Thailand ATA Carnet
NOTICE: ALL WORK PERMITS & VISAS REQUIRE A THAI PRODUCTION COMPANY TO SPONSOR AND APPLY.
There are strict regulations concerning the exportation and importation of certain items into and from Thailand. Some items are forbidden to be taken in or out of the country without special permits from the relevant government agencies, which should ideally be issued before the arrival and departure dates, respectively.
The ATA Carnet for Film Kit Importation
Thailand is a member of the ATA Carnet Convention, which enables the importation of professional equipment free from the application of import duties. An ATA Carnet is a kind of “passport” for equipment that contains a list of all items, descriptions, and serial numbers to help in its smooth entry and exit from the country. It is a prerequisite, however, that the same equipment must leave Thailand after it has served its intended purpose, such as after filming.
To utilize an ATA Carnet, productions must obtain the document in their home country prior to arrival in Thailand. Upon arrival, the traveler must declare it with customs officers at the “red lane” so the Carnet can be stamped. Customs officers may inspect equipment at their discretion to verify the list matches what actually is brought into the country. The same process is repeated when departing the country so that nothing stays behind. Travelers are thus advised to give enough time for these checks while departing, as the customs may check every item if need be.
Additional Notes on Customs Regulations
For detailed information or any assistance about Thai customs and import regulations, Fill out the form below for a guide.
Special Import Allowances under the Istanbul B1 Convention
Thailand has signed the Istanbul B1 Convention, which allows imports of certain types of disposable products duty-free. However, such products have to conform to certain restrictions on quantity and usage. It is best to check with the Thai Board of Trade or your country’s Chamber of Commerce for more detailed information.
