Thailand Law Blog
Cannabis to be Relisted as a Narcotic in Thailand
By the end of 2024, the Thai government intends to relist cannabis as a narcotic. The Decriminalization of Cannabis In 2018, Thailand was the first Asian country to legalize cannabis for medicinal purposes. Later in June 2022, Thailand also became the first Asian country to decriminalize cannabis extracts containing less than 0.2% Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This, […]
Draft Legislation in Thailand for Multinational Enterprises
The Revenue Department has submitted a draft legislation to the Office of Secretariat of the Cabinet that will require all multinational enterprises (MNEs) to pay a set percentage of taxes, if it is passed into law. The purpose of this bill is to prevent a specific kind of tax evasion called “profit shifting,” which involves […]
Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Visa
In May 2024, a new long-term visa option known as the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Visa was approved by the Thai Cabinet. The visa caters to specialists, executives, professionals, and their dependents. The purpose of this visa is to aid the development of targeted industries in Thailand including automation, robotics, aviation, logistics, and biochemicals. What […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
