UK Foreign Office Urges Travelers to Thailand to Adhere to New Laws

In an urgent advisory issued on July 12, 2025, the United Kingdom's Foreign Office cautioned British holidaymakers planning to visit Thailand to familiarize themselves with new legal regulations aimed at ensuring public safety and order. The advisory comes in response to an alarming rise in unruly behavior among tourists, prompting the Thai government to implement stricter measures concerning activities such as gambling, smoking, and possession of certain items, including e-cigarettes and vapes.

The new guidelines draw attention to a zero-tolerance policy on illegal gambling, which is strictly prohibited in Thailand. According to the Foreign Office, "Taking part in such activities could result in detention or imprisonment," emphasizing that the country does not have legal casinos and strongly opposes underground gambling operations. Furthermore, the advisory warns against carrying more than 120 playing cards, which is considered illegal under Thai law.

In addition to gambling restrictions, the Foreign Office highlighted that smoking in public spaces is illegal, with fines up to 5,000 baht (approximately £114). The use and possession of e-cigarettes and vapes have also been criminalized, with tourists advised that simply having these items could lead to significant penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment.

Travelers are also warned against bringing cannabis out of Thailand, as recent incidents have seen British nationals arrested while attempting to transit through airports with illegal substances. The Foreign Office noted, "Many international airports have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items, which may be used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers."

Detainees in Thailand face harsh conditions, as stated in the advisory: "Conditions in prisons and other detention facilities in Thailand are harsh, with limited access to healthcare. Detainees have died in custody." These remarks serve as a stark reminder for travelers to be vigilant and respectful of local laws.

The advisory also covers specific safety tips, urging tourists to monitor their drinks closely to avoid incidents of sexual assault, which can occur in crowded tourist areas. Additionally, the Thai government has introduced regulations regarding drone usage, requiring travelers to register their drones with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) within 30 days of arrival. Non-compliance could result in fines up to 100,000 baht (approximately £2,281) or imprisonment.

Historical context reveals that the rise in tourist-related disturbances has prompted a series of legal reforms in Thailand. Recent incidents involving British tourists, such as a 30-year-old who tragically died following a drug-related incident and another who was sentenced to 21 years for human trafficking, have underscored the necessity for stringent regulations.

Experts have weighed in on the implications of these regulations. Dr. James Thompson, an anthropologist at the University of London, stated, "The shift in Thailand's legal framework reflects a growing concern about maintaining social order amidst the influx of tourists. The government aims to balance its economic reliance on tourism with the need for public safety."

Travel industry representatives, such as Michael Davidson, CEO of TravelSafe Ltd., expressed concerns about the potential impact on tourism. "While it is crucial to ensure safety, excessive regulation may deter visitors, impacting local economies that depend on tourism revenue," he remarked.

As the summer travel season approaches, the Foreign Office strongly encourages British nationals to remain informed and adhere to local laws to avoid severe repercussions. Travelers are advised to regularly check the Foreign Office's travel advice and stay updated on local regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday experience in Thailand.