National of some 39 countries can enter Thailand without a visa, if the period of their stay does not exceed 30 days. Nationals outside of these countries, who are coming to Thailand for an exhibition or conference, should have registration confirmations to support their visa application at the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate closest to them.

The standard monetary unit is the Thai baht. Paper currency is issued in denominations and can be easily identified by the color of the notes: twenty is green, fifty is blue, one-hundred red, five-hundred purple and one-thousand beige. Currency exchange services are available at most banks, hotels, shopping complexes, and airports.

Thailand's voltage is 220-240 AC, 50 Hertz.

Thai, English (secondary)

Buddhism, Muslim, Christianity, Hinduism

Thailand has tropical climate featuring three distinct seasons. In most areas, the hot season extends from March to May; the green season from June to October and the cool season from November to February.

Prohibited Items
All kinds of narcotics (including hemp, opium, cocaine, morphine, heroin), and obscene literature, pictures or articles are prohibited. Importation of firearms and ammunition can be done only after a permit has been obtained from the Police Department of Local Registration Office.

Tobacco and Alcoholic Beverages
Cigarettes, cigars, or smoking tobacco each or in total must not exceed 250 grams. Two hundred cigarettes may be brought in duty free.

Plants and Animals
The importation of certain species of fruits, vegetables and plants is prohibited. Detailed information can be obtained from the Agricultural Regulatory Division, Bangkhen, Bangkok. Tel: 66 (0) 2579 1581, 66 (0) 2579 8516

Permits for entry for animals coming in by air can be obtained at the airport. If animals are brought into the country by sea, and application must be made at the Department of Livestock Development, Bangkok. Tel: 66 (0) 2251 5136, 66 (0) 2252 6944

Thailand has a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 7%. A VAT Refund can be claimed by any non-Thai visitor who has been in Thailand for less than 180 days in a calendar year; is not airline crew; and departs Thailand by air carrier from an international airport.

A VAT Refund only applies to goods taken out of Thailand within 60 days of purchase.

The goods must be purchased from stores displaying the "VAT REFUND FOR TOURISTS" sign.