You’ve probably heard about the recent clampdown on foreign businesses operating illegally in Thailand, in Phuket in particular. Indeed, local police noted that there are in excess of 400 business operating as “nominee companies”. But what exactly does this mean. How can a business that… Read More
Gun Ownership in Thailand: Laws, Enforcement & the Black Market
In the past few years, Thailand has experienced three horrendous mass shootings. A soldier of the Royal Thai Army committed the first, in 2020. He killed 30 people and wounded 58 others before he was eventually shot and killed (1). In 2022, the Nong Bua… Read More
The Justice System in Thailand: Arrest, Representation, Trial & Prison
Foreigners in Thailand are subject to the same laws and legal procedures as Thai citizens. However, the process of arrest, trial, and conviction for foreigners may differ slightly from that of Thai citizens. One thing that certainly differs is incarceration itself. Thai jails are very… Read More
Thailand’s Military Service – How the Draft Works
Under Thailand’s 1954 Military Service Act, all Thai men, in the year they turn 21-years-old, must register for the military service draft. The conscription is held in April each year and takes the form of a lottery, unless you volunteer. Military service is still valued… Read More
Divorce in Thailand – A Spouse’s Guide
Marriages do go sour. In fact, Thailand’s divorce rate is high, at 39%. Compare that to the UK and Australia, both of which sit at 33%. Thailand isn’t as bad as the US, though, where the rate is a whopping 45% (1). Now you know… Read More
Cannabis Law in Thailand: A Guide to Growing & Smoking Marijuana
Thailand’s Marijuana laws have evolved dramatically in recent times. What was once considered an illegal drug, unsafe for society, is now legal, mostly. Thailand approved the decriminalization of cannabis, agreeing that the Health Ministry drop cannabis from its list of controlled drugs. Health Minister Anutin… Read More
Same Sex Marriage in Thailand: The Law & Your Options
Due to its warm climate and numerous beautiful beach locations, Thailand remains one of the most popular marriage destinations. Despite this, Thai law currently doesn’t recognize same-sex marriages, civil unions, or domestic partnerships. This may come as a surprise to some, considering that Thailand is… Read More
Thailand’s Sim Card Tracking Scheme – A 12-Point Guide for Tourists
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission’s (NBTC) plans to boost national security by approving in principle a plan to issue special sim cards to foreign tourists so they can be tracked via their mobile phones. As well as visa overstayers, the NBTC said it could… Read More