Customs Matters


The following are prohibited imports, and must not be brought into Thailand:
  1. Obscene objects.
  2. Harmful, habit-forming drugs. Thai law is very strict on carriers or dealers in illegal drugs.
  3. Goods unduly bearing a brand or design in the form of the national flag or the national flag color stripes.
  4. Pirated goods, e.g. audiotapes, music tapes, videotapes, VCDs, DVDs, and other goods reproduced or modified from those under the copyright of others.
5. Counterfeit goods.

       If you need to bring any prescription medications with you, be sure to bring a copy of your doctor’s prescription, as the Customs Department in Thailand is very tough on the import of prohibited or restricted drugs. If you have any suspicion that the drug that you are bringing into Thailand may be prohibited or restricted, do not bring it, or if you must, bring a letter and prescription from your physician explaining why it is necessary for you to bring it. Drugs containing codeine, ephedrine, pethidine, etc. are commonly available over the counter in some countries, but may be prohibited or restricted in Thailand. Once in Thailand, you can undergo a medical examination, and, if necessary, get a prescription for the appropriate drug(s) from a local physician. Drugs required for emergency purposes (e.g., for asthma or heart ailments) should be documented with a letter and prescription from your physician.