Previously, Criminal Code Section 301 made abortion a criminal offence for both women and providers. On 19 February 2020, the Constitutional Court ruled that this section was unconstitutional as it violated women's right to bodily autonomy and self-determination.
The amendment was a landmark step in protecting women's health rights in Thailand. The new law significantly expanded legal access and introduced a structured counseling process for pregnancies between 12–20 weeks, per the Ministry of Public Health Notification B.E. 2565.
Is abortion legal in Thailand?+
Yes. For pregnancies up to 12 weeks, termination is permitted on request under Criminal Code Amendment Act No. 28, B.E. 2564, effective 7 February 2021. For 12–20 weeks, it is permitted after mandatory counseling. Beyond 20 weeks, only in special cases.
Up to how many weeks of pregnancy is abortion allowed?+
Up to 12 weeks, termination is permitted on request with no reason required, provided it is performed by a licensed physician at an accredited facility. Between 12 and 20 weeks, termination is permitted after examination and options counselling by a physician and other professionals, under the Ministry of Public Health notification of B.E. 2565 (2022). Beyond 20 weeks, it is permitted only in the circumstances set out in Section 305 — such as risk to the pregnant person's life or health, severe fetal abnormality, or pregnancy resulting from a sexual offence — assessed by the facility under the applicable criteria.
Do I need consent from a husband, partner, or parent?+
Thai law places the decision with the pregnant person and does not require consent from a husband, partner, or family member. People aged 15 and over have the legal right to decide for themselves. Those under 15 need consent from a parent or guardian, under the ministerial regulation issued under the Act for Prevention and Solution of the Adolescent Pregnancy Problem B.E. 2559. In all cases a social worker or psychologist takes part in the counselling process. That said, some facilities have their own internal practice of asking a parent or guardian to countersign, even for patients aged 15 and over. It is worth contacting your chosen facility in advance so you know what to expect and can prepare.
When did the law change and how?+
The law took effect on 7 February 2021, following a Constitutional Court ruling on 19 February 2020 that the previous Section 301 violated the constitution. Previously, all abortions were criminal offences. Now termination is freely permitted up to 12 weeks and conditional up to 20 weeks.
What is options counseling and how long does it take?+
Options counseling is required for pregnancies of 12–20 weeks. A multidisciplinary team provides information on all options — termination, parenting, and adoption — without judgment. It takes approximately 30–60 minutes. At this stage of pregnancy, termination is permitted after examination and options counselling.
Can I use the Universal Coverage Scheme or Social Security?+
Yes. Those eligible for the gold card or social security can receive legal abortion services free of charge at participating public hospitals in the RSA network. Please inquire with your local hospital directly.
Can foreigners living in Thailand access this?+
The law does not restrict access by nationality, so foreigners in Thailand may access legal abortion services under the same gestational-age conditions. However, the Universal Coverage Scheme and Social Security are benefits of the Thai health insurance system and apply only to those eligible for them; anyone not covered pays for the service directly. It is best to contact the facility in advance to ask what documents are required and whether interpretation is available.
Will my personal information remain confidential?+
All medical information is confidential under the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) B.E. 2562. Healthcare providers are not required to report to police or government agencies, and will not disclose information to third parties without consent.
Unlicensed practitioner
Up to 5 years imprisonment or fine up to 100,000 THB, or both
Person providing unlawful assistance
Up to 3 years imprisonment, fine, or both — including selling unregulated medications
Woman self-terminating after 12 weeks
Subject to penalty unless qualifying conditions under Section 305 are met