Educational Information Only
The content on this page is for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is unique. For matters involving investigation, arrest, litigation, or formal proceedings, consult a qualified legal professional.
Document Forgery & Falsification Penalties in Thailand
Criminal penalties for forging, altering, or using falsified documents — passports, visas, contracts, and official papers.
Overview
Document forgery is taken very seriously in Thailand. Forgery of official documents (government-issued) carries heavier penalties than private documents.
Penalties Table
| Offence | Statute | Fine Range | Prison Range | Foreigner Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forging a private document | Criminal Code, Section 264 | Up to THB 40,000 | Up to 3 years | — |
| Forging a public/official document | Criminal Code, Section 265 | Up to THB 40,000 | 1-10 years | Includes forging work permits, visa stamps, or official certificates |
| Using a forged document (knowing it's forged) | Criminal Code, Section 268 | Same as the forger | Same as the forger | Using a fake document carries the SAME penalty as creating it |
| Passport forgery/alteration | Criminal Code + Immigration Act | Up to THB 40,000 | 5-15 years | Extremely serious — often prosecuted alongside immigration offences |
| False statement to officials | Criminal Code, Section 137 | Up to THB 10,000 | Up to 6 months | Includes false information on visa applications |
Important Notes
Using a forged document carries the SAME penalty as creating it
Work permit forgery is increasingly detected through digital verification systems
Visa stamp forgery is considered a national security offence
Document fraud often leads to deportation and permanent blacklisting in addition to criminal penalties
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Penalties shown are statutory provisions and actual sentences may vary based on case circumstances and judicial discretion. Always consult a qualified Thai lawyer for specific legal advice.
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