Vaping is illegal in Thailand. This law applies to both Thai citizens and visitors. It is illegal to import, sell, possess, or use e-cigarettes or vape devices anywhere in the country.
Many travelers do not know this. Some believe that vaping is allowed because cigarettes are legal. Others think they will not get caught if they vape discreetly. These assumptions are wrong.
Thai law treats vaping very seriously. Authorities can fine you a large amount of money. In some cases, you could face arrest and jail. In recent years, there have been many crackdowns. Tourists have been fined and even detained for having vape devices.
This guide explains everything you need to know about vaping in Thailand in 2025. You will learn about the laws, the penalties, and the risks. You will also find practical advice to help you stay safe during your visit.
If you vape, or are thinking about bringing a vape to Thailand, read this carefully. It could save you from serious legal trouble.
Is Vaping Legal in Thailand?
Vaping is illegal in Thailand. This includes e-cigarettes, vape pens, liquids, and any vaping accessories. It is illegal to import, sell, own, or use any kind of vaping device. The law applies to everyone. It does not matter if you are a tourist or a local resident. There are no exceptions for personal use.
The ban on vaping began in 2014. It was introduced to protect public health. Thai authorities believe vaping encourages young people to start smoking. Since then, the ban has remained in place. Attempts to legalize vaping have failed. The Thai government continues to view vaping as a serious health risk.
Police and customs officers are strict about enforcing the law. They have the power to search you. They can confiscate vaping devices. They can fine you or even arrest you. Many tourists are caught each year. Some are stopped at airports. Others are caught using vape pens in public places.
It is important to understand that even carrying a vape device can cause legal problems. You do not need to be caught using it. Simply having it in your luggage or pocket is enough to be charged.
The Law Regarding Vaping in Thailand
There isn’t a law that specifically bans vaping and the possession or use of e-cigarettes. In 2015 the Consumer Protection Board established a ban on sales and set the harsh penalties that went along with this. But the sections of law related to the ban were removed in a 2019 update to the Consumer Protection Act. So, technically the ban on sales ended in 2019.
However Section 20 of the Customs Act prohibits the import of electronic cigarettes (among other things). As this section covers the category of goods that have not had tax levied on them and therefore their possession is illegal.
And Section 42 of the Tobacco Control Act prohibits the use of e-cigarettes / vape pens etc in public.
So vaping and possession hasn’t legally been banned. But if you do have an e-cigarette in your possession then you must have brought it into Thailand illegally. And are therefore breaking the law. It’s an effective way for the government to effectively ban vaping without actually banning it.
As the only way to get off the hook would be to show proof that you had brought your vaping equipment prior to December 2014, when the new laws was enacted. In which case it was imported legally into Thailand.
And the confusing mess of laws leads to articles which claim to categorically state that vaping is either legal or illegal. For example – this from an expat website in which a lawyer claims it’s legal vs this from an English language Thai news site in which the Thai police claim it’s illegal.
Personally, I’ll go with the police’s opinion, as if you want to avoid a lengthy and expensive court case, that’s the one that matters the most.
Quick Timeline of Thailand’s Vape Ban
2014
The Thai government banned the import and sale of all vaping devices and e-liquids. The Customs Act made it illegal to bring them into the country.
2015
Thai authorities began stronger enforcement at airports and in public places. Tourists started to be fined for carrying vape devices.
2017
Thailand confirmed that possession of vaping devices could lead to arrest, heavy fines, or jail time. Embassies began warning their citizens.
2019
Some changes were made to consumer laws. However, vaping remained illegal under customs and public health laws.
2022
A proposal to legalize and regulate vaping was rejected by the Ministry of Public Health. The government said vaping was a risk to young people.
2023
There was a major increase in enforcement. High-profile arrests of tourists were reported. Police carried out large raids and seized thousands of vaping devices.
2025
Thailand continues a zero tolerance policy. More fines, arrests, and seizures are taking place across the country. There is no sign the law will change soon.
Why Is Vaping Banned in Thailand?
The Thai government banned vaping to protect public health. Officials believe that vaping can harm users and encourage young people to start smoking. Studies have shown that many young people see vaping as harmless. Thai health experts worry that this will lead to a rise in nicotine addiction. The government also says that e-cigarettes are often made with dangerous chemicals. Some liquids contain substances that can damage the lungs.
Thailand has strict public health policies. Smoking is already banned in many public places. Vaping is seen as a new threat that could undo progress in reducing smoking rates. Officials also argue that vaping products are often imported illegally. This creates problems for customs and law enforcement.
For these reasons, the government decided to keep the ban in place. Even in 2025, there is strong support among Thai officials for keeping vaping illegal.
Penalties for Vaping in Thailand
If you are caught vaping in Thailand, you face serious penalties. Thai authorities do not give warnings. They act quickly and apply the law. The most common penalty is a heavy fine. You can be fined up to five times the value of the device. In many cases, fines are around 20,000 to 30,000 Thai Baht. This is about 500 to 700 British Pounds. In more serious cases, you can be arrested. You could be charged with importing banned goods. This can lead to a jail sentence of up to 10 years.
Even if you are not using the vape, you can still be fined or arrested. Just carrying a vape device or e-liquid is enough. Tourists are not treated differently from locals. Many travelers have been fined at airports, on beaches, or in shopping malls. Police have the power to search you if they suspect you are carrying a vape. Customs officers can inspect your bags and personal items.
It is important to understand that offering money to avoid charges is also illegal. If you are caught, you must follow legal procedures. Trying to bribe an officer can make your situation worse.
Can Tourists Bring Vapes into Thailand?
Tourists are not allowed to bring vapes into Thailand. This includes e-cigarettes, vape pens, e-liquids, and any vaping accessories. Customs officers at airports have the right to inspect your luggage. If they find a vape device, they will confiscate it. You may also be fined on the spot. Many travelers think they will not be checked. This is a mistake. Customs officers regularly check passengers at major airports like Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket.
The ban covers all types of vape devices. It does not matter if the device is for nicotine, CBD, or even if it is empty. It is still illegal. Some tourists believe they can hide a vape in their suitcase. This is risky. If you are caught, you can face heavy fines and even arrest. There are no exemptions for personal use. You cannot declare a vape at customs to make it legal. There is no permit or license you can apply for.
The safest choice is simple. Do not bring any vape devices or liquids when traveling to Thailand.
Recent Crackdowns and News (2024–2025)
Thailand has intensified its efforts to enforce the vaping ban. The government is targeting users, sellers, and importers.
In early 2025, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra ordered a nationwide crackdown. Authorities were given 30 days to show results. Between February 26 and March 4, 2025, police arrested 690 people in 666 vape-related cases. They seized nearly 455,000 vaping products valued at over 41 million Baht.
Customs officials have also made significant seizures. In March 2025, they intercepted over 200,000 smuggled e-cigarettes worth 33 million Baht at a seaport.
The government is also focusing on online sales. The Digital Economy and Society Ministry dismantled 9,515 URLs linked to illegal e-cigarette sales between March 2024 and March 2025.
To involve the public, Thailand introduced a reward system. Citizens can report e-cigarette use and receive up to 60% of the fine imposed on the offender. For example, if someone is fined 5,000 Baht, the informant could earn 3,000 Baht.
These measures highlight Thailand’s strict stance on vaping in 2025. Enforcement is rigorous, and penalties are severe.
What About Heat-Not-Burn Devices, E-Hookahs, or Nicotine-Free Vapes?
All types of electronic smoking devices are illegal in Thailand. This includes:
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Heat-not-burn tobacco products (like IQOS or Glo)
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Electronic hookahs (e-hookahs)
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Nicotine-free vape pens and liquids
The Thai government considers these devices to be the same as e-cigarettes. They are banned under the same laws. Importing, selling, or possessing them is illegal. This applies to both locals and tourists. Even if a device does not contain nicotine, it is still banned. The law does not make exceptions for nicotine-free products. Bringing any of these devices into Thailand can result in fines, confiscation, or arrest.
Some travelers believe that heat-not-burn devices are safer or more acceptable. This is not true in Thailand. Authorities treat all electronic smoking devices the same way. To avoid legal trouble, do not bring any vaping or electronic smoking devices into Thailand. This includes devices that are nicotine-free or marketed as safer alternatives.
Alternatives to Vaping While in Thailand
If you rely on nicotine, there are safer alternatives to vaping while visiting Thailand. You can buy nicotine replacement products. Pharmacies in Thailand sell nicotine gum, patches, and lozenges. These are legal and easy to find in major cities and tourist areas.
You can also buy traditional cigarettes. Smoking cigarettes is legal in Thailand, but there are strict rules. You can only smoke in designated areas. Many public places, beaches, parks, and transport hubs have smoking bans. Breaking these rules can lead to fines.
Another option is to stop using nicotine before you travel. This will remove the risk of needing to vape or smoke during your trip. If you need help, consult your doctor before leaving home. They can advise you on the best nicotine replacement options.
Trying to vape in Thailand is not worth the risk. Using legal alternatives is the safest choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bring an unused vape kit in my luggage?
No. It is illegal to bring any vaping device into Thailand, even if it is unused or still in the box. Customs officers will confiscate it and you could be fined.
What happens if customs finds a vape device?
The device will be taken away. You may be fined immediately. In some cases, you could be arrested and charged with importing banned goods.
Are tourists treated differently from locals?
No. Tourists and locals are treated the same under Thai law. Being a visitor does not protect you from fines or arrest. Ignorance of the law isn’t a valid defence.
What if I buy a vape inside Thailand?
Buying a vape inside Thailand is also illegal. If you are caught, you can be fined or arrested. The penalties are the same as for importing a vape.
Can I vape discreetly without getting caught?
No. Police in Thailand have the right to search you if they suspect you have a vape. Many tourists have been caught vaping discreetly and were still fined.
Is vaping allowed in private hotel rooms?
No. It is illegal to possess or use a vape anywhere in Thailand. Even if you are in a private space in a hotel or Airbnb, you can still face legal action if caught.
What’s the penalty for selling vape products?
Selling vaping devices or liquids is a serious crime. Sellers can face very high fines and long prison sentences, sometimes up to 10 years.
Final Travel Advice: Stay Safe, Stay Informed
To reiterate Vaping is illegal in Thailand. The law applies to everyone, including tourists, and the authorities are clamping down on offenders.
Do not bring a vape device, liquids, or accessories into the country. Do not buy or use vaping products while you are in Thailand. Even if you think you will not get caught, the risks are real. Customs officers and police are actively checking for vaping devices. You could face a large fine or jail time if you are caught.
If you need nicotine, use legal alternatives like gum or patches. These are available at most pharmacies.
Always check the latest travel advisories before your trip. The rules can change, and it is your responsibility to stay informed. Respecting local laws will help you enjoy a safe and trouble-free visit to Thailand.
References and Useful Resources
