Thailand’s cannabis landscape has undergone dramatic changes in 2025, with the introduction of the PT33 prescription form marking a pivotal shift from liberal access to strictly regulated medical-only cannabis. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about obtaining a PT33 prescription, especially for foreigners visiting Thailand who wish to use cannabis legally.
Table of Contents
- What is PT33?
- The 2025 Political Cannabis Rollercoaster
- Who Can Issue PT33 Prescriptions?
- Medical Conditions Covered
- How Foreigners Can Obtain a PT33
- Step-by-Step Process for Tourists
- Important Restrictions and Penalties
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
What is PT33?
The PT33 (Por Thor 33) is Thailand’s official medical cannabis prescription form, mandatory since June 27, 2025. This standardized document serves as the only legal pathway to purchase, possess, and use cannabis in Thailand following the country’s dramatic regulatory shift from decriminalized recreational use to strict medical-only access.
Key Features of PT33:
- Valid for 30 days maximum per prescription
- Single-use only – cannot be refilled
- Must include: patient name, age, nationality, ID number, diagnosed symptoms, daily dosage, duration of use, and total quantity
- Legally required for all cannabis purchases at licensed dispensaries
- Digital or paper format accepted at dispensaries
The PT33 form represents Thailand’s effort to maintain cannabis accessibility while implementing proper medical oversight and preventing recreational abuse, particularly among youth.
The 2025 Political Cannabis Rollercoaster
Timeline of Thailand’s Cannabis Policy Changes in 2025
January-May 2025: Thailand’s cannabis industry operated under relatively liberal conditions inherited from the 2022 decriminalization, with over 11,200 licensed dispensaries serving both locals and tourists.
June 2025: The political landscape shifted dramatically when the Bhumjaithai Party (original champions of cannabis decriminalization) withdrew from the ruling coalition over a border dispute with Cambodia. This allowed the Pheu Thai Party to pursue its anti-recreational cannabis agenda.
June 26, 2025: Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin signed the Notification on Controlled Herbs (Cannabis) 2025, reclassifying cannabis flowers as controlled herbs requiring medical prescriptions.
June 27, 2025: New regulations took effect, making PT33 prescriptions mandatory for all cannabis purchases.
July 1, 2025: The PT33 form was officially rolled out with detailed requirements for medical practitioners.
September 5, 2025: A major political twist occurred when Anutin Charnvirakul (the “cannabis king” who originally championed decriminalization) became Prime Minister after court rulings removed the previous PM. This brought hope to the industry, though he serves only a four-month term before new elections.
The Political Tug-of-War
The cannabis policy changes reflect deep political divisions:
- Pheu Thai Party: Campaigned on restricting cannabis to medical-only use, citing youth protection concerns
- Bhumjaithai Party: Originally pushed for decriminalization and agricultural benefits
- Public Opinion: Polls showed majority support for re-listing cannabis as a narcotic
- Industry Impact: The $1.2 billion industry faced uncertainty, with thousands of businesses at risk
Who Can Issue PT33 Prescriptions?
Seven categories of licensed medical professionals can issue PT33 prescriptions:
- Medical Doctors (working in clinics or hospitals)
- Traditional Thai Medicine Practitioners (DTAM-certified)
- Chinese Traditional Medicine Practitioners
- Pharmacists
- Dentists
- Veterinarians (for animal treatment)
- Folk Healers (with proper certification)
Important: All prescribers must have completed DTAM-approved training and work from legitimate medical facilities.
Medical Conditions Covered
The PT33 system covers 15 approved health conditions, including:
- Chronic pain conditions
- Insomnia and sleep disorders
- Anxiety and stress-related conditions
- Appetite loss
- Nausea from chemotherapy
- Epilepsy
- Muscle spasms
- Inflammatory conditions
- Palliative care needs
- Other conditions at practitioner discretion
How Foreigners Can Obtain a PT33
Requirements for International Visitors:
- Valid Passport or government-issued ID
- Proof of Age (minimum 20 years old)
- Medical Documentation (helpful but not always required):
- Previous diagnoses
- Current prescriptions
- Doctor’s notes from home country
- Brief symptom summary
Available Services for Tourists:
Several legitimate services help foreigners obtain PT33 prescriptions:
- ThaiCannaMed: Offers telemedicine consultations with licensed Thai doctors
- WeedBKK: Online pre-screening with in-person verification
- Wonderland Clinic: Licensed doctors available 10 AM – 2 AM daily
- Treehouse Medical: Express evaluations starting at ฿650
Step-by-Step Process for Tourists
Step 1: Choose Your Method
Option A: Online Consultation Services
- Start the process from your hotel
- Complete online intake forms
- Upload passport and medical notes
- Video consultation with licensed practitioner
Option B: Direct Clinic Visit
- Visit a licensed clinic or hospital
- Bring all documentation
- In-person consultation
- Receive paper prescription immediately
Step 2: Medical Evaluation
The evaluation typically includes:
- Review of medical history
- Symptom assessment
- Discussion of treatment goals
- Dosage recommendations
- Safety screening
Consultation Fees:
- Follow-up renewal: ฿350-500
- Express evaluation: ฿650-950
- Full consultation: ฿950-1,500
Step 3: Prescription Issuance
Once approved, you’ll receive:
- Official PT33 form (digital or paper)
- Patient ID number
- Prescriber’s license information
- Specific dosage instructions
- Valid dispensary list
Step 4: Dispensary Purchase
At the licensed dispensary:
- Present your PT33 prescription
- Show passport for ID verification
- Receive labeled products matching prescription
- Keep all documentation for legal protection
Step 5: Compliance and Renewal
- Prescriptions expire after 30 days
- New consultation required for renewal
- Keep notes on effectiveness for follow-ups
- Store products in original labeled packaging
Important Restrictions and Penalties
Prohibited Activities:
- Public consumption (฿25,000 fine)
- Possession without PT33 (฿20,000 fine + 1 year prison)
- Selling to minors (severe penalties)
- Online sales (not permitted for flower products)
- Crossing borders with cannabis (serious trafficking charges)
Legal Protections with PT33:
- Full legal possession rights
- Protection from arrest
- Medical privacy maintained
- Access to 639+ partner dispensaries
- Potential discounts at participating shops
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I obtain a PT33 Cannabis Prescription at Space Trees Cannabis Dispensary in Chiang Mai?
Yes, absolutely! At Space Trees we are working with a partner Doctor and have the right to issue a prescription immediately on site. It is very easy and takes only a few minutes.
How long does the process take?
At Space Trees, only a few minutes, at other providers with online pre-screening can be completed in 15-30 minutes. In-person verification and prescription issuance typically takes 1-2 hours.
What if I don’t have medical records from home?
While helpful, prior medical documentation isn’t mandatory. A clear description of your symptoms and medical needs during consultation is often sufficient.
Can I use my PT33 at any dispensary?
Your PT33 is valid at all licensed dispensaries in Thailand. However, the dispensary must verify your identity and keep records of the transaction.
Is teleconsultation legal?
While online pre-screening is common, Thai regulations technically require in-person prescription issuance from a clinic or hospital. Many services combine online intake with required in-person verification.
How much cannabis can I get with one prescription?
The amount depends on medical necessity and practitioner judgment. While some sources mention 30 grams as a guideline, there’s no fixed legal limit – it’s determined case-by-case.
What happens if my PT33 application is denied?
Reputable services offer full refunds for unsuccessful applications. Denials usually occur due to incomplete information or conditions not meeting medical criteria.
Can I travel within Thailand with my prescribed cannabis?
Yes, with proper PT33 documentation and products in original labeled packaging, domestic travel is permitted. Never attempt international travel with cannabis products.
Are edibles covered under PT33?
Yes, prescribed edibles are permitted when specifically indicated on your PT33 form by the medical practitioner.
What’s the difference between recreational and medical use now?
As of June 2025, all cannabis use must be medical with a valid PT33. Recreational use is effectively illegal, though possession for medical purposes with proper documentation is protected.
Final Thoughts
Thailand’s PT33 system represents a dramatic shift from the “green rush” era to regulated medical cannabis access. While more restrictive than the previous system, it maintains legal pathways for legitimate medical users, including foreign visitors.
The political situation remains fluid, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s temporary leadership potentially influencing future regulations. However, the medical-only framework appears entrenched for the foreseeable future.
For tourists seeking legal cannabis access in Thailand, obtaining a PT33 prescription is now mandatory but manageable. With proper documentation, legitimate medical need, and use of authorized services, visitors can still access cannabis legally while enjoying their stay in the Land of Smiles.
Remember: Always prioritize legal compliance, work with licensed practitioners, and keep all documentation readily available. The era of casual cannabis tourism in Thailand has ended, but responsible medical access continues under the PT33 system.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Thailand’s cannabis regulations as of November 2025. Laws and enforcement practices may change. Always consult current official sources and licensed medical professionals for the most up-to-date information.
