This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.

What legal differences should expats in Thailand be aware of?

Legal differences in Thailand Provincial laws in Thailand Expats in Thailand DTV Visa Understanding Thai laws Renting policies in Thailand Cultural differences for expats

Jul 19, 2025

2 days ago

Dawn **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I am excited that my DTV was approved a few weeks ago. I have been on a mission now to get things in order. I have a few minor items left, and I will be ready.

One of the things I am preparing myself for is understanding that laws in Thailand differ from what I likely take for granted. As foreigners in another country, we need to understand as much as we can.

Has anyone ever considered the legal differences in Thailand? Or even different laws between provinces?  I started researching them.  Here is some information I came across and compiled. I hope it's helpful to the group. 

[members only]

If I missed something, feel free to add or comment. Sharing is caring :)

336

views

likes

all likes

replies

images

users

TLDR : Answer Summary

A user shares their excitement about the approval of their DTV visa and expresses the importance of understanding legal differences in Thailand. They ask for input from others regarding the legal aspects of living as a foreigner in Thailand, noting they have compiled some research. Comments highlight specific experiences regarding bike rental regulations and general perceptions of legal variances by province.

DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

Take the basic DTV Qualification Test to see if you're eligible for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
Explore recent discussions by using the DTV Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.

Pelle Eriksson★★★★★

Absolutely Bangkok's best service I highly...

recently on Facebook

Luca G.★★★★★

I used this agency for my DTV Visa...

recently on Google

Trusted DTV Visa Agent

OVER 100,000 EXPATS SERVED

#1 VISA AGENT IN THAILAND

Siggi *******

There are no different laws between provinces,

a day ago

Dawn **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Siggi ******

from my research there can be different expectations, customs and laws. While not everything is a law that I listed, there are customs that are extremely important to follow and you can get into trouble, banned, isolated and for legal infractions jailed or fined.

All I can say is Read the info. All info come from either official Thai sites or legit/verfied sources. I’m not sure why this is a difficult topic for some. This will be my last response because the goal was not to create debate with anyone.

If you feel differently or had a different experience then that’s fine. If you disagree ignore. If you want to be safe apply as needed. If you have different info—maybe you have another source, feel free to share. I’m happy to update.

The key takeaway is you are not in your country. The laws and expectations are different so just behave accordingly.

For me, I will follow their laws and go by what I researched. I’d rather. You have liberty to follow your own concious.

19 hours ago

Reply to

Dawn **********

Dnatjugweme ************

Your whole approach is so un-Thai.

a day ago

Dawn **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Dnatjugweme ***********

how?

a day ago

Reply to

Dawn **********

Greg ********

I can assure you there is no need for a license to rent a bike in Phuket, Pattaya or Samui. There are some other glaring issues but Mr Pedant is going home at midnight in Chiang Mai :-)

2 days ago

Reply to

Greg ********

What should expats know about entering Thailand with a DTV visa?

127 comments

21 days ago

What is the process for setting up a business in Thailand as an expat and transitioning from a DTV to a Non-O marriage visa?

11 comments

2 months ago

What is the experience of traveling to Thailand with the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) from India?

13 comments

4 months ago