How to Buy Lottery Tickets in Thailand: A Complete Guide for First-Timers
Have you ever noticed the colorful lottery tickets while walking through Thai markets? Did you know that foreigners can easily buy them too? Thailand’s lottery offers a top prize of 6 million baht (approximately $180,000 USD as of the end of March 2025). In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know—from where to buy tickets, how to choose numbers, to checking your winning status.
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1. What Is the Thai Lottery?
The Government Lottery of Thailand is an official and legal form of gambling. Draws are held twice a month, on the 1st and 16th. A pair of tickets costs 80 baht at face value, though vendors may sell them for around 100 baht. The top prize is 6 million baht (~$180,000 USD), and there are several other prize categories such as 2nd, 3rd, and runner-up prizes.
2. Where Can You Buy Tickets?
You can find lottery tickets at many locations across Thailand:
- Street vendors with portable lottery stands
- Outside local markets and shopping malls
- Near convenience stores and train stations in urban areas like Bangkok
Tickets are displayed in transparent cases, allowing you to select the numbers you like. There are also sets of sequential numbers available for purchase.
3. Tips for Buying and Choosing Numbers
Ticket numbers are pre-printed, so you can’t pick your own like in some other countries. However, you can browse and select numbers that catch your eye. Popular choices include:
- Birthdates or anniversaries
- Car license plates or numbers seen in dreams
- Lucky numbers spotted at temples or sacred places
Prices may vary, but it’s possible to negotiate with the vendor, especially if buying in bulk.
4. How to Check Winning Numbers
There are several ways to check if you’ve won:
- Official Government Lottery website: https://www.glo.or.th/
- Thai lottery checking apps and websites
- Live TV broadcasts on draw days (usually around 2:30–4:00 PM)
- Social media platforms and YouTube
For winnings up to 100,000 baht (~$3,000 USD), you can collect your prize at local banks or ticket vendors. For higher amounts, you must go to the Government Lottery Office in Nonthaburi, Bangkok. Don’t forget your passport when claiming your prize.
5. Are Winnings Taxed?
Yes, lottery winnings in Thailand are subject to a 5% withholding tax. For example, if you win the 6 million baht prize, you’ll receive 5.7 million baht (~$171,000 USD) after tax. If you reside outside Thailand, especially in countries like the U.S. or Japan, you may also be liable for taxes in your home country, so consult with a tax professional.
[Conclusion]
Trying your luck with the Thai lottery is a fun and simple experience, even for travelers. With easy-to-follow steps and widely accessible vendors, anyone can participate. Who knows? Your dream vacation could turn into a jackpot moment. Just remember to play responsibly and treat it as an enjoyable part of your Thai adventure!
