination certificate via QR codes provided the issuing country has supplied the necessary data for document verification. The Department of Disease control also carries out inspections based on a set system to verify Safety and Health Administration, alternative quarantine systems and accommodation bookings. Once the application is approved travellers can download Thailand Pass QR code that proves their eligibility for travel.
Mr. Thanakorn said that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Digital Government Development Agency were working together to improve the Thailand Pass system. Changes in hotel drop-down lists, adding more countries and time for verification of vaccination documents are few of the changes they are working on.
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