Thailand

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Attacks, including bombings and shootings, are possible anytime. They can happen anywhere, including Bangkok and Phuket.

Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks.

Thai authorities have warned of possible attacks on symbolic dates or holidays.

Possible targets for future attacks include:

• embassies
• shopping malls, markets and banks
• hotels and beach locations
• restaurants, bars and nightclubs
• schools and places of worship
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals or other gatherings in public spaces

Other targets may include public buildings, public transport, airports and sea ports.

To reduce your risk of being involved in a terrorist attack: 

• have a clear exit plan in case there's a security incident
• be alert to possible threats
• report suspicious activity or items to police
• monitor the media for threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack: 

• leave the area as soon as it's safe
• follow the advice of local authorities
• don't gather in a group after an attack
• don't gather in a group if you're evacuated from a building
• avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Gun-related violence can occur at any time.

In October 2023, 3 people were killed and 4 injured in a shooting at the Siam Paragon Mall in Bangkok.

In October 2022, 36 people were killed in a shooting and stabbing incident in Nong Bua Lamphu province. 

Since 2004, over 7500 people have been killed and many more injured in the southern border provinces of Thailand (Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat).

More information:

• Terrorism

Thailand-Cambodia border

The security situation along the Thailand-Cambodia border remains unpredictable.

Due to the recent ongoing armed clashes along the Thailand-Cambodia border which has included military strikes and violence, and the presence of landmines, we continue to advise do not travel to areas within 50 kilometres of the Thailand-Cambodia land border throughout the provinces of Sa Kaeo, Buriram, Si Saket, Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Chanthaburi and mainland Trat. 

Follow the advice of local authorities, including when navigating maritime areas near the maritime borders, monitor local media for updates and pay close attention to your personal security.

The following temples, popular with tourists, now fall in the do not travel area:

• the area around the Preah Vihear temple (known as Khao Pra Viharn in Thailand)
• the Ta Kwai temple (known as Ta Krabei in Cambodia)
• the Ta Muen Thom temple (known as Ta Moan in Cambodia)
• Don Tawal temple
• Chong Bok temple
• Chong An Ma temple
• Chong Chom temple.

All border crossing points along the Thailand-Cambodia border are currently closed. Monitor local media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities.

Thailand-Myanmar border

Fighting and armed theft can occur along the Thailand-Myanmar border. This includes:

• fighting between the Myanmar military forces and armed groups
• clashes between Thai security forces and armed criminal groups, such as drug traffickers

Armed clashes between the Myanmar military forces and armed groups inside Myanmar may lead to border closures.

If you try to cross the border illegally, you may be detained and deported.

Bandits may target you if you travel through national parks in this border region.

If you travel to this region:

• monitor local media for updates
• follow the advice of local authorities
• watch out for other signs of unrest
• pay close attention to your personal security
• take official warnings seriously

Thailand-Malaysia border

Reconsider your need to travel to or from the three most southern provinces:

• Yala
• Pattani
• Narathiwat

Violence includes attacks and bombings, with deaths and injuries. Since 2004, over 7500 people have been killed and many more injured in these provinces.

Bombings are often coordinated to target people who respond to the first explosion and then secondary bombings occur.

Over the past few years, multiple coordinated explosions have occurred in the southern border provinces, and low-level insurgent activity continues.  

If you travel to or stay in these provinces, you could get caught up in violence directed at others.

Attacks can happen at any time.

The security situation in Thailand can be unpredictable. Large protests have occurred in Bangkok and other areas. In previous years, large political protests and government crowd control operations have resulted in violence.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid demonstrations, processions and public gatherings
• follow media and other sources
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities
• if you see a suspicious package or bag, stay clear and report it to Police

More information:

• Protests and civil unrest

Sexual assault and violent crime

Travellers may experience sexual assault, other assault and robbery.

Be extra careful in tourist spots such as Khao San Road and Sukhumvit in Bangkok, as well as the night-time entertainment areas in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket.

Don't leave food or drinks unattended. They may be contaminated with drugs or other toxic substances. You're at higher risk of sexual assault and theft if you get drugged.

Stay with people you trust at parties, in bars, nightclubs and taxis. Be cautious if you're leaving a venue with someone you've just met. Even if it's just as friends. You're more vulnerable when separated from people you know.

Get urgent medical attention if you think you or someone else has been drugged.

If you're a victim of violent crime, including rape, get immediate medical attention.

Under Thai law, courts will only accept the results of a medical examination from some government hospitals. After you've been examined by a government hospital, you can receive medical attention at a private hospital. Please contact the Australian Embassy Thailand, Australian Consulate-General in Phuket, or Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra for assistance.

More information:

• Partying safely

Petty crime

Money and passports have been stolen from budget hotel and hostel rooms, and from bags on public transport. Thieves also target luggage stored on trains and below buses.

Bags have been snatched by thieves on motorcycles or sliced open with razor blades. 

To reduce your risk of theft:

• don't leave valuables in luggage stowed under buses or away from you on trains
• be wary of motorcycles approaching from behind as you walk on the footpath
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you
• consider carrying your bank cards and cash separately to avoid losing all your funds if you lose your bag

Cyber security 

Thailand has strict defamation laws. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media, including for posting negative reviews. 

Kidnapping 

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, even in places that seem safe.

The Australian Government’s longstanding policy is that it doesn’t may payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information: 

• Kidnapping 

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes for:

•  marine tourism activities, such as scuba diving and snorkelling
• water sports, such as parasailing and jet-skiing
• adventure activities, such as bungee jumping, zip lining, hiking and rock climbing
• animal attractions, including elephant safaris

Thailand has introduced stricter regulations regarding scuba diving and snorkelling activities. You cannot touch or move marine life, including coral, stir up sediment or feed fish. You must also wear a life vest when snorkelling. You may be reported to local authorities for not following regulations.

If you plan to do an adventure activity or sport:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• only use reputable businesses who comply with the safety regulations of the country you’re visiting
• ask the operator about their qualifications and safety policies, including first aid training and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Thailand experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• storms
• floods
• earthquakes
• tsunamis

Severe weather events are likely to disrupt transport, electricity and communications.

To stay safe during severe weather:

• check media and weather reports
• check in with your tour operator
• take official warnings seriously
• don't enter areas affected by flooding or landslides

If there is a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• keep in contact with friends and family
• monitor the media and other local sources of information
• follow the advice of local authorities
• Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Storms and floods

Severe storms and widespread seasonal flooding can occur without warning. This includes flash floods.

The wet season in north and central Thailand is from May to October.

In Koh Samui and the south-east of the peninsula, the wet season is from November to March.

More information:

• Thai Meteorological Department

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes occur in Thailand.

Tsunamis are more likely in Thailand because of the risk of earthquakes. 

Check with the Indian Ocean Tsunami Information Centre for further information.

If you're near the coast, move to high ground straight away if advised, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

More information:

• Thai Meteorological Department

Medicines you buy in Australia may not be available in Thailand. Some may even be illegal or restricted. You may need a permit. 

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Thailand by contacting the Royal Thai Embassy in Australia. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Get medical advice before buying medicine in Thailand. Travellers have been arrested for carrying medicine they bought at a Thai pharmacy without a prescription.

Insect-borne illnesses

Outbreaks of insect-borne illnesses occur, and are common during the rainy season:

• November to March in Koh Samui and the south-east of Thailand
• May to October in the rest of Thailand, including Phuket

Insect-borne illnesses include:

• Dengue, which peaks in July and August although it is prevalent throughout the year - a vaccine is available in Thailand. Consult a medical professional.
• Malaria
• Zika virus
• Chikungunya
• Japanese encephalitis
• Filariasis

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Other health risks are common. They include:

• Rabies
• HIV/AIDS, hepatitis and other sexually transmitted infections
• Mpox - the Thai government has introduced a range of measures to limit the spread of Mpox, including, for individuals who test positive, mandatory quarantine and treatment at one of a number of hospitals equipped with negative pressure rooms
• Anthrax, in northeastern Thailand

To protect yourself from illness:

• don't ever feed, pat or tease monkeys, even if you're encouraged to
• if you're bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey or other animal, get treatment as soon as possible
• purchase meat from reputable sources and do not eat raw or undercooked meat
• avoid animal products that could have been sourced from animals that may have died of natural causes
• avoid contact with dead animals or carcasses

Ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

More information:

• Mpox

Smoke haze and air pollution

Thailand has high levels of air pollution. It can reach hazardous levels. Bangkok and Chiang Mai can be particularly bad. 

Air pollution can make bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions worse. 

Smoke haze is an issue across the north and north-east of Thailand from March to April.

Check air quality levels on the World Air Quality Index.

Get advice from your doctor before you travel. 

There’s no agreement between Australia and Thailand for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

Medical facilities

In an emergency, contact an ambulance on:

• 1724 in Bangkok
• 1669 in all other parts of Thailand

The standard of medical facilities varies. 

Private hospitals in major cities have high standards of medical care. Services can be limited in other areas of Thailand.

Hospitals and doctors often need to confirm your insurance before they'll treat you, even in an emergency. Otherwise, you may need to pay cash up-front. Costs can be very high.

Hospitals in Bangkok and other large cities can treat serious illnesses and accidents. In other areas, you may need to be moved to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Decompression chambers are located near popular dive sites in:

• Koh Tao
• Koh Samui
• Phuket
• Pattaya
• Bangkok

Medical tourism

Medical tourism, including for cosmetic and sex-change operations, is common.

Make sure your travel insurance covers complications and medical evacuation.

Standards at discount and uncertified medical establishments can be poor. Serious and life-threatening complications can result.

Some hospitals and clinics have refused to provide compensation for patients:

• who aren't satisfied with the results of cosmetic surgery
• who are harmed during surgery
• who die during surgery

Do your research. Choose your medical service providers with care.

Don't use discount or uncertified medical service providers.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.

Possession of even small quantities of drugs for recreational purposes can lead to long jail sentences and deportation.

Thai authorities may conduct spot-checks for illegal drugs at airports and in tourist areas.

Travellers have been targeted for narcotic tests. Under Thai law, authorities have the right to demand urine samples from people suspected of taking illegal drugs.

If you're asked to submit a urine sample, ask to do it at a police station. You can also ask to contact the Tourist Police on 1155 and request English-speaking officers.

The use of cannabis is limited to medicinal purposes only. The content of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) must be below 0.2% in weight and you must have a prescription from a locally recognised professional.

Cannabis use in public places remains illegal, and smoking outside is considered a public nuisance. Offenders risk fines and arrest.

Prescribing cannabis or its by-product for recreational use in establishments, selling cannabis online or through a vending machine, as well as advertising for commercial purpose is prohibited.

Be aware that in the next destination you're travelling to, including when transiting, illicit drugs including cannabis may be illegal. This may include residual amounts of illicit drugs in your system (such as in your blood or saliva) or on items you're carrying.

Follow directions from local authorities.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy laws

Commercial surrogacy is illegal in Thailand. If you break the law, authorities may arrest and jail you.

More information:

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt a child

Alcohol laws 

The legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 20 years old. 

It may be illegal to buy, sell or consume alcohol at certain times of the day and at certain locations. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Fines may apply if you don't comply.

E-cigarettes and vaporisers

E-cigarettes, e-brake, e-cigars, other vaporisers (vapes) and refills are illegal, even for personal use. 

Producing, importing, transferring or selling these items is illegal. You face either 10 years of imprisonment or a fine up to Thai Baht (THB) 1 million, or both.

Concealing, disposing, purchasing or receiving these items is also illegal. You face either 5 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to THB 500,000, or both. 

Other laws

Penalties for breaking the law can be severe.

These penalties can also apply to anyone aged under 18 years who is subject to Thai juvenile judicial processes. Penalties can include detention in a juvenile or adult prison.

The death penalty can apply to:

• murder
• attempted murder
• rape
• drug offences
• crimes against the state, including treason
• some offences against the monarchy

Insulting the monarchy, or defacing images of the monarchy - including on a bank note bearing the King's image - can lead to prison terms of up to 15 years.

Take care not to cause offence when posting, commenting or liking items about the monarchy, including on social media.

In Thailand, it's illegal to:

• travel without carrying identification
• play poker, carry over 120 playing cards or gamble - other than at a few major race tracks
• fly a drone without being registered
• make a false statement to police, including about an insurance claim

It is also illegal to smoke on beaches in tourist areas.

Thai-Australian dual nationals may be required to complete military conscription.

If you're a dual national, contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Thailand before you travel.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Respect local customs and take care to not offend. Deliberately ignoring local customs can cause grave offence.

Do not show the soles of your feet or touch the top of a person's head. These are insulting in Thai culture.

If in doubt, ask for local advice.

Visas 

You can get a visa exemption for up to 60 days on arrival in Thailand for tourism and short-term business travel. Your passport must be valid for more than 6 months before entering Thailand. 

You must complete a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) within three days before arriving in Thailand. The TDAC is free and must be submitted online through the Thailand Immigration Bureau website. Beware of fake websites charging you a fee for the TDAC.

If you require an E-Visa, you can apply through the Official Thai E-Visa website. You can only apply if you're currently not in Thailand and in a country where E-visa services are available, and you're no longer required to submit your passports and supporting documents in person at the Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate-General. After the E-Visa application has been approved, a confirmation email will be sent, which can be printed and presented to airlines and Thai immigration officials when entering Thailand.

You must get an entry stamp from an immigration officer at the point of entry into Thailand. Don't get your visa, visa extension or entry stamp from visa shops or travel agents in Thailand.

A passport that has been altered or that contains counterfeit visas and entry/exit stamps is deemed invalid. You may be arrested, prosecuted and/or deported.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy or consulate of Thailand, the Royal Thai Embassy Canberra or Royal Thai Consulate-General Sydney. See the official website of the Tourism Authority of Thailand for the latest details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Visa overstays

If you overstay your visa, you'll need to pay a fine before you can leave. You can also be:

• arrested
• prosecuted
• jailed
• deported
• banned from re-entering Thailand.

Thai authorities can blacklist you, which means you can never return to Thailand.

Penalties for not paying the fine include long prison sentences. Conditions at Immigration Detention Centres are harsh.

More information:

• Thai Immigration Bureau

Border measures

You may be subject to biometric screening at points of entry. Clarify entry requirements with your airline, International Air Transport Association (IATA) or your nearest Thai Embassy. 

Travellers from Yellow Fever-endemic countries and those with Mpox outbreaks should pre-register through the Thai Health Pass digital platform before checking in with the airline at the country of origin.

Travel within Thailand

Foreign passengers must present their passport for domestic flights within Thailand. You may be refused boarding if you are unable to present your passport. 

Departure from Thailand

Travellers should refer to the relevant airline or travel provider for information about departing Thailand. 

More information:

• Royal Thai Embassy, Canberra
• IATA

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Don't give your passport to third parties - like a jet ski or motorcycle rental businesses - as a guarantee. Companies may hold on to the passport and ask for payment for damages.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

The currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). 

You can convert Australian dollars for THB at airports, tourist areas, major cities and towns.

Only exchange money at authorised money changers.

Most hotels, restaurants and higher-end shops accept international credit cards.

ATMs are available in cities and regional centres.

Card skimming occurs.

Driver's permit

To drive a car or motorcycle in Thailand, you'll need a valid international driving permit (IDP) and your Australian driver's licence for the type of vehicle you're using. Australian digital driver's licences may not be accepted. If you drive without the correct licence, you could be arrested or jailed. 

To drive a motorbike, you'll need a valid motorcycle licence. Some rental companies will tell you otherwise.

Don't drive any vehicles not covered by your Australian licence. In the event of an accident, you may not be covered under insurance.

The Department of Land Transport issues Thai driver’s licences. Contact them to confirm:

• your eligibility
• what documents you need to apply

The legal driving age in Thailand is 18.

Road travel

Thailand has one of the highest traffic-related fatality rates in the world. Motorcyclists are most at risk.

Road accidents are common, including in resort areas such as Phuket, Pattaya and Koh Samui. 

Driving in Thailand is dangerous due to:

• speeding
• reckless passing
• ignoring traffic laws

Be extra careful during holidays, such as Songkran (Thai New Year). Alcohol use and congestion are worse during these times.

Don't drink and drive.

If you're walking, use overhead walkways. Look in both directions before crossing streets, even at marked crossways.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Under Thai law, motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet. However, hire companies or motorcycle taxis rarely provide helmets. You may need to shop around to hire a helmet.

Australians are regularly injured or die in motorbike accidents in Thailand. Alcohol is often involved.

If you're in an accident, police may detain or arrest you until compensation is agreed. This can often cost thousands of dollars.

Many vehicle hire companies don't have insurance.

If you have a motorcycle accident, you could be responsible for any damages, loss or costs associated with injury to others. The embassy can't help you negotiate on compensation demands.

Visit the Australian Embassy Thailand or Australian Consulate-General Phuket websites for a list of lawyers in Thailand.

If you plan to hire a motorbike, make sure:

• your insurance policy covers you
• you have a valid motorcycle licence
• the hiring company has comprehensive and third-party insurance
• you know the excess you would need to pay if you have an accident
• you always wear a helmet

Don't drink and drive, or drink and ride.

Never give your passport as a deposit or guarantee.

Taxis, tuktuks and motorcycle taxis

Official, metered taxis are generally safe and convenient. Ensure the driver’s identification card is visible. Be alert to possible scams and safety risks.

Be aware of apparently friendly taxi or tuktuk drivers who offer you cheap tours. They may take you to shops where they receive a commission. You may be overcharged or sold worthless goods or gems.

Before you get in an unmetered taxi, tuktuk or motorcycle taxi, agree on the fare and the route.

If using rideshare apps such as Grab, make sure you enter the vehicle with the same plate number and name shown in the app.

Make sure your bags are secure when you're travelling in a tuktuk or motorcycle taxi.

Never put yourself in danger by confronting a taxi, tuktuk or motorcycle taxi driver. Call the Tourist Police on 1155 if you need help. 

Be careful when opening taxi doors. Look out for other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.

Sea travel

Ferry and speedboat travel can be dangerous. Serious incidents involving tourists have occurred and people have died.

If you plan on travelling by boat or ferry:

• check safety standards are in place
• check there is enough safety equipment for everyone
• wear your life jacket at all times
• avoid travelling after dark
• don't get on overcrowded boats

Air travel

Check Thailand's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 199.

Medical emergencies

Call 1669 for ambulance and rescue services.

Call 1724 for an ambulance in Bangkok.

Police

Call 191 for police.

Call 1155 for the tourist police, or contact them through the Thailand Tourist Police App (for tourists without a Thai SIM card). 

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Thailand

181 Wireless Road
Lumphini, Pathumwan
Bangkok, Thailand. 10330

Phone: +66 2 344 6300
Website: thailand.embassy.gov.au 
Email: consular.bangkok@dfat.gov.au 
Facebook: Australia in Thailand
X: @AusAmbBKK

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Consulate-General, Phuket

6th Floor CCM Complex
77/77 Chalermprakiat Rama 9 Road (Bypass Road)
Muang Phuket, Thailand, 83000

Phone: +66 76 317 700
Website: phuket.consulate.gov.au
E-mail: consular.phuket@dfat.gov.au

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia