Thailand's Ministry of Finance published a royal decree in the Royal Gazette on 20 August 2026, in volume 143, special part 198 ng, setting the minimum age for entry to legal gambling venues at 201. The decree was issued under the Gambling Act and signed by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Sommai Phutthitham1.
The same age requirement applies to foreigners who are ordinarily resident in Thailand1. The decree also sets the minimum age for entry to venues operated by the Government Lottery Office or the Sports Authority of Thailand at 201.
The decree further provides that where a gambling venue operator, or a person with a duty related to gambling, allows a person under 20 to enter, the operator must use the entry age and closing time of the venue as the basis for compliance1. Where the venue's closing time is later than the legal closing time, the operator must use the legal closing time as the basis1.
The decree was published on 20 August B.E. 2569, which corresponds to 20261.
"ราชกิจจานุเบกษา ๒๐ สิงหาคม ๒๕๖๙"
What it means for players
The decree sets 20 as the minimum age for entry to legal gambling venues in Thailand, including venues operated by the Government Lottery Office and the Sports Authority of Thailand1. This applies to Thai nationals, foreigners ordinarily resident in Thailand, and other persons covered by the decree1. The decree does not change the legal status of gambling in Thailand, which remains governed by the Gambling Act1. Visitors and residents should be aware that entry to legal venues is now restricted to those aged 20 and over1.
What happens next
The decree was published in the Royal Gazette on 20 August 20261. No further steps or implementation dates are stated in the published text1.
Sources1 sources
- 121961.pdf, ratchakitcha.soc.go.th
