Lese-majeste law is strictly enforced -- social media posts can lead to 15 years imprisonment.
Section 112 of the Thai Criminal Code: up to 15 years per count. Applies to social media posts, sharing articles, even liking posts. Foreigners have been arrested and extradited. Do not comment on the Royal Family in any form while in Thailand.
Defacing, stepping on, or posing disrespectfully with Buddha statues is a criminal offense. In 2015, a tourist was arrested for a Buddha tattoo photo. Think twice before any Buddha-themed photos.
Thai currency bears the King's image. Stepping on a rolling coin to stop it is illegal. Fine up to 2,000 THB. Seemingly minor but enforced.
Unlicensed firearms: up to 10 years. Realistic toy guns and BB guns require a permit. Pepper spray is illegal without a permit.
Kratom was decriminalized in Thailand in 2021 for domestic use but is still regulated. Exporting kratom is prohibited. Confirm current status before travel as laws change.
Forwarding messages, sharing links, or even reacting to content critical of the monarchy can trigger arrest under the Computer Crimes Act. Use a VPN and exercise extreme caution with any political content.
| Littering | 2,000 THB (~$55) |
| Smoking in prohibited areas | 5,000 THB (~$140) |
| Jaywalking | 200 THB (~$6) |
| Nudity / topless on beach | Up to 500 THB |
| Entering temple improperly dressed | Entry refused + possible fine |
| Overstaying visa | 500 THB/day, max 20,000 THB + deportation |
| Drug possession (any amount) | Mandatory imprisonment -- NO fine option |
If arrested, say nothing until you have embassy contact and a lawyer. Thai legal proceedings can be very slow -- prevention is everything here.
This is general travel information, not legal advice. Laws change -- verify with your government's official travel advisory and local legal counsel before travel. US: travel.state.gov · UK: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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