TH Pre-Departure Notice for Traveling to Thailand

Time Zone

  • Thailand is 1 hour behind Taiwan.

 Cultural and Legal Etiquette

  • Thailand is a constitutional monarchy. Visitors should respect local customs and show reverence to the Thai Royal Family. During royal events, observe how locals behave and follow accordingly.
    Do not comment on the Thai monarchy or its members — doing so is a serious offense under Thai law and can result in severe punishment.

  • About 70% of Thais are devout Buddhists, and Thai laws have specific regulations regarding religious offenses.
    When visiting temples, show respect and strictly follow all temple rules.

  • Temple Etiquette:

    • Remove your shoes before entering.

    • Wear modest clothing (sleeved tops and bottoms that cover the knees).
      Most temples provide traditional cover-up clothing at the entrance — please wear them if needed.

    • Do not touch Buddha statues or make disrespectful poses for photos.

  • Do not touch people’s heads, especially children — this is considered highly disrespectful.

  • Alcohol Sale Restrictions:
    Alcohol can only be sold or consumed during the following times:
    11:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM (midnight).

  • Thai Greeting:
    Thais typically greet each other with the “wai” gesture (palms pressed together); handshakes are uncommon.

  • Gambling is strictly prohibited in Thailand — do not play mahjong or card games in hotels.

  • When the Thai national anthem is played (e.g., in public spaces), stand still and do not remain seated.

  • Tipping Culture:
    Tipping is customary in Thailand. Use paper bills only — giving coins is considered disrespectful, as they are typically given to beggars.

  • Tourist Police:
    Available 24/7 throughout Thailand.
    Dial 1155 toll-free for assistance.

  • Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Thailand:
    Tel: +66 2670 0228

 Prohibited & Restricted Items

The following are strictly prohibited from import/export:

  • Narcotics and controlled drugs (e.g., heroin, morphine, opium, cocaine, cannabis, amphetamines)

  • Counterfeit goods, pirated items, animal specimens, endangered species, or other contraband

  • Buddha images, religious artifacts, antiques

  • Weapons, ammunition, explosives, and knives

  • Live plants and animals

  • Medicines and chemicals

  • Telecommunication equipment

  • Hookahs, cigars, and alcoholic beverages

  • E-cigarettes are illegal in Thailand

Duty-Free Allowances (No Declaration Needed)

Per Thai Customs regulations, duty-free allowances include:

  • Alcohol:
    Up to 1,000cc (applies to all alcoholic substances, including solids and concentrates)

  • Personal Goods:
    Value must not exceed 20,000 Thai Baht

  • Tobacco Products:

    • Cigarettes: Maximum 1 carton (10 packs or 200 sticks) per person

    • Cigars or tobacco (including chewing or smoking): Maximum 250 grams

    • If mixed (e.g., cigarettes + cigars + tobacco), total weight must not exceed 250 grams

    • Unfinished cigarettes must have unbroken tax seals if brought back out of the country

  • Currency:

    • Travelers must carry at least THB 20,000 per person or THB 40,000 per family (or equivalent in other currencies) upon entry

    • Exiting Thailand: May carry out up to THB 50,000

    • Traveling to neighboring countries (Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Vietnam): Limit is THB 500,000

    • Any foreign currency exceeding USD 20,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

 Declaration Required (Red Channel)

The following must be declared and may require approval:

  • Alcohol: Over 1,000cc

  • Personal Goods: Value exceeds THB 20,000

  • Tobacco: More than 1 carton or exceeding 250g (including unfinished packs)

  • Currency:

    • Carrying more than THB 50,000 out of the country

    • Carrying over USD 20,000 (or equivalent in any foreign currency) in or out of Thailand

Controlled Items (Require Prior Approval & Declaration)

May be allowed with authorization and after customs declaration:

  • Medications and dietary supplements

  • Cosmetics

  • Plants

  • Animals

  • Firearms

  • Drones

Declaration Process

  1. Use the Red Channel at the airport.

  2. Present all items for customs inspection.

  3. Customs officers will assess value, calculate taxes and applicable fees.

  4. Pay the required taxes and duties.

Important Reminders

  • Alcohol and tobacco are regulated items.
    If you exceed allowed quantities without valid permits, the items may be confiscated, and you may be fined or prosecuted.

  • Group travelers: If buying cigarettes or alcohol, each person must carry their own purchases (with separate receipts) to stay within individual limits.

  • Thai Customs has full authority to inspect luggage inside and outside the airport at any time.
    Violations may result in seizures and fines according to law.

  • Customs may determine whether the quantity of tobacco products is reasonable, especially when children are involved.
    For example, if traveling with 2 minors, bringing only 1 carton of cigarettes is recommended.

(The information above is based on the latest guidelines from the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Thai Customs.)