Are Online Casinos Legal in Thailand?
Here’s What You Should Know in 2025
September 11, 2025
Current Legal Status of Online Gambling in Thailand
The allure of online casinos is undeniable, offering a vast array of games from the comfort of home. However, for players in Thailand, the legal landscape surrounding online gambling can be confusing. Understanding the current laws is crucial, not just for compliance but also for ensuring a safe and fair gaming experience. As of 2025, although significant discussions are underway, online casinos remain generally prohibited under Thai law.
Thailand’s gambling laws are historically strict, with most forms of gambling being illegal. This includes online gambling, which is operated in a gray area, largely unregulated and untaxed. However, 2025 marks a pivotal year with the government commencing preliminary talks on the potential legalization and regulation of online gambling platforms.
This shift is closely connected to broader plans to open Thailand’s first land-based casinos by 2029, as part of larger entertainment complexes. The government aims to bring these activities under official purview to harness economic benefits and address issues associated with the vast underground gambling market.
Key Figures Involved
The initiative to explore legalizing online gambling is being spearheaded by prominent figures within the Thai government:
- Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, who also serves as the Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister, is a key proponent. He is urging various ministries to collaborate on the necessary legal amendments and regulatory frameworks.
- Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has publicly advocated for the legalization of online gambling. He believes that regulating this sector would not only generate substantial revenue through taxation but also help curb the proliferation of illegal, untaxed underground operations.
Objectives & Rationale
The primary motivations behind this potential legislative shift are multifaceted:
- Economic Benefits: Legalizing and taxing online gambling revenue could provide a significant new income stream for the government, contributing to national development and public services.
- Youth Protection & Crime Reduction: By establishing a regulated market, authorities aim to implement measures for responsible gambling, including age limits and safeguards to protect vulnerable populations, particularly the youth. This move also seeks to reduce the criminal links and illicit activities often associated with unregulated underground platforms.
Process & Timeline
The process for legalizing online gambling is in its initial stages:
- Cross-Ministerial Coordination: Deputy Prime Minister Prasert has requested various ministries to coordinate efforts to amend existing laws.
- Official Study & Regulatory Plan: An official study and a comprehensive regulatory plan are expected to be drafted within a few months. This plan will outline the framework for licensing, taxation, and player protection.
Age Limit Considerations
While discussions are ongoing, a definitive consensus on the age limit for online gambling has not yet been reached. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has proposed an age limit of 20 years and above, but this specific detail has not yet been officially debated or incorporated into policy discussions.
The push for online gambling legalization is moving in parallel with other significant legislative efforts:
- Entertainment Complex Bill: The bill to permit integrated entertainment complexes, which would house land-based casinos, is anticipated to pass the Thai parliament within 2025, with an estimated six-month timeline for passage.
- Initial Discussions on Tax Rates & Licenses: Early discussions related to land-based casinos include potential tax rates and the number of licenses to be issued. Initial proposals suggest approximately five licenses, likely to be situated in major tourist zones such as Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.
Outlook & Potential Impact
The potential legalization of online casinos in Thailand aims to have several significant impacts:
- Reduction of Illegal Gambling: By offering regulated alternatives, the government hopes to curb the illegal gambling market significantly.
- New Revenue Streams: Taxation of licensed online gambling operators would create a substantial new source of revenue for the state.
- Enhanced Tourism Industry: The development of integrated resorts with casinos and potentially regulated online platforms could further boost Thailand’s tourism sector.
- Establishment of Regulated Platforms: A regulated environment would offer players safer, more transparent, and responsible gambling experiences.
Live22 FAQ
Is online gambling legal in Thailand?
No, online gambling is generally prohibited under Thai law. However, many players still access international online casinos.
Can Thai players legally play at international online casinos?
Technically, playing at international online casinos is still against Thai law, but enforcement typically focuses more on local operators and large-scale illegal operations rather than individual players.
Will I get in trouble for playing online casino games in Thailand?
There is a legal risk associated with playing online casino games in Thailand. Many players mitigate this by using VPNs or choosing offshore platforms with a low history of enforcement against individual users.
Are there any legal forms of gambling in Thailand?
Yes, the only officially legal forms of gambling in Thailand are the government lottery and horse racing at designated tracks.
What should Thai players look for when choosing an online casino?
When choosing an online casino, Thai players should look for trusted international platforms that are licensed and regulated, offer secure payment methods, provide Thai language support, and have good customer service.
Is there any movement toward legalizing online casinos in Thailand?
Yes, in recent years, significant discussions have emerged within the Thai government regarding the potential legalization and regulation of online casinos to generate revenue and curb the black market. However, as of 2025, online casinos remain unregulated and technically illegal.