Thailand

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 191 for police.
• Dial 1669 for ambulance.
• Dial 1300 for toll-free domestic violence hotline.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues.  They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Crimes of opportunity, such as pick-pocketing, bag-snatching, and burglary, occur in Thailand.

• Violent crimes against foreigners are rare, however, murders, rapes, and assaults against foreigners do occur.
• Bar tab scams occur in Thailand.  Some bars and entertainment venues overcharge for drinks and cover charges. They may threaten violence if you don't pay.
• Scams involving gems, city tours, entertainment venues, and credit cards are common, especially in tourist areas.
• Rental scams occur in Thailand. Many rental motorbikes, jet skis, and car companies will hold your passport until you pay for real or fictitious damages. Do not give your passport to anyone.
• Do not carry luggage or items for other people. Always start packing with a completely empty bag and make sure no prohibited items are accidentally in your luggage.  Anything you transport may become your responsibility and could result in your arrest.

Safety tips:

• When traveling alone, exercise caution, stay near other travelers, and ensure friends or family know how to contact you.
• Taxi and “tuk-tuk” drivers may try to charge excessive fares or refuse passengers. You should either request the driver use the meter or agree on the fare beforehand.
• Use only public transportation from the airport’s official pick-up area, cars from the limousine counters, rail links (where applicable), or a car from your hotel.
• Do not hand your passport over to strangers. Self-reported visa brokers will offer to take passports on “visa runs” to neighboring countries to “stamp out or stamp in” travelers to reset their 60-day visa-free travel. They may also offer to get a visa for U.S. citizens in ways that do not conform to Thai law.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Internet romance and financial scams are common in Thailand.  Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money.  Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters.  Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Thailand:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone. 
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family.  Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.
• Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems to be too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
• Set up a phone call or video chat in the initial stages.
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
• If they ask for help, you should refer to them to the closest U.S. embassy or consulate so we can work with local authorities to assist.
• If you believe you have been scammed, report the incident to local law enforcement right away and stop all communications with the scammer.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 191 or to the Tourist Police by dialing 1155.  You can also contact the U.S. embassy at +66-0-2-205-4049 or the U.S. consulate general at +66-53-237-300.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. Local police are reluctant to become involved in domestic issues. You may call the Social Help Center hotline by dialing 1300 from any Thai phone.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS.  The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

To fly a drone legally in Thailand, you must register your device with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC).

• You must obtain specific drone liability insurance.
• You cannot fly a drone until both agencies approve and your insurance is confirmed.

GPS

GPS navigation apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it is safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained.  Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Thailand seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Lèse majesté (Royal insult) 

Making a critical, threatening, or defamatory comment about the royal family is a criminal offense, punishable by a prison sentence of up to 15 years per offense. This includes intentionally defacing images of members of the royal family (e.g. on banknotes), which may be considered a lèse majesté offense.

Prostitution is illegal

Serious consequences include criminal conviction and imprisonment, especially for child prostitution. 

Military equipment

Personal use of even non-lethal military equipment, such as protective vests and night vision scopes, is prohibited.

Illegal drugs 

Consuming or having illegal drugs carry severe penalties. 

• Expect long jail sentences under harsh conditions, heavy fines, or even execution for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs. 

• Thailand implemented a new customs policy formally classifying cannabis buds as a fineable offense. Individuals importing, exporting, or attempting to evade restrictions may face penalties of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to 500,000 baht, or both. 

• Please visit the Royal Thai Government’s Office of the Narcotics Control Board for more information. 

• Some prescription medication from the United States is not legal to possess under Thai law. Please review Prescription Medications in the Health section.

Shoplifting

• Shoplifting can result in large fines and lengthy detention followed by deportation.

Defamation laws

• Thailand has strict laws concerning publicly “defaming” or “damaging” the reputation of a person or business. This can include leaving a negative review on a public website. This is punishable with civil or criminal penalties.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.  

Detention conditions

Conditions at the Bangkok Immigration Detention Center (IDC):

Conditions in immigration detention centers (IDCs), where authorities detain foreign nationals who violate immigration laws, remain poor and most are overcrowded.

• IDCs are administered by the Thai Immigration Bureau, which reports to the Royal Thai Police (RTP). They are not subject to many of the regulations that govern the regular prison system.
• American detainees often complain of unhealthy living conditions and significant overcrowding. Personal security is poor.
• IDC facilities throughout Thailand can only provide very basic health care.
• Deportations are self-funded. It may take up to four to five weeks for Thai authorities to process a case before deportation.
• Detainees must have funds to purchase a phone card and do not have access to the internet.
• Prior approval and a security escort are required to visit a Western Union or an ATM machine.
• Please review the Department of State’s Report on Human Rights Practices for Thailand for further information.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Thailand.
• However, victims have reported that in the case of sexual crimes, police tend to downplay sexual abuse claims from gay and lesbian victims.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Thailand prohibits discrimination against people with physical, intellectual, or mental disabilities. The law is sometimes enforced.

• Sidewalks and street crossings are not suitable if you have mobility issues.
• Newly constructed buildings, facilities, and transportation equipment should be accessible by law for people with mobility issues. However, enforcement of these provisions is not uniform.
• Rental, repair, and replacement parts for mobility aids, medical equipment medical devices and service providers are available in Bangkok and other major cities. However, these are rare outside major metropolitan areas.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers 

Victims of sexual assault or domestic violence may find that Thai authorities do not handle these cases with as much sensitivity or consideration for privacy as you would expect in the United States.

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human Rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Thailand prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Thailand Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations. 
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 1669 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are not present or unreliable throughout the country in most areas except in Bangkok and other major cities.

• Congested roads and few ambulances can make it difficult for accident victims to receive timely medical attention.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Thailand. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Thailand.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Both public and private hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider.  Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in Bangkok and other major cities but health care in rural areas and on islands may be below U.S. standards.

• In Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya, good facilities exist for routine, long-term, and emergency health care. Basic medical care is available in rural areas and on islands, but English-speaking providers are rare.
• The U.S. embassy and consulate maintain a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Hospitals and doctors require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.  

• Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They don't follow the same rules. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Thailand.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Thailand.
• Although Thailand has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Thailand, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified.

Prescription medications

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Medicine for personal use: You can bring up to a 30-day supply of medication.  Do not mail medicine to Thailand without first confirming it will be allowed into the country.
• Check with Thailand Customs and the Thailand Food and Drug Administration to ensure the medication is legal in Thailand.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Thailand to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Thailand. For additional information, visit the Government of Thailand’s website.

Water quality and food safety

• In many areas, tap water is not safe to drink.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

The air quality in Thailand changes with the seasons. Seasonal smog is a problem.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Thailand.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• In recent years, the air quality in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Lampang, Nan, and Samut Sakhon have exceeded Thai and U.S. government daily standards for fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) for a portion of the year.
• In Chiang Mai and other northern provinces, annual agricultural burning, approximately February through late April, and forest fires are dangerous.  They cause days with unhealthy to hazardous air quality based on the U.S. index.
• In Bangkok, airborne dust and auto pollutants are common in the cooler, dry period from December to February). Anyone who travels where pollution levels are high is at risk.

People at the greatest risk from air pollution exposure include:

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Traffic accidents are common in Thailand. According to the World Health Organization, Thailand had one of the world’s highest traffic-related fatality rates.  Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and other major cities can have heavy traffic.

Reckless driving

Speeding, reckless passing, and failure to obey other traffic laws are common in Thailand. 

• Traffic moves on the left. 
• Some drivers move illegally against the traffic.
• Scooters and motorbikes commonly drive on the sidewalks during rush hour and other periods of heavy traffic. 
• Commercial drivers commonly consume alcohol, amphetamines, and other stimulants.  
  An International Driver’s Permit is required to drive a car or motorcycle.

Motorcycle accidents 

Riders may incur serious injuries when not wearing helmets or proper clothing and footwear. 

• Multiple U.S. citizens die each year in traffic accidents involving riders of 2- and 3-wheeled vehicles in Thailand.
• Use of motorcycle helmets is mandatory, but this law is sporadically enforced.

Safety for Pedestrians

Use a pedestrian bridge to cross the road where one is available, including in front of the U.S. Embassy on Wireless Road and on Sukhumvit Road. 

• Many pedestrians have been killed there, and several U.S. citizens have been seriously injured.
• Look carefully in both directions before crossing streets, even when using a marked crosswalk. 

In case of an accident 

• If you have a traffic accident, contact your insurance company for guidance in dealing with the other party and the police.

Traffic laws  

Driving under influence is punishable by law.

• If you are found to be intoxicated, you could be jailed for a minimum of two years and face fines.
• Bribes are illegal. If you are found guilty, you could be imprisoned for up to five years, face severe fines, or both.

Traffic fines

The following violations are also subject to a fine: 

• Lack of ID.
• Not obeying traffic laws and traffic signals.
• Driving slowly in regular lanes of traffic.

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis are generally safe but be aware of price gouging.  Use metered taxis and insist the meter is turned on. Avoid unlicensed taxis at airports.

• There are several ride-share apps, such as Grab and Bolt, that are widely used.
• Use reputable ride-share apps over street taxis when possible.
• Smartphone-based for-hire vehicle service exists in Bangkok and other large cities. Those connected with registered taxis, such as Grab Taxi, Line Taxi, and All Thai Taxi, are legal. However, their affiliated car services are under legal review.
• Share trip details with someone. Verify the driver and vehicle match your app information before entering.
• Public and commercial transportation Mass transit: In Bangkok, the Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) elevated "Skytrain," “Airport Rail Link” mass transit, and the underground Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) systems are reliable. They are inexpensive, air conditioned, and often faster than Bangkok traffic.
• Bus system: Bangkok also has an extensive bus system. However, buses can be overcrowded and are often driven with little or no regard for passenger safety.
• Cities outside of Bangkok typically have only basic public transportation and usually do not have metered taxis. In many cases, motorcycle taxis, tuk-tuks, bicycle-powered rickshaws, and pick-up trucks are the only options available for travelers without their own transport.
• Visit the website of Thailand’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Thailand meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Thailand should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings  
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

• Monsoon flooding—From May to October, you can expect heavy rainfall.  This can cause severe flooding in Bangkok, the central plains, and southern regions.
• Tropical Storms and Typhoons—From May to November, expect coastal areas along the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea to face heavy rain, flooding, and storm surge.
• Drought—From November to April, expect the dry season. It affects northeastern and northern Thailand and can cause water shortages.
• Landslides— Mountainous regions in northern and southern Thailand are at risk of landslides during heavy rainfall.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates