Online casinos are currently illegal in Thailand under the Gambling Act B.E. 2478 (1935), though the government proposed amendments in February 2025 to permit authorized online gambling (1). The proposed amendment defines online gambling as activity via computer or electronic systems through the internet or remote communication, prohibiting it unless authorized by competent authorities. Anyone organizing unauthorized online gambling faces imprisonment for seven to twelve years, while participants risk one to three years imprisonment (1).
Land-based casinos remain illegal throughout Thailand, with only state-run lotteries and licensed horse racing permitted under current law (2). The cabinet approved the Entertainment Complex Bill in January and March 2025, proposing legalization of casinos within integrated resorts comprising hotels, shopping malls, and theme parks. The draft law limits casinos to 10 percent of total resort space and requires Thai nationals to pay a 5,000 baht entry fee plus demonstrate three years of tax filing history (2).
"Organizing, participating in, or engaging in any type of online gambling is prohibited unless authorized by the competent authority."
The proposed casino legislation allocates five licenses initially, with planned locations in Bangkok, Phuket, Chonburi, and Chiang Mai, subject to parliamentary approval postponed until July 2025. The government projects casinos could generate up to 100 billion baht annually in revenue and increase tourism by 5-10 percent (2). Despite government support, opinion polls reveal 69 percent of Thais oppose online gambling legalization and 59 percent oppose land-based casinos, citing concerns about social harm and gambling addiction (2).
Source:
https://www.tilleke.com/insights/thailand-seeks-comments-on-draft-amendment-to-permit-online-gambling/
http://report.dopa.go.th/laws/document/2/216.pdf
Last updated: 13-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
