Tourism
Thai Government Targets September Deadline for Phuket Hotel Licensing
The Thai government reports significant progress in resolving long-standing hotel licensing issues in Phuket, aiming to finalize the process by September.
According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand on August 12, 2026, the Thai government is nearing the completion of a major initiative to address hotel licensing backlogs in Phuket. Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploy-Talay Laksameesangchan stated that under the direction of Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, authorities have been working to resolve issues for hotels that have been awaiting permits since 2018.
Out of 392 hotels identified as having pending applications, 275 have already received their licenses. The government expects to process the remaining 117 applications by the end of September 2026. This effort is part of a broader campaign to regulate the hospitality sector, which also includes a crackdown on nominee-owned businesses and initiatives to maintain public order in the province.
For travelers and residents, this development is significant as it aims to bring more accommodation providers into full legal compliance, potentially improving industry standards and oversight. While the government has expressed confidence in meeting the September deadline, the final status of the remaining 117 hotels remains to be confirmed. Visitors are encouraged to verify the legal status of their chosen accommodations through official channels, as the regulatory landscape in Phuket continues to evolve.