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Update April 12, 2024

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Thailand Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 24, 2023, thailand - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Thailand. Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider travel to:

• Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla provinces due to  civil unrest associated with ongoing insurgent activities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Thailand.

If you decide to travel to Thailand:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Thailand.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla Provinces – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Periodic violence directed mostly at Thai government interests by a domestic insurgency continues to affect security in the southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla. In Songkhla, the insurgency is most active in the districts of Chana, Thepha, Nathawat, and Saba Yoi. U.S. citizens are at risk of death or injury due to the possibility of indiscriminate attacks in public places.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces as U.S government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these provinces.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Travel Safety

Is Thailand Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Thailand has long been the classic backpacker destination. For years now, travelers of all sorts have traveled their way around this mystifying country and it’s honestly not hard to see why: stunning beaches, tropical islands, incredible food, fun cities. It’s a paradise.

But there’s often trouble in paradise. We hear about scams as the country gets more popular with regular tourists and even instances of violence. You may be wondering,  “Ok, so is Thailand safe?”  – and we don’t blame you.

In this guide, we’ll be covering pretty much every safety question that could come to your find. From food to renting a bike and even solo-travel.

So if you’re concerned about staying safe on your Thailand holiday, don’t worry – we’ve got your back. Whatever it is, our Thailand travel advice will have you covered.

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Fast Answer: How Safe is Thailand?

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Overall, Thailand is a very safe travel destination for tourists. The country is relatively stable and prosperous and Thai culture is welcoming of visitors. Crime against tourists is relatively rare and visitors to Thailand can pretty much relax and enjoy themselves.

Most travellers who get into trouble in Thailand kind of play some part on their own downfall via misadventure. Drunken driving accidents are not unheard of, and frequenting the wrong neighbourhoods in search of “forbidden pleasures’ can go awry.

That said, tropical disease is a concern and most travellers will at the least find themselves visiting the toilet more frequently than they may do at home. Scams are also pretty commonplace although often this will simply mean an inflated taxi fare rather than anything outrageously malign.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Thailand Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Thailand. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, and practice common sense, you will have a safe trip to Thailand.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

Safety In Thailand – An Overview

Thailand is backpacker central and the most visited country in Southeast Asia. But that doesn’t mean it comes without issues. There’s drug trafficking, there’s terrorism, there’s petty theft and tourist scams (like everywhere), unpredictable protests, and a militant government in power on top of that.

That’s not all – there are diseases like Zika virus, tropical nature to contend with (say hi to the odd snake), and severe weather. Not to mention the horrible bike accidents. There’s a whole lot of stuff that could go wrong, and staying safe in Thailand could be more serious than you thought.

All of that may sound scary but, at the end of the day, most trips to Thailand go swimmingly. By many standards, Thailand is pretty safe for tourists. Tourism contributes a HUGE deal to the Thai economy and the government pretty much has your back.

Let’s get into the facts of Thailand’s safety…

Thailand is basically the jewel in the crown of Southeast Asian tourism . 6% of its economy is made up of tourism, making it a major contribution to keeping this country going. There are many awesome areas to stay in Thailand , with each place ranking differently on the safety scale.

That being said, more tourism brings unique dangers – not exactly “dangers” but things to be wary of. These come in the form of scams: tailoring, tours, gems. Scams are the most reported crimes in Thailand.

Take our travel advice: keeping your wits about you and not accepting things from strangers is pretty much a good rule of thumb.

We’re going to dive deeper into that in just a moment.

When choosing where you’ll be staying in Thailand, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, we’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Thailand below.

Chaing Mai is a fairly large city in Northern Thailand. Both a tourist destination as well as a fantastic choice for people looking to base themselves in Thailand, it’s got something for everybody! You can spend a whole day wandering from temple to temple, being dazzled by all the gold, stones, statues, and artwork. There are also heaps of co-working spaces, cool cafes, and an accessible infrastructure making it a solid destination for digital nomads.

Chiang Mai is not as busy and hectic as other cities in Thailand which makes it one of the safest places to visit. In fact, there’s a pretty large expat community here that you can easily connect with. Thanks to its location in the mountainous part of the country, the city offers authentic culture, stunning nature and great city life. 

The only threat you’ll have to face when visiting pai is getting stuck here because it’s just too beautiful and laid-back. Many travellers end up visiting Pai multiple times during their travels in Thailand because this place is truly special! It has that wonderful, magical, sticky quality that so many traveler hubs do: the one that sends the itineraries of backpackers in Thailand out the window.

Pai is a small mountain village in the North of Thailand. While you might not get white-sand beaches, you can enjoy incredible nature, breathtaking views and an atmosphere that feels almost timeless.  There’s caves, waterfalls, hot springs, and everything in between waiting for you to explore. There’s also a great yoga scene there, if you’re looking to nama-stay in Pai!

Koh Samui is packed with things to do! How does stand up paddle-boarding at sunset sound? How about swimming in the Namuang Waterfall? Or hiking around the untouched jungle? You can also do an ATV Tour around the island if you’re not in the mood to trek through the jungles on foot! Koh Samui won’t disappoint your adrenaline needs!

It’s a unique place with a surprisingly good infrastructure. On top of that, you get everything from trekking through the jungle to relax on secluded beaches. Koh Samui is perfect for swimming as it has warm, calm waters. It is also a great place to try scuba diving or to get scuba certified, for those who are keen on exploring the underwater world!

Places to avoid in Thailand

Unfortunately, not all places in Thailand are safe. You need to be careful and aware of your surroundings pretty much anywhere you go in the world, and the same goes for visiting Thailand.

According to the government, there are four regions that should be avoided since they have relatively high crime rates, including violent crimes: 

They’re located in the South of Thailand. Another place you should avoid is Sungai Kolok, the crossing in Malaysia. Any border regions should be travelled to with a bit more caution, simply because there might be tension or more military presence. However, tourists usually don’t end up there anyway as there’s hardly anything to see. 

Of course, staying away from dark side streets and walking around secluded areas at night is a no-brainer. Use your common sense here – if something feels off or lets your alarm bells ring, avoid it! 

It’s important to know that Thailand is not the safest country, so a bit of caution and research before you start your travels will always go a long way. If you want to increase your safety during your stay, read on for our insider Thailand travel tips . Stick to those and you won’t have a single issue in Thailand.

Thailand Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

It may be generally safe to travel around Thailand, but there’s no end to how careful you can actually be. To make sure you really do travel as safe as possible , here’s a list of our travel advice for staying safe in Thailand.

• Make sure your vaccines are checked and up-to-date   –  seems simple, but boy would you save yourself a BIG headache (literally)!
• Don’t drink tap water – this rule pretty much goes for every Asian country.
• Don’t hop on any old moped  – make sure you’re renting off someone with good reviews or you could end up in a bad way.
• Pack right for Thailand – never forget about the essentials!
• DON’T insult the Thai king or royal family  – lèse-majesté laws mean it’s literally illegal. You can serve prison time.
• Don’t buy Buddha images – you’ll need a special license to ‘export’ them.
• Have copies of important docs copied – you don’t need to carry them around, but in case you lose something it helps.
• Watch your back at the Full Moon Parties – ok it’s a time for fun, but getting completely senseless can lead to BAD situations.
• Be wary about taking drinks from strangers  – many date rapes occur this way, especially on the Thai islands.
• Know where you’re going when you get in a taxi  – Bangkok taxi drivers are notoriously poor.
• Carry a small amount of cash when you go out – if something happens it’s a small loss. Opt for getting your hands on a moneybelt to keep your cash safe!
• Be aware of air pollution if you’ve got asthma – check air quality in Chiang Mai or Bangkok, mainly in March/April.
• Definitely, don’t get involved in protests – don’t even get CLOSE; you could get injured, arrested, deported, or worse.
• We’d recommend that you don’t feed monkeys – they may seem cute (to some) but they’re vicious and greedy!
• Be aware of riptides, especially in monsoon season  – the tropical seas look beautiful, but they can be seriously deadly.
• Be careful of what you share online – sharing articles that portray Thailand negatively can get you arrested (for example, BBC articles that ‘defame’ the royal family are blocked).
• Watch your bags if you’re on a tuk-tuk or motorbike  – people can and do swoop by and snatch ’em right away.
• Wear a helmet when you ride a motorbike – a) it’s a legal requirement, and b) it could save your life.
• Don’t give your passport as insurance/guarantee  – if you end up magically breaking whatever it is you’re renting, how will you get it back?
• Know your (drink) limits  – those buckets are STRONG. Be sensible.
• Be aware of the sex trade  – even if you’re tempted, we’d recommend not. Human trafficking is a real issue in Thailand and you never know WHO or WHAT you’re really funding…
• Only use OFFICIAL borders  – crossing over into Burma, Cambodia, Laos, or Malaysia unofficially is not only illegal, it’s also extremely dangerous – there are still unexploded ordinances here from old conflicts.
• Don’t ride the elephants  – a) it could be dangerous (people have died) and b) those ellies are most likely abused.

If you follow our safety tips, you’ll get to properly enjoy the wonder that is Thailand. At the end of the day, it’s all about being smart as you go about your travels.

If you’re traveling to Thailand by yourself, don’t worry: thousands of others have done it before you. It’s totally doable!

Being alone shouldn’t be an overly stressful situation. To help you out, we’ve got a few clever tips to keep in mind to make Thailand safe to travel alone in.

• Meet other travelers. This is crucial to beating the “solo traveling blues” and to finding people to make your time even more memorable. Staying in Thailand’s numerous hostels are a great way to meet backpackers and like-minded travel buddies.
• Thailand has no shortage of tours and this is a two-birds-with-one-stone scenario: you get to experience some amazing culture/nature AND meet people in the process. Start off with a food tour in Bangkok to get the ideas flowing!
• As gratifying as it can be to meet other people, don’t go home with strangers. They could be a lot stranger than you think.
• Let someone close to you know where you are every couple of days – it could make a difference.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Thai people are super friendly and will do what they can to help. From a punctured motorbike tire to simple directions, you’ll be surprised at just how nice people can be.

There are so many incredible places to visit in Thailand  and things to see and experience. It’s so traveler-friendly that you’ll probably end up having the best – and safest – time ever. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be careful!

Thailand may be safe to travel in, overall, but backpacking AND being female comes with its own special warning. Women are often the recipients of “special” attention and are often more appealing targets for would-be criminals. Unfortunate, but true.

We believe that Thailand IS safe for solo female travelers. Just to be on the safe side, here are a few pointers to make sure you stay safe while you’re at it.

• You can opt to stay in female only dorms in hostels. These are not only a nice place to stay (away from potentially creepy guys) but a great opportunity to get to know other female travelers of all types and ages.
• You might want to wear as little as possible since it’s hot in Thailand! But remember this is a Buddhist culture: locals rarely dress like this. Avoid the wrong sort of attention and keep respectful.
• The island of Koh Tao, in particular, seems to suffer from more disappearances and mysterious deaths than usual – if you plan on visiting,  do your research.
• As soon as you arrive at the airport in Thailand, get a sim card . This is a good way to keep in touch with people you meet, to track tuk-tuk and taxi rides, and to check reviews for hostels and guesthouses that you haven’t booked in advance. No-brainer.
• Learn a little bit of Thai. It goes down well, but it is by no means required.
• Keep your wits about you when it comes to other travelers. Make friends but stay away from people who seem weird – they probably are.
• Don’t do drugs. Sorry to be a downer but this puts you at risk and you can literally be jailed if you have them on your person.
• Seems odd but honestly stay away from monks! They’re not allowed to talk with, touch/be touched by or be in the vicinity of females!
• On a night out be confident and act like you know your surroundings. Make sure you keep enough cash with you to get you back to your hostel safely.

On the whole, Thailand is the ideal place for solo female travelers. There’s less harassment than many other destinations – even than in Europe – people are super friendly, the hostels are amazing, transportation is easy, and there are loads of other backpackers to meet. What’s not to like?

One of the sad realities of travel is that tourists everywhere are magnets for scammers and professional con-men (OK 2022 you win, con-persons) . Thailand is well known for scammers targeting foreigners with schemes ranging from the annoying, to the terrifying. Lets take a look at some of Thailands favourite scams;

The Damaged Boat Scam – If you rent a boat, check it carefully for cracks and dents. It is not uncommon for owners to point to old damage claiming you have damaged it, and have to pay. The same goes for rental bikes.

Tour Booking Scam – Some tour agencies will take your money for a tour and then try jack up the price, ie, when you get to the national park or museum they claim your admission was not included the tour price.

Fake Romance Scam – Thailand is a notorious destination for lonely western men seeking love in all of its forms and this is all too often exploited. If you find yourself a local Thai beau, good for you but please be very wary as to how genuine the relationship is espeially when (not if but when) they start asking you for money.

Fake Jewels Scam – If you are not an expert on jewels and gemstones, simply stay out of the market. It is very common for Thai dealers to flog crappy stones or even glass to unsuspecting tourists claiming that they are valuable wares.

Note that there are way too many scams to list them all here so just be very thorough and careful in all financial dealings and beware of overtly friendly strangers. That said, the chances of been targeted by a scam are significantly lower once you get OUT of tourist hubs.

We’ve covered the main safety concerns already, but there are a few more things to know. Read on for more detailed information on how to have a safe trip to Thailand.

Is it safe to travel to Thailand for families?

Previously a backpacker-only zone for some reason, Thailand is now visited by all kinds of people! The country’s infrastructure and tourism industry have completely boomed in recent years and now, more than ever, everyone is traveling to Thailand. Over 20 million if we’re talking in numbers!

If you’re thinking of taking the plunge with your family and experiencing something incredible together, then don’t worry: Thailand is totally safe to travel for families.

Thailand is a top-recommended place to go with families. Thai people absolutely love children and you’ll get a lot of good, positive attention. Besides, there are so many amazing destinations to visit with your children.

If you’re worried about your children being exposed to debaucherous backpacker bars and to Khaosan Road (etc. etc.) then just stay away from areas. There are plenty of child-friendly places in Bangkok and the rest of the country.

Is it safe to drive in Thailand?

Self-driving is a common way of getting around in Thailand. In fact, it’s almost odd if you backpack in Thailand and you don’t end up renting a scooter at some point. But it doesn’t come without its risks. Far from it, actually…

73% of all road deaths in Thailand are whilst riding two-or-three-wheeled vehicles.

So if you’re thinking of renting your own scooter, be careful. Since it’s such a motorbike friendly country and so dangerous for motorbikes at the same time, we’re giving you a few tips on how to avoid becoming a statistic.

• Go with a very well recommended rental company – why risk bad bikes and bad service?
• Take pictures of the bikes before you head out – you’ll want to be able to prove you didn’t do the damage.
• Wear a helmet (your passenger, too!) – if the worst does happen you’ll want to protect your noggin’.
• Get on/off the left side of the bike – getting off the right side is a good way to get your leg burnt on the exhaust!
• Don’t drink and drive, don’t drug and drive – why would you?
• Let other drivers see what you’re doing – your intentions will help them not hit you.
• Don’t be afraid to use the horn – it may be rude in your home country, but it’s just a friendly “here I am!” in Thailand.
• If you don’t feel 100% confident, just don’t ride- not feeling confident leads to errors of judgment, which is plain dangerous.

You can hire a proper car if you want to avoid bikes altogether. Do your research first, obviously; you’ll need to be over 21 years old and in possession of an international drivers license to do so. These are a good idea for multi-person road trips. Always keep an eye out for those motorbikes – these can come out of nowhere.

Riding your motorbike in Thailand

Driving around on your scooter in the sun sounds like a pretty fun, right? Thailand is known for the streets being filled up with motorbikes and cars, so it can be a bit overwhelming for tourists. But does that mean it’s not safe to ride your bike in Thailand?

As we mentioned above, Thailand is in the top 5 of the “most dangerous countries to drive”. However, since motorbikes are the easiest and fastest way to get around, we still recommend renting one at some point. But only if you  follow the rules .

Thai people aren’t bad drivers, in fact, they’re masters at staying calm in sketchy situations, especially on the road. To tourists, the streets are chaotic and hectic. If you want to get used to the traffic, you can have a sneak peek on the back of a Grab.

Grab is pretty much like the Asian Uber. Book the driver over the App, and you’ll be able to experience how it’s like to ride a bike in Thailand without being in charge.

When you’re ready to drive on your own, find a trustworthy rental place. You shouldn’t be paying more than 3500 Baht per month, and the scooter should be in good condition (check the brakes!).

The last travel advice: Be aware of your speed, always wear your helmet and don’t be the typical tourist that watches the view more than the actual road – if you want to admire the country, do it on the back of a Grab!

Is Uber safe in Thailand?

Uber has merged with rival Grab in Thailand. But it’s the same amazing service. Uber is very safe in Thailand. You won’t be overcharged, you’ll be able to track your journey, and the drivers are pretty competent.

All you’ll need to do is create a Grab account. Simple as that.

Are taxis safe in Thailand?

Taxis are generally safe in Thailand but sometimes you will be astounded at how bad they are – especially when staying in Bangkok .

Some drivers have absolutely no clue where they are going either. (Have a GPS app ready for this as you may have to become a literal navigator.)

The biggest ‘safety’ issue is probably taxi drivers trying to rip you off. It’s not exactly about haggling, they won’t budge; it’s more about just knowing your destination and how much the fare should be, and then asking till you actually find a taxi driver offering a fair price.

The language barrier can be a little hazardous. Ever tried pronouncing  any Thai? What about place names? If not, a good tip is to have a card from your hotel with the address in Thai script for the driver. They’ll understand that and get you back to your place safely.

Then there are motorbike taxis and samlors. These are more common in less urban areas where car taxis are less frequent. They’re good (and fun) if you’re solo traveling in Thailand . Samlors have sidecars, motorbike taxis don’t. The licensed drivers wear orange vests.

Whatever you do, be respectful, considerate and appropriate. Any concerns? We recommend taking a picture of the drivers’ license inside the taxi. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut.

Is public transportation in Thailand safe?

When it comes to public transportation in Thailand, you’re going to have a lot of options – especially when visiting Bangkok . Here you can basically take your pick of the bus, the BTS (Skytrain) or the MRT (metro).

The best thing of all:  public transportation in Thailand is safe, absolutely. As a bonus, it’s super cheap too! You won’t even have to worry about overheating since they’re mercifully air-conditioned.

About the only danger that you’ll have to worry about on either the MRT or BTS is getting lost. The city buses, in particular, are often crowded and it’s not easy to understand the routes. That’s about the only risk.

How could we not mention tuk-tuks? They take you here, there and everywhere! You’ll find them in Bangkok and all over Thailand. The whole country boasts more than 35,000 of these. Some drivers may be oddballs but tuk-tuks are generally safe.

Although it seems a bit sketchy, we’d definitely recommend riding a Tuk-Tuk at least once. It’s a crazy experience, especially during rush hour, but it’s absolutely worth it!

Normal buses don’t have air-con. They pick up and drop off people at seemingly random points. They’re cheaper than the VIP buses but they’re also decidedly less about quality and service.

The VIP buses feature aircon, a trustworthy route and they can be booked through your accommodation. They normally offer water too.

Buses often include ferry services as well! This is the only way to get around the Thai islands and booking a combination ticket for a ferry and a bus is a completely stress-free experience.

If you visit Thailand in summer , busses can get hot.

The trains in Thailand are next level and perfect to get around the whole country. The popular backpacking night train that runs between Chiang Mai in the north and Bangkok in the south was a raucous experience – until there was an alcohol ban instated in 2014.

The trains come in three classes – all are clean, only one is very, very comfortable; the other two are varying degrees of bearable. And if you feel like it, or it’s on your itinerary, you can get a sleeper train from Bangkok to Penang in Malaysia. Second class sleeper services feature privacy curtains. You’ll have a blast no matter how you get around the country!

Is the food in Thailand safe?

There’s a huge variety of delicious food on offer, from the  farang favorite of  pad thai to the Thai favorite of  pad kha pao. There’s Burmese style cuisine of the north, the Laos-Thai style of the Isan region, and even Chinese dishes added into the mix.

And generally speaking, the food in Thailand is safe. Food poisoning can happen, but there are tricks to avoid it.

• If it’s busy – especially with locals – not only will the food be good, it’s less likely to have sanitation issues.
• You must try the street food in Thailand! It’s cheap and incredible and there are stalls everywhere. We recommend eating somewhere where you can literally see the food being cooked before your very eyes – germs hate being fried.
• Does it look clean? If it looks clean, go for it. If it looks grimy, even if it’s popular, there’s always a distinct possibility of catching something.
• Fruit is good. Fruit can also be very bad since it’s not cooked. Ask for it to be peeled or else peel it yourself before you eat it.
• A simple way to avoid any food-related illness is simply to  wash your hands!  The issue may not be a part of establishments’ sanitation, but it must be a part of your own!
• Traveling with an allergy? Research ahead of time how to explain your allergy. Keep in mind that store owners and restaurant staff might not know all the foods that contain allergens, so it’s helpful to know the names of some of these too. If you’re gluten-free, pick up a handy Gluten-Free Translation Card with descriptions of Celiac disease, cross-contamination risk, and local Thai ingredients in Thai.

At the end of the day, food in Thailand is fine to eat. Thai people love their food and eating out is a perfect way to soak up local life. The food is usually cooked FAST and from fresh ingredients. Don’t be afraid to go outside your comfort zone and try something new.

Can you drink the water in Thailand?

This is a clear no, and a general rule for pretty much all Asian countries. Stick with water from the convenience store and you’ll be absolutely fine.

Plastic waste is an issue all over the world, so if your accommodation has a water filter use a refillable bottle and refill whenever you’re thirsty.

Trust us: Thailand is hot so you’ll need to be keeping hydrated, especially if you’re doing any sort of outdoor activity. Seriously, don’t be a rookie and forget your water bottle.

Is it safe to live in Thailand?

Do you dream of living in the chilled out nature of Thailand but are worried about how safe Bangkok is to live? Or anywhere in the veritable paradise of Thailand for that matter?

Nowadays it’s more common for young professionals to relocate to Thailand. The cheap living , friendly people and stunning natural landscapes make it a haven for digital nomads, for instance.

It feels genuinely safe. There are low violent crime rates – e.g. theft and murder – meaning you’ll never really feel unsafe.

Thailand is a popular place to teach English and there are a huge amount of TEFL teachers flocking to Thailand each year. Most big cities have an ex-pat community and you’ll make friends easily.

The issues that make Thailand feel unsafe to live in are relatively few but they can be biggies. Political corruption can make it feel like you’re living in a lawless land, there’s the risk of terrorist attacks due to the ongoing trouble in the southern provinces, and then there’s an ever-present threat of national unrest, which can lead to (sometimes violent) protests, riots, and clashes between opposing political factions.

Sexual assault and exploitation is also a real issue. There are a few places that are more dangerous than others. Avoid living in or visiting the southern provinces and walking through sketchy areas that could be as sketchy as anywhere in your own country.

Outside of all the issues, Thailand is a wholesome, safe place to live with a healthy expat community to get involved with. Many people that choose to live in Thailand end up living there for a long time. We’re into it!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Is it safe to rent an Airbnb in Thailand?

Renting an Airbnb in Thailand is a great idea. And it’s perfectly safe, as long as you read the reviews. Staying at an Airbnb during your trip will also open up new possibilities and options to experience the country. The local hosts are known to take great care of their guests and give the absolute best recommendations of what to do and what to see. Local knowledge always goes a long way, so be sure to reach out to your hosts if you’re unsure about how to fill up your Thailand itinerary!

On top of that, you’ll stay safe with the reliable Airbnb booking system. Both hosts and guests can rate each other which creates a very respectful and trustworthy interaction. 

Is Thailand LGBTQ+ friendly?

Thailand and pretty much all major travel destinations within the country are very welcoming and accepting of LGBTQ+ travellers. There is a massive gay scene in Bangkok and Phuket that attracts plenty of visitors each year. In fact, Bangkok ranks as one of the gay-friendliest cities in the world. 

Thailand is super tolerant and open-minded. While you might get funny looks outside of tourist’s hotspots or if you go more towards the rural side, you won’t have to worry about your safety when staying in bigger cities. At least not about discrimination…

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Thailand.

Is Thailand dangerous for tourists?

Thailand can be very safe, depending on how much effort you put into your own safety. If you go looking for trouble, you’ll definitely find it. If you keep your wits about you, use your street smarts and common sense, you’ll most likely have a trouble-free trip.

What should I avoid in Thailand?

Avoid these things to stay safe in Thailand: – Don’t drink tap water – Don’t hop on any old moped – DON’T insult the Thai king or royal family – Don’t buy Buddha images

What are the main safety issues in Thailand?

Thailand has a problem with scams, road safety and pickpocketing. All of these crimes affect tourists the most, however, you can definitely protect yourself from them by using your street smarts and common sense.

Is Thailand safe for female solo travellers?

Female solo travellers have to be a bit more careful when visiting Thailand. Staying away from over-friendly locals or sketchy characters, booking yourself into a female-friendly accommodation and watching your drink on a night out will keep you more than safe.

Yes, Thailand can be very safe, especially if you keep your wits about you and plan ahead.

Thailand is the most popular country in Southeast Asia and it’s honestly no wonder. A depth of culture, history, mental street food, very nice people, religion, and stunning tropical islands make it a good fit for just about everyone. If that wasn’t enough, all of this comes with the bonus of being both very affordable and very safe.

Of course, like anywhere in the world, bad things can happen. By being sensible, trusting your gut, and not getting into silly situations, you can avoid stuff like this and stay safe in Thailand.

With our insider guide, you’ll now have a bumper crop of travel advice designed exactly for staying safe while you backpacking the heck out of Thailand. You’ll spend less time worrying about what COULD happen and more time enjoying the shit out of yourself.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Clair Cathryn

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How can you write this article when overwhelming evidence is of the contrary , you should be ashamed Research deaths of : Nick Pearson, Hannah Witheridge and David Miller , Elise Dallemange , Luke Miller , Christina Annesley , Nick Pearson , Valentina Novozhyonov , Dimitri Povse , that’s just the tip of the iceberg

Not to mention it has the highest number of road accidents of any country in the World . Data recorded from January 1 – February 15, 2023, reveals that 2,099 people in total died in road accidents in Thailand in the first 6 weeks, Of those, 75 were foreigners. Statistics show that 106,133 were injured in road accidents so far this year, 2,886 of which were foreigners. If you don’t believe me , do some research on the amount of deaths on the road and the amount of suspicious ‘suicides’ where not just women are found dead but males have been found at the bottom of swimming pools , mysteriously fall from balconies etc , the list is endless. Solo travelling females are dying at an alarming rate , with the official cause of death ruled ‘accidental’ or ‘suicide’ ? when MURDER was a more accurate cause . The country is run by the Military . The country has widespread corruption where bars and clubs are run by local organized crime gangs and protected by the even more dangerous Police force. Murders are covered up and swept under the carpet to save face and protect the tourist industry. The Police mishandle investigations and cover up crime . Western women are thought of as prostitutes because of Western dress codes. The culture in Thailand is like that of Middle Eastern countries , where if a female dresses like she would at home , as in a bikini , they are thought of as easy , promiscuous and deserving of rape . Get intoxicated and argue about say , tipping , you are very likely to bear the wrath of revenge and might not make it back your hotel down that dark street. Spiked drinks is rampant and if you get drugged , you are lucky if you just get robbed , let alone raped and hit in the head with a spade. Research deaths of : Nick Pearson, Hannah Witheridge and David Miller , Elise Dallemange , Luke Miller , Christina Annesley , Nick Pearson , Valentina Novozhyonov , Dimitri Povse , that’s just the tip of the iceberg

While there has been some terrible events, mainly concentrated to a few places, we need to keep some perspective. In the 5 years prior to Covid, Thailand received between 30-40 million tourists per year. It’s a lot of people coming through the doors. I agree tho, visitors need to try their best to recognise evolving situations they may find them selves in and respect local mores.

By the way, if you pay attention to the number of premeditated murders and the level of crime in general, you will find that among European countries, crime is higher only in Ukraine and Montenegro. Thus, despite the fact that Thailand seems to be safe, in fact, any country in Europe is much safer than Thailand.

I have never once felt unsafe in Thailand or any South East Asian country for that matter. If you’re wondering if one place is safer than another, you’re really not going to get a true answer out of statistics and numbers.

A more interesting question i believe is to what extent am i to be harassed, hounded, pestered, badgered and scammed as a tourist/traveller in a place?

In Thailand a great extent is the answer. I don’t know what it is but Thailand is the winner of this contest in South East Asia and by a long margin too.

From there it then becomes a trade off. Is this place worth going back to, compared to what else is out there? I’d say if you’ve never been to Thailand, do go. But for me i can’t see any reason to go back, as opposed to other places in South East Asia.

Its kind of a trade off, its actually quite easy to get off the tourist trail in Thailand, its a totally different experience to the one you describe but it won’t be as comfortable or as easy as the touristy places, even with the hounding.

While females shouldn’t touch monks, you certainly can speak with them. Many even have cell phones and I have more monk Facebook friends than I imagined I ever would!

Thailand is the leader in the number of motorcyclists who die on the roads. The death toll is about 24 for every 100,000 population. By comparison, England has only 0.6 deaths per 100,000 population. Perhaps there are not that many motorcyclists in England. Nevertheless, I compared these figures with Indonesia, which is the leader in the number of motorcycles in the world. And you know, even in Indonesia the number of motorcyclists killed on the roads is 5-6 times lower than in Thailand.

You will not find a motorbike rental for 500 bt a month, don’t know where you got that price. I have lived in Thailand for 17 years and my Thai wife rents motorbikes, normal fee is 100 to 150bt per day, 1,000bt per week and 3,000bt per month, you can try to bargain, but you will never find a motorbike for 500bt per month. But you will have a great time in The Land of Smiles, such friendly and helpful people.

Big Red — the odd accident in Bangkok?

Thailand has one of the worst death rates in the world, around 5000 motorcyclists die each year on the roads, many in Bangkok.

l`ve spent in total around 8 months in BK ans 6 weeks in Pattaya and love Thailand and its people but the facts are grim !

This is a short list;

Reduce Bangkok’s motorcycle death toll by 82% – add dedicated … thethaiger.com/news/bangkok/reduce-bangkoks… In Bangkok about three quarters of deaths involved motorcycles and motorcyclists and noted that there were 3 million motorbikes on the road around Bangkok. His think-tank at the Engineering Institute of Thailand is proposing motorcycle lanes on major roads as part of a coordinated approach to improve road design and reduce the risk to riders on the city’s roads – a key problem in Thailand. Killer roads: Why Thailand has one of the worst death rates … news.sky.com/story/killer-roads-why-thailand-has… 74% of all Thai road deaths are drivers of two- or three-wheeled vehicles according to WHO’s 2018 report on global road safety. Researchers found only 51% of motorcycle drivers wear helmets, just … Death on Two Wheels: Thailand most lethal nation for … coconuts.co/bangkok/news/death-two-wheels… Almost three quarters of road deaths in Thailand involve motorcycles. Last month, a survey from the World Health Organization (WHO) said that 5,500 motorcycle riders die each year in the country. That equates to almost 15 deaths daily and the number is getting higher, not lower. The shocking statistic makes Thailand the most deadly country in which to get around on two motorized wheels. Motorbike accident deaths: Thailand number one in the world … http://www.samuitimes.com/motorbike-accident-deaths.. . Experts at a conference promoting a motorcycle safety campaign have said that Thailand is number one in motorcycle deaths. On average 5,500 motorcyclists die annually in Thailand and the figures are just going up and up despite measures to try and stop the increase. And the problem is particularly bad among the nation’s youth, reported Manager. Some 2,500 […] Big bike rider decapitated in horror crash in Bangkok | The … thethaiger.com/hot-news/road-deaths/big-bike… At least 6 deaths in Bangkok suspected to be caused by new illicit drug cocktail Thailand’s roads second-deadliest in world, UN agency finds … http://www.bangkokpost.com/learning/work/738124/.. . According to official statistics, 14,059 people were killed on Thai roads and highways in 2012, translating to a road-death rate of 36.2 people per 100,000, a rate only surpassed by war-torn Libya …

Thanks for sharing this. Bangkok’s roads are indeed dangerous and we believe the writer of this post did capture that.

Drive safely!

I’ve lived in Bangkok 4 years and rode a motorbike the whole time .. about 5000km I’m bkk traffic.

At first glance it seems like a free for all. But there is actually order on these seemingly chaotic roads. I find drivers to be more aware of cyclists and motorbikers than in Canada, and other than the odd incident it has been much more pleasant than in Vancouver.

Cars and traffic tend to actually driver slower than I’m used to.. and the cars are smaller too..

The lanes are wider to accomodate motorbikes, much larger than Vancouver …

I’m not saying for a tourist to just jump on a bike in Bangkok .. but on islands or tourist destination scooter rentals are safe.. just have a lisence and drive slow and carefully. Don’t be one of those asshole farang like in Pattaya. Remember.. don’t use front brakes anywhere near the beach.. only rear..

Road trips with a rental car can be fun.. but know that the farther from bkk the crazier the driving gets.. watch out for people overtaking in blind corners … Seriously.. they do that. Watch out..

Most of all.. watch out for minivans and those tuned up diesel Toyota trucks with giant cages overloaded with durian or something .. they drive like psychos .. seriously these two types are most dangerous

Watch your bags if you’re on a tuk-tuk or motorbike – people can and do swoop by and snatch ’em right away.

^^This happened to me in Bangkok. The strap of my bag didn’t break, so I went face first into the ground. Lost 2 of my teeth, damaged my lips and had some cuts and scrapes on my face. There was a car driving behind me right after it happened, and luckily they slammed on the brakes and didn’t hit me. I don’t know if I will ever go back to Thailand, and certainly will never go to Bangkok. On the plus side the staff at the hostel and hospital were all very kind to me.

Very well written, informative and comprehensive article !! Thailand is an amazing country with amazing people and very safe to travel in. l took a taxi on a 100 mile journey on my own when l was 70, l am now 72, and never once felt unsafe. The people there are also very honest, on a table in the restaurant area of the Luis hospital, a woman left her handbag on the table and me, being from the uk, was worried someone might just walk off with it, l watched out for 15 minutes, then she returned, the bag lying just as she had left it. l honestly doubt that would have happened here.

Thailand is very safe. If you’re visiting Bangkok or Pattaya at the moment it would be wise to add an N95 mask to your list though.

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17 things you need to know before visiting Thailand

Oct 28, 2023 • 7 min read

Thailand is one of the easiest places to travel in Asia, but there are some top tips that first-time visitors should know © Witthaya Prasongsin / Getty Images

Thailand has a deserved reputation as one of the easiest places to travel in Asia. There’s an amazing amount to see , hassles are limited, English-language signs and menus are commonplace, and you can get around easily at almost any time of day or night. 

However, there are a few things every traveler should know. Here are our top tips for making the most of your trip. 

1. Rainy season varies depending on where you are

The June to October rainy season brings heavy showers and regular storms to northern, central and southwestern Thailand, creating dangerous conditions for travel by sea. The southeast coast and the Gulf of Thailand get soaked slightly later, from October to December. 

Rainy-season travel means lower prices and smaller crowds, but some accommodations close and many island ferries stop running, including services to the Tarutao archipelago . If this is when you decide to visit, you'll definitely want to pack some kind of wet weather gear.

2. Check for recommended vaccinations

You’ve probably already been jabbed for COVID-19, but most doctors also recommend vaccination against tetanus and hepatitis A. Also consider a rabies shot – dogs, cats and monkeys can all carry the viral disease. Malaria is present along the borders with Laos , Cambodia , Myanmar and Malaysia . If you visit these regions, use anti-malarial prophylaxis such as atovaquone/proguanil or doxycycline. 

3. Sensible travelers to Thailand book ahead

If you have your heart set on a particular boat journey, train trip, trek, tour or boutique stay, book ahead for the busy tourist season from November to March or during any religious holiday. During the rainy season, call or email ahead to check if places are open.

4. Follow local etiquette when meeting Thai people

When meeting locals in Thailand, the standard greeting is the wai – a respectful dip of the head with the hands held palms together in front of the chest. Don’t shake hands unless the other person initiates the handshake. If you get invited into a Thai home, remove your shoes before you enter and avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards another person. 

5. Be respectful of Buddhism, a part of everyday life in Thailand 

Some 95% of Thais are Buddhist, and the national religion weaves through every aspect of life. To show proper respect, remove footwear before entering any Buddhist structure, and wear clothing that covers the shoulders, upper arms and upper legs. 

Never point the soles of your feet towards any Buddhist image (or monk), and don’t touch Buddha statues on the head. Give way to monks when walking on footpaths, and don’t sit next to them on public transport. It is also taboo for a woman to touch a monk or their belongings.

6. Dress modestly

Thai women and men usually avoid revealing outfits that show off a lot of skin. Swimsuits are fine for the beach, but away from the sand, throw on a sarong or fisher's pants, plus something that covers the shoulders if you visit religious sites. Topless or nude sunbathing is frowned upon and can attract unwanted attention.

7. Show respect for the king and royal family

The Thais take respect for the monarchy extremely seriously, and lèse-majesté (maligning the royal family) is a criminal offense. Never show disrespect towards the monarch or depictions of the royal family (including on money). 

8. Know what to expect at the dining table

When dining out in Thailand, everything tends to arrive on the table at the same time, usually placed in the middle of the table for everyone to share. Thailand abandoned chopsticks in the 19th century. You’ll get a spoon and fork but no knife – but most dishes come as bite-sized morsels, so you won’t need one. Sticky rice is usually bundled up into balls and eaten with the fingers. 

9. Vegetarian is a relative term in Thailand 

Fish sauce, oyster sauce and egg are widely used as cooking ingredients in Thailand. The safest bet for people who don't eat fish or meat is to seek out Indian-owned vegetarian restaurants, or restaurants serving kin jay Buddhist cuisine. If in doubt, ask the person making the food if it is jay  – the term ​​ mang sa wirat just means food that doesn’t contain pieces of meat or fish but doesn't mean it's necessarily suitable for vegetarians. 

10. Health risks include stomach bugs, mosquito bites and rabies

The most common trouble travelers face in Thailand is trip-spoiling stomach bugs. Never drink tap water, wash your hands before eating, stick to busy eating establishments and be cautious of ice, unwashed or unpeeled fruit and uncooked vegetables. If you become unwell, seek out private hospitals in larger cities rather than public hospitals.

Mosquito bites can easily become infected in Thailand’s tropical climate. Bring mosquito repellent, and use mosquito nets (or bring your own). Rabies is another risk – always seek medical attention if you are bitten by a dog, cat or monkey. 

11. Smart travelers steer clear of drugs in Thailand 

In June 2022,  marijuana and hemp were removed from the Category 5 narcotics list in Thailand. However, there are still restrictions and smoking marijuana in public is not recommended.

Crossing borders with Class A drugs carries the death penalty, and even the possession of small quantities can bring a hefty prison sentence – it’s really not worth the risk. Also note that smoking in public can attract heavy fines. If you take any prescription medicines, check that these are allowed into Thailand before you travel. 

12. Prices may well be inflated for tourists

In general, Thailand is hassle-free, but tourists are often charged inflated prices for tuk-tuks and unmetered taxi rides – ask a local how much journeys should cost and use that as a yardstick for a fair fare. 

Major tourist sites are popular stalking grounds for cab drivers and touts who will try to steer you towards dubious souvenir shops, fake "tourist offices" and second-rate places to stay, where you’ll inevitably pay more to cover their commission. Book transport directly with the operators to avoid dodgy deals from unscrupulous travel agents. 

13. You may be approached by sex workers

Thailand’s sex industry may find you whether you want it to or not. Single male travelers (and even couples) can expect to be approached by sex workers or touts drumming up business, so be ready with a firm refusal. 

Be aware that some bars, restaurants and karaoke venues are fronts for sex work – warning signs include red or pink strip lights, large numbers of skimpily dressed female staff and lots of foreign male customers.

14. Political protests can be tense and are best avoided 

Thailand can have a lot of protests. When tensions flare up between the government and opposition groups, it can lead to blockades, flight cancellations and sometimes violence. Monitor local news sites such as the Nation for information on simmering political troubles, and avoid protests and other potential flash points.

15. Some governments advise against travel in Thailand’s south 

The far south of Thailand, along the Malaysian border, has been wracked by a separatist insurgency since the 1940s. Most foreign governments advise against travel to the districts of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and parts of Songkhla.  

16. Be very cautious when riding a scooter

Thousands of travelers rent a scooter or motorcycle in Thailand, but make sure your home driving license covers you for any vehicle you hire, and carry your passport (or a copy of the ID pages) in case the police ask for it.

Wear a helmet, ride cautiously and make sure the rental comes with liability insurance – every year, hundreds of tourists are injured in motorcycle and scooter accidents in Thailand. Always give way to larger vehicles, and watch out for livestock, potholes and other hazards on the road. 

17. Follow local advice if there's a natural disaster

Thailand is vulnerable to earthquakes and tsunamis, as well as flooding, landslides and cyclones during the rainy season. Heed official advice in the event of a natural disaster, and contact your embassy for up-to-the-minute information on evacuation procedures. 

This article was first published January 2022 and updated October 2023

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Is It Safe in Thailand?

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The jungle-draped, temple-packed Southeast Asian country of Thailand attracts nearly 40 million visitors per year, some eager to embark on the famed Banana Pancake backpacker trail , others in the market for a spiritual awakening or a life-changing bowl of massaman curry. Despite decades of turbulent politics, travelers remain safe in the main tourist hubs of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pai, and the ever-boozy islands. Of course, there are many less-trodden alternatives, too, that are just as safe to visit. Travelers need only to keep an eye out for scams, petty theft, and the inherent risk of driving on Thailand's notoriously chaotic roads.

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 1 Travel Advisory for Thailand, meaning tourists should "exercise normal precautions." Some parts of the country, however, such as the southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla, are under a Level 3 ("reconsider travel") due to "periodic violence directed mostly at Thai government interests." The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to Americans in these areas  .
• The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also issued Level 1 Travel Health Notice for Thailand due to COVID-19. The country's borders remain closed to foreign nationals with few exceptions  .

Is Thailand Dangerous?

For the most part, Thailand is not dangerous. Millions of tourists of all ages and levels of travel experience flood the country year after year to witness its grand waterfalls and ornate temples, mingle with the hill tribes on guided excursions, and feast on pad thai and street food . The people are delightful and the infrastructure in most places is accommodating to tourists. However, there are some scams to be aware of. According to the U.S. Embassy and Consulate, common scams include tuk-tuk and bus "sightseeing tours," scooter rental scams (claiming the rental has been damaged and demanding more money upon its return), and the "wrong change" scam  . Educate yourself on the common scams and be familiar with the exchange rates before you go.

A greater concern is the danger of driving in Thailand. A 2018 World Health Organization (WHO) report showed that nearly 23,000 people die in traffic accidents every year in this country  . That's more than two people per hour. And the ease of renting motorbikes with zero experience puts travelers at a high risk. Always learn to ride a motorbike properly before attempting to drive one and be extremely wary of riding on the back of someone else's. Vet companies well before booking bus trips because there are many safety concerns there, too.

Most travelers should get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and typhoid before going to Thailand. Many will also want to take prescription malaria medication before, during, and after their trip. Dengue fever , another mosquito-borne infection, is an epidemic in all urban and rural areas, so cover up as much as possible to avoid bites.

Is Thailand Safe for Solo Travelers?

Thailand is perfectly safe for solo travel . Even when you're by yourself, you'll never be too far from other travelers. Hostels are great opportunities to socialize and there are more than a thousand of them squeezed into this country, smaller than the state of Texas. Traveling solo, you'll still be faced with the same risk as any group—you're no more likely to catch malaria or get into a motorbike accident when by yourself, but you may be more prone to scamming and pickpocketing, so be extra careful. If you do go off the beaten tourist path in Thailand, do so with a group or a licensed guide.

Is Thailand Safe for Female Travelers?

Likewise, women are no more likely to catch a mosquito-born illness or get into a motorbike accident than men in Thailand. And even though sexual assault is common—a reported one in five Thais have experienced it—tourists are not the primary target of male attention. Female travelers are more likely to be hit on or harassed by fellow travelers than locals, so be extra vigilant on nights out.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Thailand has a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, especially in Bangkok , where much of the nightlife centers around Thai trans women. The urban areas are more accepting than rural areas when it comes to homosexuality, but for the most part, Thais are exceedingly welcoming and accepting. The one major safety concern is that Thailand has one of the highest HIV/AIDS infection rates in the world, so travelers should practice safe sex.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

There have been reports of discrimination on the basis of skin color in Thailand, but racism rarely leads to violence. There is a widespread cultural obsession with light skin here because darker complexions have historically been associated with rural poverty and working in the fields. You'll see skin whitening creams in every drugstore and Caucasian faces on beauty advertisements throughout the country. That being said, BIPOC travelers for the most part remain safe.

Safety Tips for Travelers

• U.S. citizens should register their trips with the Department of State’s STEP program . That way, the local embassy will know you’re in Thailand and you'll receive updates on any growing political concerns.
• Don’t get caught in potentially dangerous situations, like public protests and large gatherings that could turn violent.
• It's a corrupt country and police officers will sometimes get in on the scams by targeting tourists for steep, paid-on-the-spot “fines.” Though it's common, bribery is illegal throughout Thailand.
• All recreational drugs are illegal. Despite easy availability in some places, getting caught could result in steep fines and jail time. A handful of tourists overdose each year during the popular Full Moon Parties (and other parties) held on the island of Koh Phangan.
• As with anywhere in the world, drink druggings are a problem here, perpetuated by the bucket drinks frequently served on the islands. Cocktails mixed in plastic buckets are often shared, giving people the opportunity to drug multiple people at once. In nightlife-oriented places such as Haad Rin , buckets can be bought from shacks on the beach and street. Stick to buying drinks from established bars for a little more accountability.
• Smoke and haze are an annual problem in Northern Thailand. Intentionally set fires create choking smoke and pollution. The problem persists from late February until the rainy season beings in May. If you suffer from asthma, check air quality before traveling to Chiang Mai, Pai, and other areas during the “burning season.”
• Some ATMs are fitted with hidden card-skimming devices that capture credentials. Stick to using well-lit ATMs or those attached to bank branches.
• Pickpocketing occurs, particularly in tourist-oriented places such as Khao San Road. Don’t walk around with expensive smartphones or cameras on show. Avoid putting your phone on the table when eating and carry bags across your body instead of on one shoulder. Sometimes thieves on motorbikes will snatch phones or bags then speed away.
• Theft is a real problem on night buses . A sleeping bag liner is a great, lightweight investment for keeping valuables close and inaccessible to others while you're sleeping.

U.S. Department of State. " Thailand Travel Advisory ." November 23, 2020.

U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Thailand. " Common Scams to Avoid ."

World Health Organization. " Global status report on road safety 2018 ." June 17, 2018.

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22 Thailand Safety Tips Every Tourist Should Know

It is safe to travel to Thailand if you are heading to popular tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and other places.

Nevertheless, there are numerous ways how to get in trouble and put yourself in danger if you are not familiar with Thai laws.

In this article, I will share 22 safety tips for traveling in Thailand. Knowing these tips will help you to have a pleasant and safe trip to Thailand. 

1. Keep Your Passport Safe And Don’t Give It To No One

It is never safe to give away your passport, but especially when being in another country.

One of the most popular tourist scams in Thailand is to rent either a broken scooter or a ski jet. Of course, it includes leaving your passport at a rental business. Never do that because you could be held responsible for the damage that was already there and your passport would not be returned until you pay an unreasonable amount of money.

Here are a couple of ideas about how to avoid that scam:

• Better rent a scooter from a hotel or a business that looks credible
• Prepare several photocopies of your passport to use them for a rent of a scooter, jet ski, car, etc.

It always feels safer to rent a scooter from a hotel. At least you know its working hours and the staff speaks English in case you need to call them for any assistance. It might cost you a little bit more, but it is worth it.

In small scooter and jet ski rentals, the staff usually don’t speak English. They know basic phrases like naming the price, and that is it. God knows where they keep all the tourist passports.

Note that in Thailand police requires tourists to carry their passports at all times because it is the only document you have that proves both your nationality and your right to be in Thailand. Of course, it is not comfortable and to be honest I rarely carry my real passport with me when in Thailand. It is another situation where photocopies of passport come handy.

Another alternative is to keep your passport in portable safe that folds flat and fits in your luggage.

2. What Is The Emergency Phone Number In Thailand?

The main emergency phone number in Thailand is 191.

Here is a list of all emergency numbers in Thailand that you should know:

• Tourist police – 1155
• Ambulance – 00 66 2011 5222 or 1669 for an immediate nationwide emergency
• Fire department – 199
• Medical emergency – 1669

Hopefully, your trip to Thailand will be safe, and you won’t need any of those numbers.

If you will call for help in case of some injury and no one will pick up the phone you could also try calling to these hospitals in Bangkok:

• Bumrungrad International Hospital – 00 66 2 066 8888
• Samitivej Hospital – 00 66 2 022 0700
• BNH Hospital – also 00 66 2 022 0700

Some of the craziest parties in Thailand happen in Phuket and especially in Patong Beach. With drinking involved accidents happen. Hopefully, you won’t need these numbers, but you should write them down for any case.

• Phuket Police number – 0726 212 046
• Patong Police number – 076 212 046

I also recommend buying a local SIM card when in Thailand. I have an article about all the tourist SIM cards and mobile networks available in Thailand. You can read it HERE .

3. Pedestrian Safety In Thailand

I have to write about Bangkok first. Its traffic is chaotic and dangerous for pedestrians. To walk around Bangkok safely, you have to keep in mind the following things:

• Always look both ways before crossing the street
• Try not to cross the signal-controlled intersection at the very last moment
• Try not to cross the street where there is no pedestrian overpass
• Stay sharp, patient and quick
• Don’t use your mobile phone and headphones when crossing the street

I have an article about alternative ways how to cross the street in Bangkok. Some of them might surprise you. Read the article HERE .

When walking through the streets of Bangkok, I always try to stay focused. Some drivers run the red lights and jump the green lights. Some even manage to drive their scooters on pavements. Be careful at all times when on foot.

Road safety in Thailand in such locations as Phuket and Chiang Mai feels better. The streets are noticeably smaller compared to Bangkok, and there are fewer cars on the road. For me, the Chiang Mai feels the safest city in Thailand regarding road safety.

4. Safest Destinations In Thailand

Visiting popular tourist destinations in Thailand is safe. Such locations as Krabi, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin District, Koh Samui Phang Nga Province are among safest destinations in Thailand.

Deep south close to the Malaysian border is considered the unsafest place in Thailand.

In touristy and crowded areas in Thailand, you should watch out from the pickpockets, scammers etc.

5. Stay Safe From Mosquitoes Bites

The chances of being bit by a mosquito in Thailand are quite low.

Although mosquitoes in Thailand are present throughout the year, they’re most active from June until November.

It is more likely to see mosquitoes in the north of Thailand (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Doi Suthep National Park) rather than in the south (Phuket, Ko Samui, Phi Phi Islands, Krabi).

Here are some ideas on how to stay safe and protect yourself from a mosquito bite:

• Use an anti-mosquito spray or mosquito repelling bracelet
• Wear light colors – mosquitoes don’t like it
• Avoid using perfume – it attracts mosquitoes
• Use mosquito net provided by hotel or bungalow

6. Scooter Driving Safety In Thailand

First of all, you should wear a helmet for your safety. Driving in Thailand is dangerous. It has the second highest road traffic fatality rate in the world.

But there is one more thing. In Phuket, in high season the weather is so lovely that people tend to forget to wear helmets.

Many do not know that it is the number one reason why people are being pulled over by the police. I’ve seen countless police roadblocks with Thai police officers writing tickets to irresponsible scooter drivers.

7. Get International Driving Permit

During my first trip to Thailand, I was fined 500 Baht (USD 15.73, EUR 13,83, GBP 11.91) for driving a scooter without an IDP. In my home country, I have an A and B categories drivers license, but that didn’t help the case. I said to one of the police officers that I drive a sports bike, but he just smiled at me and asked for the documents.

As I was aware of the unpleasant situation, everything I could do was to be polite towards the policemen, and they replied with the same. They were very polite and maybe it was the reason why the fine was only 500 Baht. Although I don’t know what is the maximum penalty for driving without an IDP.

So to drive in Thailand legally, you need to have an International Driving Permit with you. 

I’ve written an article about an IDP. It answers questions about where to get an IDP, how much does it cost, etc. You can read my article HERE .

8. Motorbike Taxi Safety

Motorbike taxi in Bangkok is one of the fastest and at the same time the most dangerous way how to get around the city. It can be a good experience. Just don’t be shy to ask the driver to go slowly.

Motorbike taxi in Bangkok is one of the most popular means of transportation among locals. You will see motorbike taxis doing fast and smooth maneuvers through the traffic. To stay safe in the chaotic traffic of Bangkok, you should always remain sharp when driving a motorbike taxi.

When driving a motorbike taxi don’t use your phone, don’t sit astride on the motorbike and don’t to other stuff that might make this situation even more dangerous than it is.

9. Dress appropriately

It is less to do with your safety in Thailand than showing respect to Thai culture. To avoid condemning looks and situations when you’re forbidden entrance at the temple you should know some rules about dressing in Thailand.

There are many locations in Thailand where you have to dress appropriately. Thai people dress modestly and to respect them and their culture you should do the same.

Most of the temples in Thailand has a strict dress code policy. No sleeveless shirts, miniskirts, leggings, etc.

Knowing the written and unwritten Thai dress code rules might help you to stay out of the uncomfortable situations during your trip to Thailand as well as to occasionally get some neat little bonuses just because of your looks.

To find out what do I mean by that you will have to read my article “Dress code for tourists in Thailand 2019.”

10. Don’t Touch Monks

Don’t do it because it is against the rules.

In Thailand, Buddhist monks are forbidden to touch women to prevent distraction. It is one of approximately 300 laws that Buddhist monks have to obey.

It means that not touching a monk is a behavior of respect to him.

Of course, there are exceptions when a Buddhist monk could touch a woman. It could be a situation when someone’s life is endangered. For example, if someone is drowning.

11. Never Talk With Thai People About The King

Insulting the King of Thailand could end you up with a jail sentence of up to 70 years. It is better not to talk about the King of Thailand at all because any discussion about this topic at some point could be perceived wrong.

12. Respect The Smoking Ban In Thailand

By now there are at least 24 beaches in Thailand where it is forbidden to smoke. Rules for breaking the law are harsh – 100 000 Baht (3200 USD, 2826 EUR, 2455 GBP) or a jail sentence of up to one year.

Other locations where it is forbidden to smoke in Thailand are:

• Public parks
• Restaurants and other

In my article “Is smoking allowed in Thailand?” I have a more detailed explanation about the topic.

13. Vaping Is Illegal In Thailand

Vaping is illegal in Thailand. The maximum fine for vaping in Thailand is up to 10 years of jail sentence.

It is real, harsh and you should take it seriously. To avoid any unpleasant circumstances leave your vape at home when going to Thailand.

I’ve seen reports online that people had paid up to 500 USD in fines for vaping.

All smokers and vapers should read my article about smoking restrictions in Thailand.

14. Don’t Take Drugs

Access to drugs in Thailand is easy, and they’re cheap, but to avoid legal problems you shouldn’t do it.

I’ve already mentioned those harsh penalties of jail sentences about smoking and gambling, but Thai laws towards using or carrying drugs are brutal. Thai law allows for the death penalty although it is rare.

Depending on such factors as quantity and type of drugs, past legal history, citizenship status, and others the punishment for using or carrying drugs in Thailand for tourists most often is a significant amount of money or a jail sentence of few years.

Note that one of the popular tourist scams in Thailand is to sell you drugs and then to call fake police on you. You pay the fine to the fake police, and he splits the money with the seller. When they’re done with you they’re looking for the next victim.

15. Gambling In Thailand Is Not Safe

All Thailand is a no gambling zone. Two exceptions are a National Lottery and betting on horse racing. All other types of gambling are prohibited in Thailand, and doing it might get you in some serious trouble.

Similar to Smoking in Thai beaches gambling might end you up in jail.

Underground gambling scene in Thailand is huge, but it is not the safest thing you could do in Thailand as a tourist.

16. Never Leave Your Drink Unattended

I guess this one is like everywhere else in the world. There are reports of drink spiking in Thailand.

Note that some bars might replace the spirits of named brand liquors with inferior products to save money, but it is less likely to happen in high-end bars and restaurants.

17. Keep Your Valuables In Hotel Safe

Keeping your valuables in your hotel room safe is better than leaving them laying around somewhere in the room although YouTube is full of videos on how to open the hotel room safes easy.

Another alternative to a hotel room safe is a hotel lobby safe. It is less likely for someone to rob it if it can be seen from the hotel front desk.

18.Address Of Your Home Country’s Embassy In Thailand

If anything goes wrong when you’re abroad it is better if you have the address of your home country’s Embassy with you.

Embassy of the United States in Bangkok

Address: 95 Witthayu Road, Khwaeng Lumphini, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, Bangkok 10330

Phone number: +66 2 205 4000

British Embassy in Bangkok

Address: 14 Witthayu Road, Khwaeng Lumphini, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, Bangkok 10330

Phone number: +66 2 305 8333

Australian Embassy in Bangkok

Address: 181 Witthayu Road, Khwaeng Lumphini, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, Bangkok 10330

Phone number: +66 2 344 6300

Indian Embassy in Bangkok

Address: Ocean Tower 2, 75/120-121, 42nd floor, Soi Sukhumvit 19, Bangkok 10110

Phone number: +66 258 0300-6

Chinese Embassy in Bangkok

Address: 55 AA Building 2nd floor, Ratchadaphisek Soi 3, Bangkok 10400

Phone number: +66 2 450 888

19. Stay Safe From All The Scams In Thailand

Before I went to Thailand for the first time, I remember reading that one comment online. It went something like this: Locals will not approach you unless they want your money.

Before going to Thailand I spent some time watching YouTube videos about popular scams in Thailand and when I was there it all happened to me. Knewing the scams helped me to avoid all of them.

People were approaching me and asking for my destination. When I replied they said that the place was locked because of some holiday although it wasn’t true and then they offered me a tuk-tuk tour to someplace another.

Seems like a cashier giving you the wrong change is a norm. Always count the change. Sometimes those are 100 Baht, but one time for me those were 500 Baht. Of course, I asked for my money and got it back.

Then there was a taxi driver in Bangkok who arranged a super expensive private longtail boat ride for me. Those guys asked for 3000 Baht for a one-hour long ride through the old city of Bangkok. Just to compare a full day island hopping tour by a speedboat in Phuket in low season for two will cost you about 2200 Baht (USD 69, EUR 61, GBP 53).

20. Keep Your Valuables Safe And Carry Your Day Pack On Your Front

It is simple as that – carry your day pack on your front. In Thailand, you can be a victim of theft even in the day.

When traveling by the local bus for long distance, it is recommended to keep your bags where you can see them. Many thefts on long-distance buses happen while tourists are asleep or if their luggage is locked where they can not see it.

21. Safe Swimming In Thailand

No, this one is not going to be about the sharks as there are only four reports of shark attacks in Thailand in the last 100 years.

It is safe to swim in all beaches in Thailand although there are some dangers hidden in the waters of the Thai beaches:

• Sharp underwater rocks
• Rip Current
• Box jellyfish

In most of the Thai beaches, there are flags to warn you about unsafe swimming. Here is what each color of the flag means:

• Red means a high hazard, and you shouldn’t enter the water
• Red and yellow means that there is a lifeguard at the beach
• A yellow flag means medium hazard. Swimming is allowed, but there might be a possibility of rip current
• Black and white checkered flag is a zone for surfers
• A green flag means that there is no hazard and the swimming is safe

Note that there are no lifeguards at most Thai beaches.

22. Safe Drone Flying In Thailand

Drone registration in Thailand is a complicated, time-consuming and expensive process. My article “How to register drone in Thailand? Step by step guide.” explains this topic in more detail.

In this article, I write about steps that you can do by yourself and while in your home country before your trip to Thailand although to fly your drone in Thailand legally you will need help from inside as well. Read the article – it is all there.

When traveling to more isolated areas in Thailand just use your common sense and take the usual precautions, and you will be safe.

As I’ve mentioned above, it is recommended to behave good and respect locals as it will make your trip to Thailand as safe as possible.

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Is Thailand Safe For Tourists? – Your Question Answered

With its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, Thailand has long been a magnet for travelers worldwide. However, before delving into this Southeast Asian gem’s kaleidoscope of experiences, a common question echoes in the minds of prospective visitors: Is Thailand safe for tourists ?

Fear not, fellow wanderers! In this guide, we’ll unravel the layers of Thailand’s safety, assuring you that beneath the allure of its bustling cities and serene beaches lies a destination committed to ensuring your well-being. From navigating bustling markets to venturing into the tranquil countryside, let’s address the concerns and shed light on the safety measures that make Thailand a delightful haven for explorers.

Is Thailand Safe For Tourists?

Thailand is a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a nuanced safety landscape that is constantly evolving. Despite a marginal decrease in Bangkok’s safety index score to 58.5 in 2022 ( Statista ), Thailand remains the least dangerous country in Southeast Asia for tourists .

However, it is important to maintain a mindset of cautious optimism when exploring different parts of the country, as safety scenarios can vary. While crimes in popular tourist areas are infrequent, remaining vigilant and taking standard safety precautions throughout your journey is crucial.

As a responsible traveler, it is your duty to prioritize your safety and well-being. By adopting a proactive approach and staying alert, you can enjoy a secure and enjoyable exploration of Thailand.

Thailand – A safe Southeast Asian country to visit

Note:  The Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla provinces in southern Thailand are currently experiencing ethnic and racial conflicts, and it is recommended to avoid these areas.

>> Read More: 13 Best Places To Visit In Thailand For First Timers

Crimes & Other Risks In Thailand

Common crimes.

While Thailand is enchanting with its beauty, it’s crucial to be aware of potential challenges that may arise during your travels.

• Transport & Taxi risks: High

Motorbike accidents, particularly on the winding roads of destinations like Phuket and Samui, top the list of dangers for visitors. Navigating unfamiliar traffic rules can pose challenges, especially on mountainous terrains. Tourists are advised to exercise caution and consider alternative modes of transportation, steering clear of public options, which are hotspots for pickpockets.

Crowded road in Pratunam District of Bangkok

• Pickpocket risk: Medium

As the allure of Thailand grows, so does the presence of pickpockets thriving in crowded spaces teeming with foreigners. Heightened vigilance becomes paramount, especially in bustling tourist hubs. While muggings and kidnappings are infrequent, remote areas and the outskirts of major cities present potential risks. Travelers are encouraged to stay vigilant and adopt precautionary measures, particularly in less frequented corners of the country.

• Scam risk: High

Scams are prevalent in Thailand, with various service providers targeting tourists. Tuk-tuk drivers, faux police officers, and street vendors are known perpetrators. Tourists should be on guard, especially at ATMs, where pin codes can be at risk. Drinking in local establishments also requires caution, with reports of tourists being drugged and robbed.

• Mugging risk: Medium

Kidnappings, though rare, have occurred, especially in National Parks near the Myanmar (Burma) border. Muggings are also possible, especially in remote areas and on the outskirts of big cities.

• Women traveler risk: Low

While Thailand generally embraces safety for women, basic precautions remain essential. Avoiding dimly lit areas, deserted alleys, or walking alone in unfamiliar territories, particularly late at night, is recommended. Awareness of surroundings, especially in areas with bars or clubs, adds an extra layer of security. Women travelers are encouraged to exercise common sense and adhere to fundamental safety measures.

Chinatown street market, Yaowarat, in Bangkok

Political and Social Stability

Thailand’s political instability, primarily centered in Bangkok, creates a volatile security environment. Legal provisions granting extensive powers to the military, including curfews and media censorship, contribute to the uncertainty. Recent political turbulence, marked by the return of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, adds complexity to the situation.

Additionally, the risk of terrorism is assessed as a medium, with caution advised in southern regions due to past incidents. Thailand’s main cities are considered a medium-threat location for terrorist activity.

Natural Disasters

Thailand is vulnerable to various natural disasters, including floods, tsunamis, storms, droughts, landslides, forest fires, and epidemics. These hazards can pose health and safety risks to the population, impacting human life, livelihoods, and the economy.

Floods, the most impactful natural hazard, affect lives and well-being, while droughts adversely affect the agriculture sector. Climate-related hazards, intensified by climate change, further exacerbate the risks faced by Thailand.

>> Read More: Best Time To Visit Thailand

Health Risks

When visiting Thailand, travelers should be aware of several health risks:

• Infectious diseases : Dengue fever, transmitted by mosquito bites, poses a risk with symptoms including fever, headache, and joint pain.
• Food and waterborne illnesses : Precautions should be taken to avoid consuming unsafe food and water, with particular attention to avoiding improperly cooked or handled street food.
• Heat-related illnesses : Thailand’s tropical climate increases the risk of heat-related illnesses, necessitating precautions such as staying hydrated, minimizing sun exposure, and taking breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
• Rabies : The risk of rabies, transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, underscores the importance of avoiding contact with stray animals and seeking prompt medical attention if bitten or scratched.
• Road accidents : Thailand’s crowded traffic conditions elevate the risk of road accidents, emphasizing the need for caution and adherence to traffic rules.

Tips For Safe Travel In Thailand

Useful advice for your Thailand journey

Before you delve into the enchanting wonders of Thailand, arm yourself with essential safety tips. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a family of adventurers, or someone seeking thrills, these guidelines will ensure a secure and enjoyable travel experience.

• Respect local laws : Avoid making critical or defamatory comments about the royal family, which can lead to severe consequences, including imprisonment.
• Cultural sensitivity : Familiarize yourself with Thai customs and traditions to show respect for the local culture.
• Stay hydrated : Thailand’s tropical climate can be intense, so staying hydrated is crucial. Carry a water bottle and drink plenty of fluids.
• Secure your belongings : Exercise caution against pickpockets and secure your belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
• Health precautions : Take necessary health precautions, such as vaccinations, and carry a basic first aid kit.
• Lean on the embassy and consulates : Familiarize yourself with the locations and contact details of your country’s embassy and consulates in Thailand for emergent cases.
• Travel with a reliable agency : Consider using a reputable agency like Asia Pioneer Travel for a fun and safe journey in Thailand. Simply enjoy your trip!

>> Read More: Thailand Travel Requirements

Thailand Is Still A Safe And Wonderful Destination

While some risks do exist as with any travel destination, Thailand remains very safe for visitors when general precautions are followed. With its extremely low crime rate compared to other parts of the world, the chances of encountering issues are slim.

Discover the wonders of Thailand with peace of mind while Safely Traveling with Asia Pioneer Travel . With our expert local knowledge and customized itineraries, you can ensure a fun, safe, and authentic Thai experience. So don’t be deterred from discovering this fascinating country – by traveling smart with an experienced provider, you’ll find Thailand continues to be a prime Southeast Asian destination.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Pattani province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Pattani province.

Yala province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Yala province.

Narathiwat province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Narathiwat province.

Southern Songkhla province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Southern Songkhla province, except for:

• the areas north of and including the A43 road between Hat Yai and Sakom
• the areas north-west of the train line which runs between Hat Yai and Padang Besar

Hat Yai to Padang Besar train line

FCDO advises against all but essential travel on the Hat Yai to Padang Besar train line.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Thailand Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Thailand.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

There is no longer active cholera transmission and vaccine is not recommended.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Thailand.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Thailand. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Thailand.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Thailand take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Thailand.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Thailand. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Thailand, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Thailand. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Thailand, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Thailand. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Thailand—such as dengue, Zika, and filariasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Thailand include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Thailand. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Thailand’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Thailand. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Thailand may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Thailand, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Thailand, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Thailand .

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Thailand.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Thailand, dial 1669 for an ambulance, 199 for the fire department, and 191 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you on your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Thailand before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Thailand from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Thailand for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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If you're traveling to Bangkok, here are the latest COVID-19 rules, the best time of year to visit, and important items to pack

• If you're planning a trip to Bangkok, Thailand, be aware of COVID-19 and other local advisories.
• Travelers must show proof of health insurance and anyone unvaccinated must submit a negative PCR test.

• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

Thailand is a country that heavily relies on tourism, and changing restrictions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted locals immensely. After several iterations of quarantine programs, Thailand is now considered fully open to travelers .

Currently, masks are required in Bangkok indoors, outdoors, and in vehicles, and you could be fined for not complying. They're required for those aged two years and older. Some public spaces can be quite poorly ventilated.

International flights

As of May 1, Thailand's hotel quarantine programs have ended for vaccinated travelers. PCR testing either prior to or upon arrival is also no longer required. You will still need to apply for a Thailand Pass via the designated website before travel (no less than two weeks is advised) and show proof of a COVID-19 insurance plan for approval. Thai insurance companies AXA and ASQ offer inexpensive, government-accepted options. More information is available here .

Domestic flights

Flying domestically in Thailand is straightforward. You will likely be asked to show your Thailand Pass upon arrival and departure.

Related stories

If you're vaccinated

Those who are vaccinated may apply for the Thailand Pass by submitting proof of vaccination, insurance, flight itinerary, and a scan of their passport photo page.

The online portal is free and you will receive a QR code by email within a few days. You may be asked for a paper copy upon arrival, so keep a couple with you to avoid queuing at airport printing stations.

If you're unvaccinated

Those who are unvaccinated will need to apply for the Thailand Pass with the same above documents plus register for a five-day quarantine program and provide a PCR test no older than 72 hours before their departure date.

When's the best time to visit Bangkok?

According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) , Bangkok is among the world's hottest cities with temperatures normally ranging around 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

As someone who has lived in Bangkok full-time for years, I think the cool season between November and February is the best time to visit. March and April are sweltering months, and most of your time will be spent in pools and air-conditioned spaces like shopping malls. The wet season runs from May to October, and while monsoon rains only last for an hour or so at times, logistical challenges arise from storms. The streets can flood up to knee-length and traffic becomes a mess.

If you're spending time outdoors in Bangkok, pack layers (the air conditioning in taxis and malls can be a shock to the system), drink lots of water, and wear sunscreen.

View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Bangkok, Thailand.

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COVID-19 Guide for Travelers to and in Thailand

Required Documents for Travel to Thailand

Please have the following documents ready.

• Visa (if required)
• Buy Thailand Travel Insurance
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel booking confirmation
• Vaccination record (if vaccinated)
• COVID-19 test result (if unvaccinated)

Incorrect documents will delay the entry screening to Thailand.

Buy Your Insurance Now

Thailand Travel Restrictions 2022

(Updated May 25, 2022)

• Latest updates on Thailand Pass

Top 20 Questions on Thailand Pass

• How to Travel to Thailand in 2022
• Thailand Travel Restrictions
• Join our Facebook Group
• Best COVID Insurance for Thailand
• Test and Go Thailand (March 2022)
• Test and Go Hotels in Bangkok
• Test and Go Hotels in Phuket
• Test and Go Hotels in Pattaya
• Test and Go Hotels in Koh Samui

TODAY’S UPDATE:

• Thailand reopens the country without quarantine to fully vaccinated travelers from any countries and territories under the Test and Go program .
• Fully Vaccinated Thai and foreign travelers from non-listed countries may still enter Thailand without quarantine through the Phuket Sandbox Program , Samui Sandbox , Bangkok, Pattaya , Hua Hin , and Chiang Mai Sandbox starting November 1, 2021.
• The Thai government has restored the mandatory quarantine of 10 days for unvaccinated Thai and foreign travelers.
• Thailand Pass is required for Thai and foreigners to enter Thailand including those nationalities under the Visa Exemption and Visa on Arrival list.
• The Test and Go Hotel , AQ Hotel , SHA+ Hotel reservation, and COVID-19 Insurance with a minimum coverage of $20,000 are still required for foreigners entering Thailand.

• The Thai Embassies and Consulates are now issuing 60-day tourist visa and special tourist visa (STV) and Thailand Pass to enter Thailand .
• Thailand allows semi-commercial flights to travel to Thailand.
• The foreigners to be allowed to enter Thailand will comprise of diplomats and foreign workers including their families, business representatives, and experts invited by the government, permanent residents, foreigners with Thai families, students and their guardians, medical tourists and their attendants, business visa holders, Thai Elite Visa holders, APEC Cardholders, special tourist visa (STV) and tourist visa (TRV) holders, non-immigrant O retirement visa, non-immigrant OA and OX holders and migrant workers with official documents. Foreigners must get in touch with the local Thai Embassy in their current location to apply for a Thailand Pass and for more information.
• From now until September 30, 2022 Thailand will allow long stay foreign tourists under the Special Tourist Visa (STV) Program. This long-stay visa is open to foreign nationals traveling to Thailand with the intention to stay long-term as tourists to boost the tourism industry. Those who are qualified must get in touch with the local Tourism Authority of Thailand Office or Thai Embassy in their current location for more information.
• Frequently Asked Questions below.

I am an expat leaving Thailand for a short time and returning. Do I have to apply for Thailand Pass and Test & Go?

Yes. At this time, all people entering Thailand must apply for a Thailand Pass and follow Test & Go requirements if they are fully vaccinated. This includes having the required entry requirements such as insurance, SHA+ hotel booking, RT-PCR test, and Thailand Pass approval.

I am an expat returning to Thailand. Can I quarantine at home instead of a hotel?

No. No matter what visa you hold in Thailand, you must follow the Test & Go entry requirements. You must spend 1 night in a SHA+ quarantine hotel while waiting for your RT-PCR test result.

Have the April 1 changes to pre-departure RT-PCR testing come into effect?

Yes. Pre-departure RT-PCR tests are no longer required when entering Thailand.

Has the April 1 change come into effect for the Sandbox scheme?

Yes. The Sandbox scheme now requires only 5 nights of quarantine in the Sandbox designated area. Visitors must now do 1 x RT-PCR test and 1 x ATK test on day 5 instead of 2 x RT-PCR tests. The Test & Go program is a better option for those who are fully vaccinated.

Have the April 1 changes come into effect for the un-vaccinated Alternate Quarantine scheme?

Yes. The Alternate Quarantine timeframe has been reduced from 10 nights to 5 nights. You still need to have 2 x RT-PCR tests during this time. The tests will be taken on Day 1 and on Day 4 or 5.

I booked a 10-day Alternate Quarantine package but I am arriving after April 1. What should I do with the new changes?

You may contact your hotel. If you have not arrived in Thailand before April 1, you are eligible for the updated 5-day Alternate Quarantine scheme. Your hotel will advise what options are available to you.

Do I need to print my Thailand Pass documents for when I arrive at Passport Control in Thailand?

Yes. It is the best practice as you will present these documents to Immigration and Health Officers at the airport Passport and Health Control.

If you only have digital copies and something happens to your electronic device, you will not be allowed to enter the country.

How do I present my Thailand Pass QR code if my mobile phone is not working?

You should print a hard copy of your Thailand Pass QR code. If your mobile device does not work in Thailand, you can still present the QR code to Immigration and Health Officers at the airport Passport and Health Control.

Can I upload my Thailand Pass QR code to the MorChana App before I arrive in Thailand?

No. You can download the MorChana App before arriving in Thailand, but it will not allow uploads until you arrive in the country. You may ask your SHA+ hotel staff to assist you on how to navigate the app.

If I land in Phuket with the correct insurance, my SHA+ hotel, airport transfer, and separate RT-PCR tests booked, can I apply for Test & Go?

Yes. The above requirements are required to apply for Test & Go and Thailand Pass. You will also need to be vaccinated to apply for Test & Go.

Have the April 1 changes affected domestic flights in Thailand?

No. When landing in Thailand, domestic flights on arrival must still be approved “sealed” flights. Please check with Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways for the new list of sealed flights to Phuket and Samui.

Can I do my Test & Go quarantine in Pattaya?

Yes. If you land in Bangkok you can organize Test & Go quarantine in Pattaya. Your SHA+ hotel must provide transport from Bangkok airport to the hotel.

If your flight lands directly at Pattaya airport you will do your RT-PCR test at the airport and then be transported to your hotel.

Are international flights landing in Pattaya?

There are flights now landing directly at Pattaya U-tapao International Airport. Check with your airline provider for available direct flights.

Can I take a domestic flight from Bangkok to Pattaya for Test & Go quarantine?

Only if the flight is an approved “sealed” flight. This should be booked as part of your international flight itinerary.

If you book separate domestic flights, you are required to quarantine for 1 night in Bangkok before traveling to Pattaya.

What SHA+/AQ hotels are available in Pattaya?

You can find the latest information for SHA+/AQ hotels in Pattaya at Agoda .

Why is my US credit card being rejected when trying to book my RT-PCR test?

There is an issue with www.thailandpsas.com approving transactions with American credit cards. You can contact your hotel and they will organize the RT-PCR test booking for you.

I am trying to book hotel transport in Phuket with an American credit card and it is rejected. What can I do?

Transport from the airport to your hotel should be included in your SHA+ quarantine package. If there is an issue booking your hotel with an American credit card, try a different card or purchase through PayPal.

My hotel in Phuket does not offer transport from the hotel. What should I do?

Any SHA+/AQ hotel should include transport from the airport to their hotel. If they do not offer this service, it is best to look at different hotels because you cannot organize private transport.

Where can I see if hotel transfer is included in Phuket when looking at Agoda?

Many Phuket hotels do not list Airport Transfer on their front page. Click into the hotel and look at the bottom left corner of the details page. Airport transfer will be listed here under services offered.

How do I book a private transfer from the airport to a hotel in Phuket?

You cannot. Transfer from Phuket airport to your hotel must be provided by the hotel so it meets all Covid safety measures.

Siam Legal Visa and Thailand Pass Application Assistance

Package 1: 395 usd (for canada, uk and us only) 3-4 weeks.

• Thai Visa Consultation with our Visa Specialist
• Assistance in Thai visa application (non-immigrant O visa and tourist visa)
• Assistance in Thailand Pass application
• Assistance in booking an AQ or SHA+ or Test & Go Hotel
• Assistance in getting the best COVID insurance in Thailand
• Assistance in booking the flight to Thailand

Package 2: 200 USD (for Canada, UK and US only) 3-4 weeks

• Thai Visa Consultation with our Thai Visa consultant
• Extensive checklist of required documents
• Assistance in Thai visa application (non-immigrant O marriage visa and tourist visa)

Package 3: 100 USD (all eligible countries) 5-7 days

• Visa Consultation with our Thai Visa consultant
• Assistance in Thailand Pass application (including visa exemption)

COVID-19 Thailand Visa Amnesty/Extension

What is a visa amnesty or covid extension.

It is the visa relief or 60-day visa extension for all foreign nationals staying in Thailand affected by the COVID-19 crisis. Foreigners can apply for a COVID extension at any immigration office until March 25, 2022.

Who are covered by the visa amnesty or COVID extension?

All foreign nationals who are legally staying in Thailand whether you are here on visa exemption entry stamps and tourist visas. The holders of non-immigrant visas, or yearly extension of stays are not eligible for the COVID extension.

What are the current implementing rules regarding the visa amnesty or COVID extension?

• Visas or permits to stay that are still valid and updated by the local Thai immigration office.
• Foreigners holding a long-term visa such as a working visa, marriage visa, or retirement are required to apply for their yearly extension at the Thai immigration office as usual.
• Foreigners do not need any embassy letter to be granted the automatic visa extension due to COVID-19.

Is the COVID-19 visa extension free of charge?

The COVID-19 extension of the visa costs 1,900 Thai baht.

Will the visa amnesty be extended?

The validity of the visa amnesty is until March 25, 2022 only. There is no indication that this visa amnesty or grace period will be extended.

What will happen when the visa amnesty is lifted or not extended anymore?

When the situation is resolved and returns to normal, foreigners must leave Thailand on or before the permit to stay date in their passports or they must apply for the proper another type of visa at the immigration office.

Want to stay in Thailand for up to 20 years? Consider the Thailand Elite Visa program.

90-Day Reporting

If you are a foreigner staying in Thailand for a period longer than 90 consecutive days holding a Non-Immigrant Visa or Extension of Stay, you are required by Thai Immigration to report your current address every 90 days. You may file for the TM47 notification in person, by mail, online, or by an agent. Please check this page: https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand/90-day-reporting-immigration.php

Consequences of Visa Overstay

During this COVID-19 crisis in Thailand, some foreign nationals may find themselves overstaying in Thailand, do so by mistake, by miscalculating the length of their stay, forgetting their visa expiration date, or by unforeseen cancellation of their flights due to travel restrictions. As a traveler, you should strongly avoid overstaying in Thailand, but if you do find yourself in Thailand on an expired visa it is very important that you act fast and in the right way. Please check this page to learn more of the consequences of overstaying in Thailand: https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand/overstay-visa-thailand.php

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Visa Exemption and Visa on Arrival

Foreigners under the Visa Exemption program and the Visa on Arrival programs may now travel to Thailand. Foreigners under the Visa Exemption may enter Thailand without a visa for up to 30 days and travelers under the Visa on Arrival program may stay in Thailand for up to 15 days. Travelers under the Visa Exemption and the Visa on Arrival must apply for Thailand Pass before traveling to Thailand.

Frequently Asked Questions

To extend a tourist visa, do i need to visit the thai immigration office in person i do not want to go to crowded areas at risk of covid-19 infection..

Yes, there have been no changes regarding the visa extension application whether it is your first time to extend or the second time to extend. The application is still done in person. Thai immigration offices are practicing different measures such as social distancing and disinfecting the area to make sure that the applicants are not at risk of contracting the COVID-19. You might want to see if your local Thai immigration is open on Saturdays. That is a less crowded day of the week to visit the immigration office.

I have tried online reporting and reporting through a mobile app, both attempts failed. What are my other options?

If the online and mobile app reporting does not work, you need to do the reporting by yourself or you can ask a visa agent or third party to do the 90-day address reporting. You need to provide a power of attorney and the 90-day reporting documents such as the original and copy of the passport. There is no immigration fee for address reporting.

Is it required by law to wear a face mask?

The emergency decree issued by the Thai Government that came into effect recommends everyone wear a face mask when they are outside of their residence. However, some provinces such as Phuket have their own rule and you will be subject to a penalty. In Bangkok, commuters are required to wear a face mask when using public transportation and while in public places.

Should I carry my passport at all times?

Yes. If you are a foreigner and you will be out of your residence or hotel, you need to carry your passport especially right now that there are random checks to check the visa validity. It is also good to know that there are banks that would not allow you to enter the premises if you have traveled recently abroad, so it is best to have your passport with you at all times.

I am aware of the entry requirements for foreigners entering Thailand, is there special consideration for those traveling with my Thai family or visiting my Thai family?

At the moment, you can enter Thailand. You just have to make sure that you have obtained a Thailand Pass , purchased COVID-19 Insurance , had a COVID-19 test and you will undergo a mandatory Test and Go or ASQ quarantine.

I have a Non-Immigrant B visa and work permit expiring on April 24, due to my country’s travel restriction I cannot return to Thailand to renew it. What are my options?

If your country does not allow you to travel to Thailand or if your country of departure is under the travel ban, I regret to inform you that there is nothing you are able to do. It is not possible to renew it while you are outside Thailand and it is also not possible to renew it at the Thai embassy in your country. Should your visa and work permit expire while you are outside Thailand, you need to apply for a new non-immigrant B visa for you to enter Thailand and after you have entered Thailand, you can apply for a new work permit.

When do I need the embassy letter for the COVID-19 visa extension?

As of writing, the embassy letter is no longer required by the immigration office to receive the 60-day COVID-19 extensions.

I am looking for flights from Laos to Europe and this requires me to transit in Thailand. Do I need a Health Certificate when transiting? There are multiple different articles including the one on Thai Airways stating that a Health Certificate is required for transiting passengers.

As of writing, international passengers including transiting passengers are required to present a COVID-19 health certificate and negative COVID test result. If you are affected by this travel requirement, you may opt to postpone your travel or you may opt to book a flight that will not transit through Thailand. For the latest update, it is best to contact your airline.

I am a US citizen traveling from the US to Thailand via Hong Kong, am I subject to mandatory quarantine?

No, the mandatory quarantine is not required for any foreigner and Thai travelers entering Thailand via Hong Kong if you are fully vaccinated. You may apply for Thailand Pass under the Test and Go program. The mandatory 10-day quarantine is only required for unvaccinated travelers from any country.

I’m a French national. I have 60 days tourist visa, which is ending soon, but due to COVID-19, I am kind of reluctant to travel back to France. Is there any way that I can extend my visa for another 30 days?

Yes, any nationality holding a 60-day tourist visa entry stamp can extend for 30 days at the local immigration office. For the extension, you just have to submit one passport-size photo (4cm x 6cm) with white background, TM6 card, TM30 receipt from your hotel, and pay the fee of 1,900 Thai baht.

I am British and I entered Thailand on holiday on March 3 and am scheduled to leave on April 1. If my flight is canceled due to COVID-19, I may be forced to overstay my 30 days permit to stay until I have a rescheduled flight. Is this ok? If not, what should I do?

You are able to extend this 30-day visa exemption stamp for another 30 days at the local Thai immigration office. For the extension, you just have to submit one passport-size photo (4cm x 6cm) with white background, TM6 card, TM30 receipt from your hotel, and pay the fee of 1,900 Thai baht.

I am an American and I have a 30-day visa exemption that I extended for an extra 30 days. My current extension will expire on April 1, 2021. What are my options to stay in Thailand due to the travel restriction in other countries?

You have two options: 1.) You can extend your current extension for 30 days at your local immigration office. 2.) You can request a COVID-19 extension and you will be given a 60 days extension at your local Thai immigration office.

I have a non-immigrant O visa for having a Thai wife. It is a single entry visa. My 90-day entry stamp will expire in April and the money in my account has not seasoned yet for 2 months. What can I do?

Since you are legally married to a Thai national, you can apply for a 60-day extension for having a Thai wife. This extension will give you enough time for your funds to season for 2 months. After your funds have seasoned for 2 months, you may apply for a 1-year extension or marriage visa.

My work permit and my visa will expire by the end of the month. Due to the current COVID-19 situation, I am not able to return to my country. What are my options?

Since your visa and your work permit will expire, your only option for an extension of your stay in Thailand is to file for the 60-day COVID extension. You may apply for this extension on the last day of your permit to stay.

I am flying from the USA to Thailand via Hong Kong. Do I still need to present a health certificate and travel insurance?

At the moment, passengers entering Thailand need to obtain the Thailand Pass , purchase a COVID-19 insurance , book Test and Go Hotel for 1 night, or an ASQ Hotel for the 10-day quarantine (if not vaccinated), and obtain a COVID-19 medical certificate.

Can anyone advise what to do regarding my Non-B visa? My Non-B expired on 4th March. I have to pay a fine of 500 baht per day for overstay. The borders around Thailand are closed for me to renew it. I have requested a 30-day extension but was refused. They need my new contract for the new year. This is costing me an arm and a leg. What are my solutions?

The best solution for this is to avoid overstaying so that you will not get in trouble in the future. If you do not have a new contract from the school it is imperative for you to return to your home country until you have a new contract and apply for a new visa from the Thai embassy there. Once you have secured a new non-immigrant B visa, you may return to Thailand together with a copy of the health certificate and health insurance. Another option is to request a COVID extension while you are preparing the documents for your non-immigrant B visa. Some immigration offices are now issuing non-immigrant B visas.

I am a U.S. citizen. I arrived in Bangkok last March 9. My flight to Manila has been canceled on April 8. I am in Pattaya. Do I need a US embassy letter to extend my 45-day Travel Visa? Or can I just go to the Thai Immigration office in Pattaya to get an extension due to COVID-19?

No, you do not need an embassy letter at this time. Your current 45-day visa exemption stamp can be extended for an additional 30 days. For the extension, you just have to submit one passport size photo (4cm x 6cm) with white background, TM6 card, TM30 receipt from your hotel and pay the fee of 1,900 Thai baht.

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2,085 Comments

Hello! I have a question! I got 3 doses, but the last one was in January. Is there an expiration date so I am not considered fully vaccinated again? Thank you! Greetings!

Dear Daniel,

You are considered fully vaccinated.

For more information about travel to Thailand, please check this link: https://www.siam-legal.com/legal-guide/how-to-enter-thailand-2022-guide.pdf

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Why would anyone take an experimental vaccine.when 99.9% recovery..so sad to hear million dieing worldwide from the vaccine . I give travelling a miss

Hello, how many doses do i need to be considered fully vaccinated ? I got 3 doses up till now and my trip is on early october

2 doses is fully vaccinated.

When is the Covid-19 visa extension deadline? Can I still extend my Covid-19 visa?

The deadline was August 24, 2022.

Hi there, I’m traveling in Chiang Mai with my friend (He’s a Taiwanese living in Japan) and he got PCR tested positive today. His tourist visa expires the day after tomorrow and he has ticket to Japan on the same day. Japan requires him to be tested negative with certification.

Issues: – tourist visa is expiring – he cannot go to next destination because he has covid

any advice would be appreciated thank you.

Your friend can still get visa extension thru 3rd person. He/She need to be tested negative prior to continue his travel.

I arrived in Thailand a few days ago. I am not fully vaccinated, so I did an RT-PCR test in my country before departure. Now the result of the test is expired. I’m planning a flight from Bangkok to Phuket. Do I need to make a PCR test again in case of domestic flights in Thailand?

Hi Nicholson,

For domestic travel , it’s not necessary. Only upon entering Thailand.

Hi there, I’m a Filipino that entered Thailand with a visa exemption of 30 days. If I want to continue staying in Thailand as a tourist, do I have to apply for a tourist visa at the immigration office? How long can it be extended? And can it be done within Thailand? Thanks in advance for your help.

Hi Alicia ,

You can extend it for additional 30 days. Check this https://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand-visa/thai-visa-exemption-and-bilateral-agreement

Hello there,

Thank you for response. I would also like to ask if you were still requiring RT-PCR test for transit passenger. I had connecting flight there within an hour then I will fly to my final destination in Manila.

Yes, if unvaccinated.

I have a flight on Sept 18,2022 to Manila PH. I am a fully vaccinated OFW coming from Germany and had a connecting flight in Bangkok,Thailand within an hour then I will fly home bound to Manila. I would like to ask if you are still requiring Travel insurance,RT-PCR or Rapid test and if I still need to register on your Thailand health pass for Transit passenger like me. Hoping for your response. Thank you.

Hello Joana,

A health Insurance and the Thai Pass requirement for international/transit passengers will be lifted from 1 July, 2022 onwards. However, please check for the latest travel requirements with the airline and the country of your furthers destination.

I am currently in Phuket as tourist and I tested positive. What should I do?

If asymptomatic, make self isolation if with symptoms and severe admit yourself at nearest hospital. Your can do visa extension via third party.

Hi. I got in Thailand with 60-day tourist visa and later got my Non B working as a teacher. This visa expires end of September and I will no longer work for the company, but I would like to stay in the country. Do you think I should ask for a tourist visa (do I need to leave Thailand to do so?), or a covid visa extension if it’s still possible?

You can extend it for additional 30 days.

I am an Australian currently in Indonesia who will fly directly to Thailand to volunteer for an organisation for 60 days. Which visa can I apply for from Indonesia? Or should I arrive with the 30 days visa exemption and extend this to 60 days once I am there?

Yes, you can apply and do visa extension prior you finish your 30 days free visa.

Hi … I’m isolating in Bangkok due to contracting Covid. My Thai visa runs out today. I expect to get a negative PCR test result sometime next week. As soon as I get a negative result I wish to fly to Laos. Can I show the PCR test results to Immigration at the airport and deal with the overstay issues there before flying out to Laos?

Yes. To avoid penalty

Hi, Im Russian, Do I need to be vaccinated to enter Thailand, or PCR test is enough?

Hi Mustafa,

For easy entry, fully vaccinated is better, Just prepare your vaccination certificate and Passport. If unvaccinated, you need to have valid 72 hours RT PCR upon entry.

Hi, Me and my wife are trying to return to HK from Bangkok but we are struggling to find a quarantine hotel. We may have found one which is available from the 31st but our visa exemption expires on the 30th. How can we extend our visa exemption by a few days so we can travel on the 31st? Thanks

You can visit with the nearest immigration office o. You can also call our office +66 2 254 8900 and visit our website https://www.siam-legal.com/legal_services/thailand-visa-services.php for further assistance.

Currently staying in Bangkok

Here’s the address of our Bangkok office 18th Floor, Unit 1806 Two Pacific Place, 142 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

Hi, I am unvaccinated, I will do the PCR test 72 hours prior to flight in Aug:

1. what is the procedure of my kid of 6 years old? 2. what if the PCR result of one of us result is positive? we are not allowed to fly, right? or we can fly but need to have the hotel of SHA+ for quarantine for 5 days? Thanks in advance

1. If you are unvaccinated and with children, both of you should have 72 hours RT PCR. 2. If the result is positive, you will be isolated at quarantine facility for a week . Better to secure your travel insurance with covid coverage in any case happen.

Hye. I’ve been looking for the latest requirement for transit in Thailand. I’m still not sure if I still need to have the insurance for 1hour+ transit in Thailand. Does anyone have answer for this? Thank you

Insurance is optional.

good afternoon, i have the complete vaccination and i have a trip to thailand on the 16th. the entry rules have changed today, it is still necessary to apply Thailand pass? And regarding travel insurance, is it still necessary? Thank you waiting for a reply

Thailand Pass is no longer required. Insurance is not mandated but still highly recommended.

Hi there one question arrive in Phuket, German with exemption 30 days is it still possible extend that for 30 days or will get only 7 days? can it be done in patong immigration or must go Phuket town immigration?

You can arrange your visa extension at Phuket immigration. You can also reach our office for assistance : +66 76 326 322

Hi .. My GM and Family [Qatari Nationals] Travelling to Thailand – Phuket on: 30 June [1-week stay] 2-Adults 18+[Fully Vaccinated] Is they needed PCR Test prior to their Travel Please…??

If adults are fully vaccinated, children can enter Thailand with the same procedure of adults as well.

Hi, can non-fully vaccinated traveller enter Thailand in June with a recovery certificate that is still valid for 3 months from the date tested positive, instead of taking a pro ART?

Also, is the test also required for domestic flights (eg. Bangkok to Phuket)?

Yes, you need a negative RT PCR within 72 hours of your flight. For domestic flights, no other requirements as long you successfully enter Thailand.

If I have been diagnosed with covid recently (less than 14 days) before my flight to Thailand, can I still enter Thailand? I have since recovered and am negative before departure and have also been fully vaccinated more than 14 days before entry.

Yes, bring your vaccination certificate and certificate of recovery.

Hi, I am flying from India to Hong Kong via Bangkok, with a 3-hour layover. The flight is this Saturday. My complete journey is booked on the same ticket.

Could you please confirm for me all the requirements I need to comply with for my layover?

A reply from you would be greatly appreciated! Thank you so much

If you will travel for the month of June and fully vaccinated, just covid insurance. But if you will recheck in your luggage at immigration for your next flight, you need to apply Thailand Pass.

Effective on July 1, Thailand Pass is not necessary and insurance is optional.

Where can I find all the information for people in transit at the international airport BKK-Suvarnabhumi Intl. in June 24?

Open the link for your guidance, https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/covid-19-guide-for-travelers-in-thailand

I’ve entered thailand with a visa exemption for 30 days. Can I extend this by 60 days now or do I have to extend it by only 30 days first?

Hi Alexander,

If you will exceed with the granted visa exemption of 30 days, Yes , get visa.

We are a family of 5 transiting from Singapore to Bangkok then to Dubai. It’s a 4 hour layover. I hate the requirement to transit?

Hi Stephen,

If you will recheck in you baggage at immigration, apply for Thailand Pass and insurance. If no, just travel insurance with covid medical coverage of USD 10, 000

What is required if I am only transiting through Thailand? I am a US citizen. I am leaving Myanmar and traveling back to the United States. Myanmar requires everyone to have a negative PCR test to board the plane. Do I still need insurance or a Thai Pass if I am only passing through Thailand on an 8 hour layover?

Hi Monique,

If your flight details will be within the month of June, yes insurance is still required. If July 1st onwards, insurance is optional.

I am transiting through Bangkok (with through baggage) before landing in Japan. Is it right I need insurance even though it’s just a 2hr layover? I have vaccination proof, and will have a COVID test too of course. Is insurance necessary for the short layover? Thanks

Yes, you need insurance. Also, if you will recheck in your baggage at immigration, apply Thailand Pass.

I am travelling from Hong Kong to the UK with a layover of 10 hours in Bangkok. I will only stay in transit areas in BKK airport. I am vaccinated a year ago. I suppose I would need a negative PCR test result, may i ask if i also need medical insurance to travel via Thailand in this case? Thanks in advance.

Yes, travel insurance with covid coverage of USD 10,000 is required. If you will gonna recheck in your baggage at immigration, Thailand Pass is needed , if No, not necessary.

Hi Yordmanu, Thanks for getting back. Sorry may i confirm again if PCR test is needed if i am only in transit, given that i am vaccinated a year ago?

Thanks again!

No for layover it’s not necessary, just covid insurance if you will enter for this month of June 2022.

Hi, I have flight from Paris to Bangkok with Emirates on 03 Jul but it will only be transit as I will then go from Bangkok to Jakarta (Thai Lion) on few hours difference. Then on the way back on 23 Jul, I go from Jakarta to Bangkok but as the connecting flight from Bangkok to Hong Kong is more than 12 hours, I need to book overnight hotel. Note that I have to change airport as both airlines are different. What is my requirement for this specific case

Effective on July 1st, Thailand Pass will be removed and covid insurance is optional. Just bring you vaccination certificate.

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My family and I are travelling to Vietnam with a flight transfer in Bangkok airport for 2 hours later in June. Can you please advise what is now required to ensure no issues. My wife and myself are fully vaccinated with Certificate of vaccination and children are 13 and 11. Can you please advise what is needed and whether we need to complete the Thailand Pass application if we are not leaving the airport transfer area?

Your children can be enter with the same procedure of parents,(If you are fully vaccinated, that will be their procedure too). For Thailand Pass, just put their name under your application, there’s a button for additional there.

I will be travelling from Hong Kong with a stopover at Bangkok to EWR via Ethiopia Airline on about 16 August 2022. With reference to the statement below:-

Each passenger shall possess the complete set of documents which include: (1) Medical Certificate with a laboratory result indicating that COVID-19 is not detected, using RT-PCR method, which has been certified or issued no more than 72 hours before departure, OR certificate of vaccination showing that the last dose was administered no less than 14 days before the date of departure.”

Is it correct that RT-PCR is not needed so long I can present certificate of vacccination?

Dear Simon,

Yes, you are correct. Proof of Vaccination is enough. You do not need to do any COVID test. Thank you.

I am travelling to Pakistan from Hong Kong Via Thai Airways. I have a transit in Bangkok for 5 hrs and my baggage is mentioned to be checked through. I will not leave the airport restricted area during the waiting hours. Do I still need to buy travel insurance? I am fully vaccinated and might not require Thailand Pass as well.

If you will not recheckin your baggage for your next flight, just obtain travel insuourance with covid medical coverage.

We are flying from Melbourne to Thessaloniki (Greece) via Istanbul and Bangkok, departing 16 June 2022. Transit at Bangkok Airport will be on 16 June for about 3.5 hours.

We are a family of four.

Two adults having received two doses and two children (12 & 9) that have not been vaccinated yet but have had COVID a few months ago.

Q1: Do we all need to have a PCR Test for transit via Bangkok?

Q2: Are there any issues with the children not being vaccinated?

Children will have a same process with their parents. If they got covid, bring certificate of recovery.

Hello, I am flying from Kazakhstan to Malaysia with a transit in Phuket. What documents will I need?

Apply for Thailand Pass, if your travel time will be on the month of June.

I am flying from London to Sydney via Zurich and Bangkok, departing 10 February 2022. Transit at Bangkok Airport will be on 11 February for about 2 hours.

To transit, I know that I will need evidence of medical insurance. I will also have a proof of vaccination certificate.

Do I also need a PCR test result in addition to the vaccination certificate ? Or is the certificate good enough for transit ?

Yes, you will be needing Medical Certificate with a laboratory result indicating that COVID-19 is not detected, using RT-PCR method, which has been certified or issued no more than 72 hours before departure. Thank you.

I have two questions:

1. If I recently have been infected by COVID-19 and my PCR test prior to departure is positiv, can I use the certificate of recovery instead? I understand that the certificate of recovery is accepted if the test nr. 1 at the arrival in Thailand is positive, but what if the test in Denmark (my home country) is positive prior to take off?

2. Is it possible to travel by flights within Thailand (flight from Bangkok to Phuket) between the test on day 1 and day 5?

First, for those previously infected you must present a valid COVID-19 recovery form or medical certificate certifying that you have recovered from COVID-19 within 3 months before traveling or are asymptomatic in case your COVID- 19 RT-PCR test shows a positive result. If you’ve been tested positive prior to take off you must contact your airlines if what requirements you should bring with you. Second, Yes you can travel once you have your negative test result on your Day 1. Thank you.

Will the covid amnesty visa will renewed after 25th January?

Yes, it has been continued until March 25, 2022. Thank you.

Is Thai pass needed for transit via Bangkok(flying on Feb 6th from chennai to sydney with 1:30 hrs transit in Bangkok)?

You only need RT PCR test result and insurance. Thank you.

I have been approved via THailand Pass for entrry in January 2022. I recently recovered from COVID, but my PCR test is likely to still come back positive. Am I granted entry into Thailand with appropriate medical documentation of recovery? Will I still be required to take a PCR test upon arrival?

Dear Shannon,

Good day. You can still use your Thailand Pass to travel to Thailand however, you must also test negative in the RT-PCR test because you cannot board the flight if you tested positive, the airline will not allow you. Thank you.

Vietnam is open..we all plan to go there..no need for anything

Effective on July 1, Thailand Pass will be removed. Just bring your vaccination certificate, and the insurance is optional.

Is the 60 day covid 19 visa extension still possible at the immigration? Do I need any embassy letter or other document?

Yes, it is still possible to request for the extension under COVID. You can do this extension and visit immigration office until January 25, 2022. Thank you.

Hello, I am from the Philippines and I have parents working in Thailand. Would I still need to apply for a Thailand pass and undergo quarantine?

Dear Iszach,

Good day. Yes, you still need a Thailand Pass to be able to enter Thailand. If you are fully vaccinated, you can do a test and go program. For more information, please visit: https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/thailand-pass Thank you.

Hello, I am just checking to see if we qualify for the Phuket Sandbox. My husband, daughter and I are Canadian diplomats currently residing in Malaysia. We would be 2 weeks post fully being vaccinated come August 1 when we would like to travel to Phuket and stay 8 days (not planning to leave the Island). I know we need the Visa, Covid Tests and insurance, but my question is, if we are Canadian but leaving from Malaysia would we be able to take advantage of the sandbox or do we need to be coming from Canada. We would be able to take a direct flight from Malaysia to Phuket.

Dear Kim, Good day. Both Malaysia and Canada are not low risk or medium risk countries per publication of the Ministry of Public Health. So you cannot qualify for the Phuket Sandbox program even if you are vaccinated or you only stay for 8 days. But that will change, perhaps middle of July or end of July, Malaysia will be considered medium or low risk at that time of your travel. Thank you.

Will the Phuket Sandbox allow people to enter without quarantine on a non-immigrant B visa? If not, is it possible to convert the Tourist Visa (or visa exemption if possible) to a non-Immigrant B without leaving Thailand? I am a US citizen,

Dear Chas, Good day. Yes, any person with Visa Exemption, TR visa or Non B visa can enter Phuket as long as you have COE and you have been vaccinated starting July. You must enter Phuket internationally through Singapore, Doha or Dubai (not through Bangkok). You must also stay in an accredited hotel for at least 7 days. You can travel around the island of Phuket during these seven days. Thank you.

If i have a non-immigrant B visa, can I purchase health insurance good for only 1 month?

Dear Ariane, Good day. For those arriving in Thailand or entering Thailand, the required validity of your COVID Insurance, it must cover the whole duration of your stay. So if your Non B visa is valid for 90 days, you must purchase at 90-day COVID insurance . If the validity is 6 months, you must also buy 6 months insurance. Thank you.

What if upon arrival in Thailand my visa is only valid for 1 month, it means I only have to buy the health insurance for a month?

Dear Ariane, Yes, you need to buy 1 month COVID 19 insurance and also provide an exit flight that coincide with the expiry of your visa or expiry of the insurance policy. Thank you.

Hi Rex Pls let me know how many night and day to stay quarantine. Bc I saw some hotel packages are 15nights & 16days but some is 14nights & 15days. thanks,

Dear Minge, Good day. The minimum requirement is 14/15 days. It depends on the hotel you have chosen. Some hotels are required by MOPH to offer 15 days or 16 days and some hotels are only required to have 14 days. Just choose what the hotel is offering as a package. You cannot request a hotel to lower it 14 days if they are offering 15-day package. You can choose another hotel that offers 14-day package if you want that package. There’s more than 130 ASQ hotels in Bangkok. Thank you.

Hi. I have e – Tourist visa for 60days. I want to expand tourist visa for more 30days. Were I have to go to do it Bangkok 1. Immigration Bureau? 2. Immigration division 1? Or in all this places i can expant my visa?

Dear Viktorija,

Good day. You can apply for the 30-day extension at any immigration office in Thailand. If you are residing or currently staying in Bangkok, you need to visit the Muang Thong Thani Satellite Immigration office. Thank you.

What are my chances of getting another visa extension after being able to extend my TR visa twice? First, I was granted 30 days extension then the immigration officer offered 60 days extension due to Covid ending on June 27, 2021. When the Covid outbreak worsen in the Philippines last April, Philippine government set a policy to only allow 1500 inbound passengers prompting the airlines to limit their flights. When am about to fix my flight after being cancelled, I learned that Philippine Airlines had already closed their flights for the month of June and July. I have no clue how my visa extension will come out when i apply for the third time and that’s what i worry about.

Dear Chris, Good day. Please check with us in June about the COVID extension if it is extended or not. Right now, this program is only available until May 29th. Let’s see if you can extend it again in June. I recommend for you to call PAL to book a flight in June. Thank you.

I am in Bangkok and due to fly back to the Philippines on June 30. My visa though is only until June 27 and while i plan to apply for extension given that i already had two visa extensions, I am not too certain if i will be accommodated. This time if possible, to be allowed to stay for 3 days, just until my flight is sufficient. I just dont want to have a record that i overstayed.

Dear Chris, If you have no plan to return to Thailand for good, you can overstay for 3 days and pay the overstay fine at the airport. If you have plans to return to Thailand after your trip in the Philippines and returning as tourist, then we recommend for you, not to overstay even for a single day. Thank you.

Dear Chris, I have travelled to Thailand , got my COE and finished my quarantine. I need to fly to China for work. Now the visa office informed, I need to stay in Thailand for more than 2Months, befire they can issues my visa. What am I to do now?

Dear Lizette, Good day. You can apply for the COVID 19 extension at any immigration office. This will give you 60 days stay from the date of application. So I recommend to go to immigration office when your current visa or permit to stay is expiring. Thank you.

Can you please inform me what a good website is for updated travel restrictions within Thailand?

Dear Uschi, Good day. Yes, you can definitely check this page: https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/thailand-travel-restrictions You may also sign up for our weekly updates. Thank you.

It didnt come easy. PAL rejected my requests couple of times but am happy to inform you that I was finally accommodated on their June 30 flight. My only worry now is my visa expires 3 days earlier than my flight. I dont want to have any record of overstaying. Just want to consult if you think Thai Immigration would grant me at least 3 days visa, just up until my flight. Am praying hard now that my flight wouldn’t get cancelled anymore. Thinking about my situation is giving me unnecessary stress.

Thank you in advance for being available and sharing your expertise.

Dear Chris, I am not sure if you are in Thailand now or are you already in the Philippines. If you are already in the Philippines and your flight to Thailand is June 30th and your Thai visa is until June 27th, you will not be able to get a COE based on that visa. You may have to get a COE based on visa exemption. Thank you.

Hi, I will be flight to Bangkok on 1 May and already get the ROC approval from the Hong Kong Thai Embassy, however, the flight schedule no was changed but on the same date of arrival, I tried to log in to amend the ROC but iot showed that it was approved which cannot be amended any information, may I know that how should I do ? is it necessary to amend the flight NO

Dear Ben, Good day. The COE has the remarks number stating that if your flight was canceled or delayed and you have a new flight within 72 hours from the original flight and all your other documents are updated, you can use the same COE. Thank you.

Hi I was going to fly Thailand on apr 20th but it turns out i am Covid positive. I have to stay isolated 2 weeks at home. What are the requirements for people that has already Covid? You know PCR remains positive even if you can not transmit the illness… Should I quaratine? Thanks

Dear Fabian, You can travel to Thailand only when you test negative. People who recovered from COVID 19 will test negative afterward. That is the way to say they have recovered. Thank you.

Hi Fabian, what ended up happening in your situation. Were you allowed to enter with a certificate of recovery or did you have to wait until you tested negative?

Hi .. i just want to ask .. My friend want to travel in DUBAI UAE .. right now shes in thailand did bnkok thaild requires 100,000 usd for health insurance even she will do exit in the country? And she have already travel health insurance here in dubai .. hope u will answer my question . Thanks

Dear Mariel, A Thai national does not need a travel insurance when she returns to Thailand. If your friend is not Thai and she will return to Thailand, she needs to have 3 to 6 months COVID insurance for Thailand. Thank you.

My husband plans to travel this May, he is a dialysis patient does ASQ hotels provide dialysis treatment for 2 days? He is done with his covid vaccine.

Dear Mae, Good day. I recommend for you to contact with the ASQ Hotel if they can arrange this special request. They might be able to arrange it with the partner hospital. Thank you.

I’m married to a Thai national but I reside in the UK (I’m British), my wife is in Thailand (Isaan). I’m hoping to travel out there in October this year 2021 and would like to ask, will I be permitted to travel to Isaan to see her and spend a few weeks there?

Thanks Andre

Dear Andre, Good day. Yes, you will be permitted to see your family in Isaan. if you are staying less than 45 days in Thailand, you may opt to get the visa exemption of 45 days which you may extend for 30 in Thailand. You only need to apply for the COE or certificate of entry from the Thai Embassy. The main requirements are bank statement, return flight within 45 days, ASQ hotel booking for the quarantine of either 7 or 10 days, COVID 19 travel insurance for Thailand and the COVID test before your flight. The processing time for the COE will take a couple of days.

You may download our Free Guide on How to Enter Thailand on this link: https://www.siam-legal.com/legal-guide/how-to-enter-thailand-2021-guide.pdf Thank you.

My Mom is a Thai citizen will she have to self isolate at the hotel or we can self isolate ourselves at home? Because we have not enough money to pay that hotel fee for 14 days. What should we do?

Dear Jimmy, For the Thai national, when applying for the COE to return to Thailand, you will be given an option to quarantine in a hotel paid by yourself or quarantine in the facility provided by the government (usually it is a hotel classroom or a hotel also). No, you cannot quarantine at home. You must do it in designated areas for 10 days. Thank you.

Hi, Can i convert my non immigrant o type visa into non-immigrant B type visa without leaving Thailand? Is there any relaxation in this case due to covid?

Dear Vishakha, Good day. At this time, if your non immigrant O visa is a dependant visa or guardian visa or volunteer visa, it is not possible to change it into a Non Immigrant B visa within the country. If it is a Non O visa under retirement or under marriage visa, there will be a possibility that it can be changed into a Non Immigrant B visa at Bangkok Immigration office. Thank you.

My mum is a Thai resident living in England, my sister and I are British citizens. We’ve had bad news about a family member and we are desperate to go over as soon as possible this would not be for tourism, strictly personal agenda. What can we do?

Dear Alex, Good day. You may enter Thailand under visa exemption. Please check this page as your guide on how you can travel to Thailand right now: https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel-to-thailand/how-to-travel-to-thailand-in-2021 Thank you.

Hi there, I am a visitor from Indonesia, and I entered Thailand under the 45 day visa exemption scheme. I just finished my quarantine and plan to extend my duration of stay beyond the original 45 days. Is that possible? And what are the requirements?

Dear Lisa, Yes, you may visit the local immigration office and you may apply for a 60-day COVID 19 extension and pay 1900 THB. Thank you.

Is Thailand Safe to Travel in 2024?

• Last Updated: January 18, 2024

A detailed article answering the question: “Is Thailand safe to travel?”, including lots of safety travel advice for Thailand in Southeast Asia.

All the best parts of Thailand are constantly advertised. From the gorgeous landscapes and the delicious street food to the smiling people and the enticing culture, Thailand seems like a magical travel destination. 

Thailand is absolutely incredible, and it deserves a spot on every traveller’s bucket list . 

That being said, you should always take safety precautions when traveling somewhere new. 

The unknown can be scary, and you always want to be mentally and physically prepared for anything. 

The best way to be prepared for visiting a new country is by doing your research before you go. 

So if you are planning your first trip to Thailand and you’re wondering “Is Thailand dangerous?” or “is Thailand safe for travel?” then this article will tell you everything you need to know. 

Thailand is a very safe country for travel. Even if you are traveling alone in Thailand, you shouldn’t have any problems in the country if you are smart and constantly aware of your surroundings. Especially in tourist destinations!

In this article, you’ll learn a bit about what to expect in Thailand, as well as some general safety tips and some advice about solo travel in Thailand. 

On a side note, we always recommend getting a travel insurance policy no matter where you go. Even if a country is safe, such as Thailand, having travel insurance can save you if anything should happen.

Table of Contents

Self-Control

Rural areas, beaches and islands, avoid protests, be wary of scams, use street smarts, travel safety in thailand, health safety, safety against crime, solo travel in thailand, what to expect for safety in thailand.

Keeping all this knowledge in mind, you should be fully prepared to venture over to Southeast Asia and make the most of your time in beautiful Thailand! Here is our best Thailand travel advice.

Thai Culture

For people wondering “Is Thailand dangerous?” it is hard to answer that question with a plain “Yes” or “No”.

Every country has good and bad parts, but generally speaking, Thailand is definitely one of the safer countries in the world to travel to. 

There are three main values in Thai culture of which travelers should be aware: positivity, respect, and self-control.

If you maintain these values while traveling in Thailand, you’ll blend right in with the locals and have no issues with anyone. 

Thailand is a warm and welcoming country, where the people are friendly and the nickname “Land of Smiles” rings true. 

The positive, light-hearted, non-confrontational attitude of Thai people is central to their culture, and they generally act the same way with travelers.

Tourism is a huge source of income for the country, so most Thais happily welcome foreigners and are eager to share their culture with them. 

One of the most important values in Thai culture is respect. 

It is vital for locals to show respect to one another, including tourists. This means that tourists should always show respect to the locals in return. 

Thais maintain respect for everyone, especially for those of higher significance, like monks, doctors, political figures, the Thai King and the Thai royal family, and even elders, so travelers should do the same. 

The Thai royal family and King are very well respected in Thailand, and you’ll see photos of them everywhere.

Thais also value self-control. They avoid raising conflicts, they avoid lying, yelling, or screaming, and they never make a scene in public. 

If travelers can also control their emotions and remain calm in public situations, they will have no reason to come into conflict with anyone in Thailand. 

READ MORE: Plan your trip to Thailand with our complete list of the best things to do in the country !

Backpacker Culture in Thailand

Because international travel and tourism is such a huge part of the Thai economy, there is a huge community of backpackers and travelers in Thailand. 

Backpacker culture is very different than local Thai culture because you’ll be surrounded by lots of different nationalities rather than Thai locals. 

Here are a few aspects of the backpacker culture in Thailand of which travelers should be aware. 

Thailand is packed with cheap hostels in which travelers tend to congregate.

Staying in a communal area with lots of other travelers means there are certain precautions you must take to ensure your space is respected and your belongings stay safe. 

Safety Tips for Hostels

• Always lock your valuables in a locker or at the front desk.
• Put luggage locks on your backpacks and suitcases.
• Keep your most valuable belongings on your person (passport, wallet, camera).
• Make sure a hostel has lots of positive reviews from other travelers before staying there.
• Don’t open the hostel door for strangers.

The party scene is a massive part of the backpacker culture in Thailand. 

Especially in touristy cities, there are certain bars or clubs where all the tourists go and it won’t even feel like you’re in Thailand at all. 

You’ll definitely want to let loose and enjoy the nightlife in Thailand, but always keep your wits about you and maintain these precautions. 

Safety Tips for Partying

• Only bring as much cash as you’ll need for the night.
• Have a secure wallet or purse that you won’t lose to store your ID and cash in.
• Go out with a group of people.
• Make sure your group doesn’t leave without you.
• Make sure you know your way home.
• Never leave your drink unattended.
• Avoid getting overly intoxicated.
• Never accept drinks from strangers.

Landscape of Thailand

When considering if Thailand is safe for travel, don’t forget to consider the natural world and the landscape of the country.

Being safe while traveling means maintaining awareness of the elements as well, so make sure you know what type of environments you’ll be in before traveling to Thailand. 

Thailand has a few big cities and tourist areas, with Bangkok being the biggest and most famous. 

The major cities of Thailand are vibrant and packed with excitement, so follow this travel advice to ensure you stay safe in a big city. 

• Be aware of the air pollution in Bangkok. If you have asthma or other respiratory problems, consult your doctor before you go to ensure the air quality levels in Bangkok will be safe for you.
• Getting lost makes you feel vulnerable, so always have a map or a navigation APP on your phone in case you get lost in a big city.

When heading away from the big cities and tourist areas of Thailand, you’ll get to witness the more rural areas of Thailand and immerse yourself in real, authentic culture. 

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when traveling to rural areas of Thailand, such as the mountains, national parks, or the countryside. 

• Animals in rural areas of Thailand may have rabies, so avoid animal contact and get vaccinated before heading out there.
• Insect-borne diseases, like malaria, are more common in rural areas. Take medications if necessary and always wear insect repellant, especially when hiking or camping. 
• Always check weather updates before hiking or camping in the wilderness.
• Stick to marked paths or routes when hiking to avoid getting lost.

READ MORE: Be sure to know these great travel tips for visiting Thailand !

Thailand’s beaches are picture-perfect, and beach-lovers will have a blast island-hopping around the country. 

To make the most of your time in the Thai islands, keep these safety tips in mind. 

• Always wear sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher. The sun is extremely strong in Thailand, and a bad sunburn can ruin a trip or even make you ill. 
• Educate yourself about rip currents and how to avoid them in the ocean.
• Avoid swimming on deserted beaches alone. If there’s no lifeguard, the ocean may not be suitable for swimming. 
• Be aware of sea creatures like jellyfish and sea urchins, especially when snorkeling in coral reefs. 

General Safety Tips in Thailand

To ensure that you feel safe while traveling in Thailand, there are some general safety precautions you should take no matter where you are in the country. Even in popular tourist destinations it’s good to be aware.  

Thailand is a pretty peaceful country compared to some of its neighbors, but the occasional protest or riot can break out. 

On the off-chance that a protest turns violent, it can become an unfortunate situation to be in. 

Just avoid protest areas altogether to avoid unnecessary conflict during your trip.

If a protest breaks out in the area you are in, make plans to leave as soon as possible. Also make sure you know where your nearest embassy or consulate is just in case.

Most Thais are friendly and genuine towards tourists, but there are always rare cases of locals trying to take advantage of foreigners. 

Dishonest locals may try to scam tourists in tourist areas, not in a violent or inappropriate way, they just may try to milk a bit more money out of you. 

For example, if a stranger in the street offers you tours, discounts, shopping, or anything else, just say no. 

Most Thais are friendly, but if a random person in the street is overly friendly and a bit pushy while trying to offer you something, they are probably trying to rip you off.

Just trust your gut, say no with confidence, and only book tours with legitimate tourism companies.

As I mentioned earlier, Thailand is a very safe country to visit. Any scary scenarios discussed in this article are usually pretty rare. 

So the most useful safety tip for traveling Thailand is to use general street smarts. 

Sometimes while traveling, it feels like a fun vacation and you don’t use your head as often as you would at home. 

But maintaining good judgment, common sense, and level-headedness while traveling is usually enough to keep you safe abroad. 

Some general travel street smarts include:

• Avoid walking around alone at night.
• Know the local emergency phone number.
• Keep your passport, money, and other valuables securely stored or safely on your person at all times.
• Make copies of important documents in case you misplace one.
• Avoid any situation that makes you feel uneasy, uncomfortable or scared.
• Only book hostels, hotels, or tours that have reputable, positive customer reviews.
• Don’t share lots of personal information with strangers.

READ MORE: Here’s a great travel packing list for Thailand to get you started!

While on the road in Thailand, always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. 

This includes taking public transport in tourist areas and driving yourself. Keep these safety tips in mind while traveling through Thailand. 

• Local traffic in Thailand can be hectic, so always use caution and follow the road rules while driving to avoid road accidents.
• If you are driving a motorbike, be extremely careful. You are more vulnerable on a bike, and motorcycle accidents are common. Wear a helmet and don’t speed. 
• Stay on alert at border crossings between Thailand and its neighboring countries. Thailand is very safe, but the rare violence and conflict that does occur usually happens at border crossings. Just get through as quickly and quietly as you can and don’t linger if there’s any trouble happening. 
• Stay up-to-date on current news to avoid any problem areas. Always check if there are any political issues or natural disasters so you know where is safe to go.

Your health should always be a top priority while traveling. 

In addition to wearing sunscreen and mosquito repellant, and speaking to your doctor before leaving home about any medications or vaccinations, there are a few other health safety tips you should keep in mind in Thailand. 

Again, having a travel insurance policy is also a smart idea in case you need any medical evacuation or treatment abroad.

• Always maintain good hygiene. Wash your hands, carry hand sanitizer, and avoid unnecessary contact with others. This helps prevent the spread of germs and may save you from getting sick. 
• Make sure you listen to your body. If you feel sick or tired, take a rest day and eat healthy foods. It sucks to feel like you’re missing out on fun travel experiences, but you’ll feel better if you just let your body heal. It’s very common for travelers to get over-exhausted by packing in too much excitement, so maintain a healthy balance while traveling.
• If you do need medical care, make sure you get it. Thailand has lots of reputable health centers, but sometimes there are discounted or volunteer ones in more rural areas that aren’t as trustworthy as the official ones. 
• Stay updated on any current health crises.
• Always purchase travel insurance before a trip. Even if you think you won’t need travel insurance, you never know what will happen abroad and you always want to be covered. Things like medical evacuation can be super expensive, so insurance is a must.

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads .

For people wondering, “Is Thailand dangerous?”, you’ll be happy to know that the most common crimes in Thailand are just petty crimes like theft and robbery. 

Thailand’s local laws are very strict, and they still use the death penalty. This means any major crime may be punishable by death, so violent crime is very rare in Thailand. 

As long as you don’t break any laws when visiting Thailand and don’t make yourself a target for theft, you shouldn’t have any problems. 

Here are a few tips for making sure you stay safe against crime in Thailand. 

• Avoid theft by making sure your valuables are either locked up safe or securely stored on your person.
• Carry bags that close securely, and carry them so you can always have a hand or an eye on them.
• Don’t wear expensive jewellry or flashy accessories that make you look rich because you’ll become a target for pickpockets. Dress to blend in, not to stand out.
• While travelling on long bus or train journeys don’t separate yourself from your bags. Keep them with you at all times. 
• If you have a big suitcase that has to be stored on top of a bus, keep a smaller backpack on you with your valuables in it. 
• Drink spiking is another crime that may occur while partying in Thailand. Never accept a drink from a stranger, and always keep an eye on your own drink. 
• Avoid using any illegal drugs in Thailand. Most are illegal, including marijuana, and the penalties for using or carrying drugs can be severe.

READ MORE: As you plan your trip, check out a few great Thailand itineraries !

Thailand solo travel is a liberating and exciting experience. 

Traveling solo in Thailand should not be a problem for anyone, as long as you use all the safety tips mentioned so far in this article. 

For solo female travelers, you’ll find that Thailand is a very safe country where women are respected and treated equally to men. The same safety tips apply to men and women.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when traveling alone in Thailand.

• Stay in hostels in tourist areas if you want to meet people. It is very easy to make friends, especially at party hostels.
• If you want to party, avoid going out alone. Try to link up with people in your hostel so you have a crew to go out with. 
• If you’re a solo female traveler, stay in hostels that have female-only dorms if you prefer that. 
• Register for a smart traveler program where you can update your government on your travels abroad. This ensures the government knows where you are in case something crazy happens. For example, the USA has an online program called STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) , and many other countries have similar programs. 
• Update your friends and family back home on your whereabouts. Just letting them know where you are and where you are headed can help them keep an eye on the news and make sure everything is safe where you are.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Having lived in Thailand for nearly 20 years I hate to say you’re pretty much clueless on your assessments of Thailand and Thai culture. Just stay in your western world , you don’t seem to understand Asian or Thai cultures.

Lilith has no idea what she is talking about. She sounds bitter and she should stay in western countries.

Thailand is like any other nation where patriarchy reigns supreme, the women are objectified and gender violence thrives. Women traveling to Thailand should be extremely cautious due to human trafficking and violence in work, public and private settings. Even if reports are done, the news about the incident will never be known because “saving face” is most important in Asian culture versus taking accountability to stop barbaric behavior. Corruption is rife and if money is not to be gained by the police, and you don’t have the “right” connections to regain power for solving your case, you’re rendered a nuisance and worthless. Worse yet, some may even say it’s your karma from a past life, thus justifying the violence that is silently condoned. It’s important to have balanced dialogue for the safety of all. Many women will travel and suffer before anything is done, perhaps if a number of high profile cases make world wide attention and women globally begin speaking about it, then safety measures can be put in place. Nothing worse than being hunted, and the foreign men who travel to Thailand, many are encouraged to travel there for sex tourism. Therefore, women travelers have to be extra cautious from male locals and other travelers alike.

I agree with you completely definitely use a lot of caution and get a guide.

We feel travel with caution is always important and having a guide in certain places is better but not everywhere.Thanks for your comment.

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Thailand overall due to security and safety risks. 

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Thailand (PDF 998.61 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 1669 for medical emergencies and rescue services.

Call 1724 for an ambulance in Bangkok. 1669 Nationwide.

Call 191 for police.

Call 1155 for the tourist police.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution  in Thailand overall due to security and safety risks.

Reconsider your need to travel  to Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat provinces.

Reconsider your need to travel  to:

• Yala province,
• Pattani province, and 
• Narathiwat province

due to ongoing risks of low-level insurgent activity, including terrorism.

See  Safety .

• Road accidents are a significant cause of injury. Be alert at all times on the roads.
• Floods and severe weather can disrupt essential services during the wet season (June to November). Follow the advice of local officials.
• Scams, credit card fraud and ATM fraud are common.
• Sexual assault, assault, robbery and drink spiking can happen to tourists. Never leave your drink unattended. Stay with people you trust at parties, in bars, nightclubs and taxis.
• Anti-government protests have previously occurred in Bangkok and other areas of Thailand. The security environment can be unpredictable and turn violent. Those attending protests can face arrest or other legal consequences. Monitor local media for information on protest locations and avoid public gatherings. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.
• There's an ongoing risk of terrorist attack in Thailand. Popular tourist areas may be the target of terrorist attacks. Thai authorities have warned of possible bombings on symbolic dates or holidays. Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Reconsider your need to travel to the 3 most southern provinces of the Thailand-Malaysia border: Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat. Low-level insurgent activity continues to occur in these areas.  
• Border areas near Cambodia, Myanmar and Malaysia are dangerous due to violence, armed conflict and landmines. Pay close attention to your personal security.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Travellers have been arrested for carrying medicine they bought at a Thai pharmacy without a prescription. Get medical advice before buying medicine.
• Insect-borne diseases include malaria, Zika virus, dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and filariasis. Use insect repellent. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof as possible. 
• Animals in parts of Thailand can carry rabies. Don't ever feed, pat or tease monkeys. If you're bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey or other animal, get treatment immediately.
• Thailand has high levels of air pollution. Air pollution can make bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions worse. Check air quality levels on the World Air Quality Index .
• Medical tourism is common. Avoid discount and uncertified medical establishments. Their standards can be poor. Research medical service providers and choose with care.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include the death penalty.
• Commercial surrogacy is illegal. E-cigarettes, e-baraku, vaporisers and refills are illegal. Smoking on some beaches is illegal. Travel without carrying identification is illegal.
• Penalties for breaking the law can apply to anyone aged under 18 years. Penalties for children can include detention in a juvenile or adult prison.
• Thailand has the death penalty for serious crimes, including murder, attempted murder and rape. Crimes against the state and offences against the monarchy can also attract the death penalty. Take care not to cause offence about the monarchy, including on social media.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

You can get a visa exemption for up to 30 days on arrival (restricted to 2 entries per calendar year). The visa exemption is strictly for tourism purposes only. If your travel is not for tourism purposes, contact the nearest Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate-General to apply for the appropriate visa.

• You may be subject to biometric screening at points of entry, and restrictions may change at short notice. Check with your airline, the  International Air Transport Association (IATA)  or the nearest Thai Embassy for the latest information. 
• You can transit between international flights in Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport . Ensure that your connecting flight is booked on the same itinerary and ticket. You must remain in the transiting area in the airport.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy, Bangkok , or the  Australian Consulate-General, Phuket .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, security situation .

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

More incidents are possible.

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, stay clear and report it to Police

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Thailand-Cambodia border

Thailand and Cambodia have an ongoing border dispute. There's a risk of landmines and unexploded weapons near the Thai-Cambodian border area.

Be extra careful at tourist areas, including:

• the Preah Vihear temple - Khao Pra Viharn in Thailand
• the Ta Kwai temple - Ta Krabei in Cambodia
• the Ta Muen Thom temple - Ta Moan in Cambodia

Tourist attractions and border crossings in this area may close with little or no notice.

Thailand-Myanmar border

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

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

Armed clashes between the military and opposition 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 the news
• watch out for other signs of unrest
• pay close attention to your personal security

Thailand-Malaysia border

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

Violence includes attacks and bombings, with deaths and injuries. Since 2004, over 6500 people have been killed and many more injured in these provinces.

Bombings are often coordinated to target people who respond to the first explosion.

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.

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 bombings on symbolic dates or holidays.

Possible targets for future attacks include:

• shopping malls, markets and banks
• hotels and beach resorts
• restaurants, bars and nightclubs
• schools and places of worship
• outdoor recreation events

Other targets 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

If there is an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Gun-related violence can occur at any time.

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

On 6 October 2022, 36 people were killed in a shooting and stabbing incident in Nong Bua Lamphu province. 

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 in Bangkok and the night-time entertainment zones in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket.

Be aware of drink-spiking. Don't drink homemade or local cocktails. They can contain narcotics or poison. You're at higher risk of sexual assault and theft if you get drugged.

Never leave your drink unattended.

Stay with people you trust at parties, in bars, nightclubs and taxis.

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 Bangkok, Consulate-General Phuket, or Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra for assistance.

• 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

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information: 

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping 

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.  

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

• Kidnapping  

Tours and adventure activities

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

• scuba diving
• elephant safaris
• bungee jumping

If you plan to do an  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about 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.

Climate and natural disasters

Thailand experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• earthquakes

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
• 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
• 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.

• Thai Meteorological Department
• Mekong River Commission  — flood levels for the Mekong River

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes occur in Thailand.

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

Check with the  US Tsunami Warning Centre  for updates on seismic activity and tsunamis.

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.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers, including in terms of health and travel disruptions
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Thailand. 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.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use
• Medications

Health risks

Insect-borne illnesses.

Zika virus  is a risk in Thailand. If you are pregnant, defer non-essential travel to affected areas. Speak to your doctor before you travel. Several cases have been reported, including in Bangkok.

The Department of Health and Aged Care's  Zika virus bulletin  has advice for all travellers on how to reduce Zika virus risks. There's no vaccine for Zika virus.

Malaria  is a risk throughout the year in rural areas. The worst affected areas are near the borders with Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. 

Dengue  occurs in Thailand. It's 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

Dengue peaks in July and August although it is prevalent throughout the year. There's no vaccine or specific treatment for dengue.

Other insect-borne diseases include:

• chikungunya
• Japanese encephalitis

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
• Infectious diseases

Animals in parts of Thailand can carry  rabies .

Rabies is deadly. Humans can get rabies from mammals, such as:

• other animals

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.

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. 

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities varies. 

In an emergency, we recommend you contact an ambulance on 1669.

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

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:

Medical tourism

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

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

Some hospitals and clinics have refused to compensate 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.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed , the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

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 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. Call 1155 for English-speaking officers.

Private recreational use of cannabis is legal if the THC content is below 0.2% in weight. Cannabis use in public places remains illegal, and smoking outside is considered a public nuisance, and offenders risk fines and arrest. It is still illegal to sell or supply any extracts of cannabis containing more than 0.2% of THC.

While cannabis is decriminalised in Thailand, be aware of the next destination you are travelling to, where it may be illegal, including when transiting. This may include residual amounts of illicit drugs in your system (such as in your blood or saliva) or on items you are carrying.

Follow directions from local authorities.

• Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy laws

Commercial surrogacy is illegal.

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

E-cigarettes

E-cigarettes, e-baraku, and other related vaporisers, including refills, are prohibited. You can't import or transfer them through Thailand, even for personal use.

Producing or selling these items is illegal. You face either 10 years of imprisonment or a fine up to THB1 million, or both.

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:

• attempted murder
• 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
• gamble - other than at a few major race tracks
• make a false statement to police, including about an insurance claim

It is also illegal to smoke on beaches in tourist areas, including:

• Prachuap Khiri Khan

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

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

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

• Dual nationals

Local customs

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 and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

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.

Visas overstays

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

• 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.

• Thai Immigration Bureau

Border measures

International passengers can transit Suvarnabhumi Airport , Bangkok.

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. 

Departure from Thailand

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

• Royal Thai Embassy , Canberra
• Thai government's Facebook page

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

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.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

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

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

ATMs are available in cities and regional centres.

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

Card skimming occurs. See  Safety

Local travel

Driver's permit.

To drive a car or motorcycle in Thailand, you'll need a valid Australian driver's licence for the type of vehicle you're using.

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

You are required to have an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Don't drive any vehicles not covered by your Australian licence.

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:

• 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.

• 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.

Lawyers who can represent you are available from:

• Australian Embassy and Consulates-General in Thailand
• the Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra

If you plan to hire a motorbike, make sure:

• your insurance policy covers it
• 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. Be alert to possible  scams  and safety risks.

Be aware of apparently friendly taxi or tuktuk drivers who offer you cheap tours. They will 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.

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.

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

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

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

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call 1724 for an ambulance in Bangkok.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Bangkok

181 Wireless Road Lumphini, Pathumwan Bangkok, Thailand. 10330 Phone: (+66 2) 344 6300 Fax: (+66 2) 344 6593 Website:  thailand.embassy.gov.au   Email: [email protected]   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 Fax: (+66 76) 317 743 Website:  phuket.consulate.gov.au E-mail:  [email protected]

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

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Thailand travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Thailand travel in 2024 with official Thailand travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Since travel restrictions can vary by citizenship, we will be focusing our post on rules that affect U.S. citizens.

Last update: February 2, 2024. Originally published: November 2021.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

February 2024: “My husband and I are in Thailand for a two-month stay. There don’t seem to be any travel restrictions. Tourism is running normally, but many people still wear masks, especially in places like the metro or on ferries. Some businesses and attractions have closed since Covid. If you have asthma or other breathing issues, watch the air quality index (The Air4Thai app works well.) and plan your trip accordingly.” –  Rachel Heller of World Heritage Net , Dutch traveler

At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to Thailand so you can get a sense of what to expect.

Table of Contents

Is Thailand open for travel? Can I travel to Thailand right now?

Thailand is currently open for foreign travelers.

As of October 2022 , proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test result are no longer required from travelers. In addition, proof of vaccination is no longer required to attend crowded events. 

Travelers holding US passports can enter Thailand for tourism purposes without the need to obtain a visa for stays up to 30 days on each visit. Thailand temporarily extended this visa exemption to 45 days for arrivals previously. However, as of April 2023, visa-free entries has reverted back to 30 days.

Travelers can always extend the standard 30 days for another 30 days by applying at a local Immigration Office and paying 1900 baht.

Travelers from countries not on the visa exemption list must apply for a Special Tourist Visa (STV) to enter Thailand as tourists.

Thailand travel restrictions and limitations may sometimes apply only in certain regions. Monitor Thailand travel news here .

A new tourist fee will soon be required to enter Thailand, but the start date has been postponed as of December 2023. This fee will be built into plane ticket costs and is only about $9 US. There will be no payment on arrival if arriving by air, but it’s unclear how the fee will work at land and sea borders.

Quarantine rules in Thailand: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers who test positive for Covid while in Thailand are asked to self-isolate for at least 5 days at the traveler’s expense. However, quarantine is no longer mandatory or being enforced. 

Quarantine should end after taking a PCR test with negative result. Those with severe symptoms will be admitted to the hospital.

Can I travel to Thailand in April 2024? Can I travel to Thailand this Spring?

Travel to Thailand in April is open . Please read on for details and check back for updates.

What is it like to fly to Thailand BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport or DMK Don Mueang Bangkok Airport right now? Thai Airways reports that the face mask mandate has been relaxed. Airports can be busy at times and crowds may be difficult to avoid.

Do I have to quarantine when traveling to Thailand? No. See details above.

Does Thailand check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Health checks are no longer common for incoming travelers.

Does Thailand require a negative Covid 19 test for travelers? No. As of October 2022, a negative Covid test is no longer required.

Does Thailand require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for travelers? No. As of October 2022, a proof of vaccination is no longer required.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? No. Travelers are no longer required to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Thailand? At this time, booster shots are not required in Thailand. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

What Covid testing options are available for travelers in Thailand? PCR and antigen tests are available in Thailand. Foreign travelers can get a Covid test at the National Institute of Health, 14 Regional Medical Sciences Centers, and private hospitals in Thailand.

Covid PCR tests range from 2,500 to 10,000 Thai baht (approximately $74-$311). Test results are available within 72 hours. ATK tests are available for cheap at 711 convenience stores for 40+ baht.

See the list of Covid testing centers here.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Thailand who get the virus? Thailand’s private healthcare services are generally very good. Hospitals and clinics in Thailand are open to foreign travelers.

Treatment for Covid-19 may cost more than 100,000 Thai baht. Travelers will pay for their medical expenses or use a travel insurance.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Thailand? Restaurants, street food, malls, department stores, and other establishments are open in Thailand. Pubs, bars, karaoke outlets and other entertainment venues are now operating at their normal hours.

Are face masks required in Thailand? Wearing of masks is now voluntary in public and indoor places, except health care facilities. Some businesses may request face masks inside. 

Are buses running in Thailand? Public transportation is available in Thailand. Masks are no longer required but still encouraged. A majority of riders still wear masks on public transit, especially in Bangkok.

Will Thailand impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, most countries impose COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system might become unsustainable. Thailand has been relatively proactive when it comes to preventive Covid measures, balanced with the need to keep the tourism industry open.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Thailand?

Thailand reported its first case of Covid infection last January 2020. Although there have been outbreaks in the following months, Thailand was successful in containing the pandemic throughout most of 2020.

Unfortunately, in April 2021, the country experienced uncontrolled resurgence of infections, ranking Thailand fourth in the number of cases in Southeast Asia.

In response to the pandemic, preventive measures such as contact tracing, lockdown measures, and international travel restrictions were implemented. These slowed the country’s economy and Thailand’s tourist industry has been severely affected. Thailand’s State of Emergency ended September 30, 2022.

To revive tourism, the islands of Phuket and Samui reopened with a “Sandbox” program to vaccinated foreign travelers in July 2021. In October 2021, Thailand travel restrictions were eased for foreign travelers. In December 2021, the Test & Go program which allowed quarantine-free entry was suspended amid the spread of the Omicron variant.

In 2022, Thailand eased entry restrictions. The color-coded system, which placed limits on travel, dining, entertainment activities, and gatherings, has been removed.

Vaccinations in Thailand began at the end of February 2021. About 2/3 of the population have been vaccinated.

For the current situation in Thailand, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in Thailand; and COVID-19 testing in Thailand, please see the following Thailand Ministry of Public Health site and Facebook page .

What should you pack for safely traveling in Thailand?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are recommended in crowded public places. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Thai locals and recent travelers say about visiting Thailand now?

What is it like to visit Thailand right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect. The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

September 2023 – Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels , Australian travelers:  “We are living a nomadic retirement and arrived in Koh Samui, Thailand, in July and are staying two months. Thailand, in general, is nearly back to pre-covid tourist numbers and you can feel an optimism in the air amongst the locals. 

There are no travel restrictions here in Thailand, however, you will still see many locals wearing facemasks. Hospitals and some medical clinics are advertising Covid testing so it is accessible if required. There are certain tourist areas where you can visually see the aftermath of Covid i.e. deserted hotels that have fallen into disrepair, closed restaurants, etc., but in general, you will have no problems finding accommodation, restaurants selling great Thai food, massages, or shopping opportunities. It is now heading into the monsoon season here in Koh Samui so we have seen a huge reduction in tourists.”

May 2023 – Nat Deduck of Love and Road , Brazilian digital nomad: “I’ve been living in Phuket, Thailand for a year. Tourism in Thailand is back to normal, and apart from some Thais wearing masks, you probably won’t even remember that covid existed here. An interesting fact is that local Thais used masks way before the pandemic, so it’s a habit that got intensified after Covid.

Thailand’s tourism is in full swing. This high season (Dec-March) felt as busy as back in 2019 when we were here before Covid. Attractions, hotels, and places to visit are fully open and ready to service tourists.

Most tourists don’t wear masks, but if you feel the need to do so it’s available in every pharmacy, supermarket, and convenience shop. The same for the Covid tests, you can do it by yourself, or you can go to any clinic or hospital to do a PCR test if needed. Hospitals are back to regular services here in Phuket and Bangkok, my husband and I had to see a doctor and everything went smoothly. There was no restriction to be treated because of the pandemic, and no overflow covid cases.”

February 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We flew to Bangkok from Vietnam. Air Asia did not check our onward flight nor ask for any Covid documentation, only passports. Masking on the plane was not required but many wore face coverings, including all the crew.

Immigration wasn’t too long a wait at DMK in the evening. Just showed passport, boarding pass, took a photo, and fingerprints. At the moment, U.S. passports get 45 days in Thailand without a visa.

We later flew from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, took a bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, and flew out of Chiang Mai to Vietnam . Thai airports were playing recorded announcements advising passengers to mask and socially distance, though it wasn’t enforced.

The entire building where we stayed in Bangkok required masks in common areas. On BTS public transit, an announcement is made in English that mask laws have relaxed but face coverings are still highly encouraged. At least 90% of passengers wear masks on public transit.

In Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, we also saw notices recommending Covid precautions at certain establishments, many had hand sanitizer available at the entrance, however, we didn’t encounter any strict requirements.

Thailand seems back to normal and getting more busy with the influx of Chinese tourists returning. Businesses are open without restrictions. A lot of people wear surgical masks outside in Thailand, but masking was common pre-pandemic as well.”

October 2022 – Babs of https://mumsonflipflops.com , Belgian tourist:  “ We’re travelling in Thailand with 2 small children for 2 months. Travel feels completely normal in Thailand. There are plenty of tourists and hotels are busy.

There are very few Covid rules still in place. You’ll see most Thai wearing face masks at all times, but nothing is expected or enforced. As a tourist, you don’t have to wear one. The one exception is on the Air Asia flight, you’re supposed to wear a mask there. Every store/building has a temperature scanner (hand scanning) and sanitizer that you’re expected to use. We haven’t been into contact testing etc as we’re fully vaccinated and all entry rules have been lifted for Thailand (we weren’t even asked for our vaccination proof).”

September 2022 – Steffi of BeachBumAdventure , expat in Thailand:  “ Tourism is slowly coming back to Thailand and the locals are really keen for tourists to return.

In Bangkok you will still find many Thais wearing masks, even outdoors, although this is no longer a government requirement. On public transport most people are still wearing masks on trains and minivans and buses. In other areas of the country and on the islands, you rarely see people wearing masks. 

Many hotels and restaurants are welcoming visitors although some ferry schedules are still reduced due to the low number of visitors. On quieter, less touristy islands some restaurants and shops still remain closed.

Healthcare in Thailand is very efficient if you attend a private hospital, therefore I recommend making sure your health insurance covers this. Many 711 shops offer ATK tests very cheaply (40+ baht) although PCR tests remain expensive (2000+ baht).”

July 2022 – Tania of Slower Travels , digital nomad from New Zealand: “My partner and I lived as digital nomads in Phuket, Thailand for four months in 2022. Now is a great time to visit Phuket. Everything is a little on the quiet side with reduced tourist numbers but the locals are so welcoming and happy to see you.

When we arrived, there was extensive requirements and testing involved. By the time we left, most of these had been dropped. However, most people are still wearing masks in crowded places, giving a feeling of safety.”

May 2022 Linnae – American traveler with family: “We really lucked out with our arrival to Bangkok scheduled for May 1st. We had originally planned to undergo the Test & Go program but they suddenly lifted the testing and quarantine requirements.

Applying for a Thailand Pass online, which is essentially the entry visa, was a straight forward process where you just have to complete the application, provide your vaccination details, and upload pictures of your shot records, passport, and insurance card. We have regular American-style insurance through Aetna, so it covered whatever the minimum requirement was. I think there was an option to purchase some sort of travel health insurance through a Thai company.

It took about 5 days to receive the Thailand pass, which was just a QR code attached to an email. Once we had the Thailand pass, we never had to show any other form of insurance or Covid vaccination when we went through immigration. The hotel check-in was completely normal- no extra documentation required other than our passports.

Our daughter did not have to test on arrival. As a minor, she was able to enter unvaccinated with vaccinated parents. There was an option to add her to our Thailand Pass in the system. She received her own QR code for immigration.

EVERYONE was still masked, inside and outside (even in the pool). I was surprised to see children younger than 2 wearing masks. Outliers would have been the odd westerner. Social distancing did not seem to be a requirement at all.

Restaurants/sites seemed open as usual. Closures due to Covid may not be clear on the business website. So if someone is set on a specific excursion or destination, contact the place ahead of time to make sure it is still open.”

March 9, 2022 – Kristel, U.S. traveler:  “My husband and I have been in Thailand since the start of 2022. In Bangkok, the typical hustle and bustle of the city feels similar to pre-covid days. Street food markets such as Chinatown is packed with both locals and foreigners while the temples are still fairly quiet depending on the time you visit. 

With regards to restrictions, masks are still worn both indoors and outdoors and temperature checks are imposed when going into indoor spaces. Healthcare is easily accessible and rapid tests can be bought at a local 7-11 for very cheap. While a lot of restaurants have shut down, there are still plenty of good options and street food areas are staying busy and doing well. If visiting the islands, you can expect beautiful beaches without the crowds.”

February 11, 2022 – Abigail of I’m going on an adventure , British tourist: “My partner and I are currently travelling through Thailand for one month. We are in Phuket at the moment. Food and transport options are good with everything open and actually the area seems to have been revamped since a few years ago; its cleaner and better organised!

All areas are open and ready to receive guests. Face masks are still required to be worn however in the more populated tourist areas such a Patong no one seems to be using them as much. There is no contact tracing or daily testing required (except official PCR test). It’s always important to carry a face mask as some restaurants and activities will ask to have them on but in general the island so far has been very relaxed! The country still isn’t as busy as pre-covid which actually makes it an even better time to visit as it’s less crowded but there is still a nice holiday vibe.”

January 28, 2022 – Katy, American digital nomad:  “ During our visit to Chiang Mai, we found that most businesses and restaurants in the Old Town area are open. Some are temporarily closed or have reduced hours, but enough were open that it wasn’t a problem. Bars are technically closed. Be aware that you can’t purchase alcohol at restaurants and stores after a certain time in the Chiang Mai province, I believe it’s 9pm now (but it keeps changing).

Travel restrictions are being followed closely by locals and visitors for the most part. Mask wearing and temperature checks are required at all businesses & shops and people do follow these rules. Contact tracing is also required (by scanning an app or signing a register), but we found that most people didn’t bother with this step.

The one exception is at the Chiang Mai Sunday market. Contact tracing (along with mask wearing and temperature scans) are firmly enforced there. Most of the Chiang Mai markets and walking streets are open, except for the Saturday Walking Street (which is closed) and the Night Bazaar (which is mostly closed and not worth visiting). There were some other foreigners in Chiang Mai but not many.

The city is used to having a larger number of tourists, so it didn’t feel too crowded and we didn’t have any issues with waiting in lines or securing tickets to popular attractions. Access to healthcare is easy and affordable in Chiang Mai (at least compared to what we’re used to in the United States). Booster shots are available to anyone (including foreigners) and you can get a PCR test for travel at the Chiang Mai Ram Hospital.”

January 2022 – Zoe Adventura , Australian:  “ I moved to Thailand with my family in January 2022. The biggest difference between here and Australia is that everyone is expected to wear a mask all the time. Even children, and even while exercising. Most tourists don’t. Most people seem relaxed about everything, but occasionally we hear that the hospitals are full – which is pretty scary.

Travel restrictions – there are quite a few hoops to jump through to get to Thailand . We came for the Phuket Sandbox – which meant we had to book a 7 day stay in a government approved sandbox hotel, have a specific insurance paid for, and also get RT-PCR tests before travel, plus 2 more in the first week. During this week we were free to travel around Phuket. For us, it was actually pretty seamless.

Before entering Thailand you need to get a Thaipass, which can be a bit tricky, but there is plenty of information online about what you need to do. There are facebook groups which can help with any questions, and you can apply multiple times if you need.

As far as things being closed, the tourist areas of Phuket are completely different. Patong has restrictions on nightlife and alcohol service is restricted. A lot of shops are closed and boarded up in Patong, which is sad to see. On the other side of the island which typically has less tourism, it’s much less noticeable. That being said, the hotel we are currently staying in is clearly operating on skeleton staff, with half of the rooms empty. I’ve only seen 3-5 other guests, and it is a little creepy. The staff are obviously doing the best they can but the common areas are neglected. Same story in the last hotel we stayed in. All activities are cancelled, kids club is closed etc.”

December 2, 2021 – Katy, American digital nomad, A Rambling Unicorn :  “My husband and I flew from Istanbul to Phuket on Nov. 27 and then will fly to Chiang Mai on Dec. 4 when our stay in the Sandbox is complete. We have Tourist Visas and will be in Thailand for 60 days.

I arrived at the Phuket Airport in November 2021 and was amazed at the thorough measures put into place for international arrivals. All passengers were initially seated in an arrivals hall in chairs that were spaced apart for social distancing. After a check of our documents by workers covered in full PPE, we were led through 5 different stations that verified our documents and administered a PCR test on-the-spot. We were glad we had printed all of our documents out in advance – including our Thai Pass, PCR Test results and SHA+ Hotel booking. Passengers without printed copies had to print them out at a special printing station.

Thai locals take COVID very seriously. Everyone wears masks in public, even when riding open-air motor scooters. Contact tracing is managed via the MorChana app which everyone is encouraged to download. We are staying in a remote part of Phuket where some restaurants are still closed and our hotel is only half full. We haven’t encountered any lines at restaurants or crowds in this part of the island, quite the opposite actually.

Thailand is really particular about the COVID insurance. When we first applied for the COE (this was the precursor to the Thai Pass), we tried to use our World Nomads insurance and it was rejected. I’ve heard anecdotally that they only accept COVID insurance from Thai companies. I don’t know if that is true and/or if things are relaxed now that they’ve moved to the Thai Pass. When we re-applied, we bought insurance through a Thai company that specialized in Thai Pass and Tourist Visa insurance. It came with document that clearly stated COVID was covered with a coverage of 50,000 USD.”

Thailand Reopening: Phuket Sandbox Updates video published October 29 2021 See what it’s like in Phuket, with commentary from local Thai people in the tourism industry as well as recent travelers to Phuket:

Planning a trip to Thailand?

Check out our other Thailand travel resources: – Things We Would (and Wouldn’t) Do Again in Chiang Mai, Thailand – Bangkok Tourist Pass Review and Suggested Itineraries – Review: Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary + Hill Tribe Homestay – Tips for Travel in Bangkok

If you have questions or updates about travel to Thailand during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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