Thailand Law Blog

New Tourist Tax? Thailand Government Plans Overtourism Solutions

Due to the overwhelming number of tourists returning to Thailand after the pandemic, tourist operators have urged the government to take action against overtourism. One of the primary measures being planned is a new tourist tax on all those entering the country in hopes that it will help combat overtourism by funding government initiatives to […]

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Minimum Wages Rise Again in Thailand

In addition to the raising of the minimum wage in Thailand which has been implemented in January 2024, a second wage increase has gone into effect as of April 2024, though only for workers in certain sectors. While the new wage hike still falls short of the level promised by the Pheu Thai Party in […]

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VAT Imposed on Imported Goods in Thailand in 2024

From May 2024 onwards, the Thai government plans to introduce a 7% value-added tax (VAT) on all imported goods valued at one baht or more, regardless of their origin. However, imported goods priced below 1,500 THB per parcel will be exempted from this tax initiative to alleviate the burden on smaller transactions. Protecting local businesses […]

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Thailand Introduces Same-Sex Marriage Bill

In the months since Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin promised the “marriage equality bill” following his administration’s rise to power in September 2023, the draft amendment allowing for recognition of same-sex marriages has been approved to Thailand’s Civil and Commercial Code (TCCC) by a committee of the House of Representatives and is now expected to go […]

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The Major Differences Between Thai And Western Criminal Law

Nothing is more disappointing than having an unexpected event throwing a wrench into your trip to Thailand. Fortunately, with the right knowledge, you can turn the situation around and make the best out of your time in the Land of Smiles. This is why it is essential to learn the differences between Western and Thai […]

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Appealing for Visa Overstays or Revocation in Thailand

Foreign residents in Thailand must exercise caution when it comes to overstaying their visas, as doing so may result in expulsion from the country. If a visa is revoked for overstaying, there are a few exceptions that allow visitors to extend their stay. In such circumstances, individuals with valid reasons must appeal to the Immigration […]

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Consequences of Being Blacklisted in Thailand

Blacklist Lifting and Re-Entry to Thailand After your name subject to the blacklist is lifted under Section 12 of the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979), you may be able to re-enter Thailand. However, the immigration officer will heavily monitor you due to your history of being blacklisted. If you recommit an offense, you will be […]

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Exclusion from Thailand

Overstaying in Thailand Should you surrender or be arrested by authorities, your name will be on the blacklist and you will be deported and excluded from Thailand. The length of the blacklist depends on the period of overstay. Length of Blacklist After Surrendering Overstaying for more than 90 days will subject you to be excluded […]

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Immigration Detention Center of Thailand

The Immigration Detention Center (IDC) If you overstay or violate Thai immigration laws, you will be detained at the Immigration Detention Center.  Inside the IDC: An Overview The IDC’s facility has a limited space with no privacy, in which inmates are squeezed together in a small cell, taking turns to sleep. Fortunately, there is a […]

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Justifications to Divorce in Thailand

Grounds of Divorce Section 1516 of the Thai Civil and Commercial Code outlines a range of situations that qualify as legitimate grounds for divorce. These encompass:   Adultery: When one spouse engages in extramarital affairs, it serves as grounds for divorce. Misconduct: Instances of misconduct leading to severe shame, animosity, substantial injury, or disrupting cohabitation […]

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