Do you need a permit to run a lucky draw with 7-Eleven sales in Thailand?

Short answer: Yes, if buyers send in a pack part, coupon or message to enter a prize draw. Section 8 of the Gambling Act B.E. 2478 (1935) says that giving premiums or prizes by chance in the course of business requires prior authorisation from the licensing officer. If every buyer gets the same gift with no draw, it is not a game of chance. Decide which kind you are running at the idea stage, because it changes both lead time and what your ads can say.

Marketing teams often ask the question too late: the "buy one, win gold" idea is approved, the TikTok videos are shot, and only then does someone ask whether there is a permit.

Three kinds of campaign

GVA Professional Group frames the test as three conditions together: a prize is offered, a method of chance is used, and it happens in the course of business.

Only two draw methods can be licensed

According to GVA's summary of the Ministry of Interior directive, two methods are eligible: submitting product labels, vouchers or entry cards for a draw at the date, time and place stated in the licence; or entering by SMS, phone call or a similar method and having numbers drawn the same way. Other methods are not eligible. One permit service provider also warns against computer-random draws and paying cash instead of the prize.

What this means for planning: an "instant win when you scan the QR code" mechanic needs a legal check before any creative is produced.

Documents usually requested

Based on lists from the Dharmniti law firm and permit service providers:

1. The applicant's statement (form ปค.14) covering rules, period, prizes and advertising
2. A company letter stating the request
3. Company registration certificate and power of attorney
4. Proof of the prizes, such as receipts or purchase orders
5. Proof of rights to the product, such as a Thai trademark registration or an exclusive distribution agreement for Thailand
6. Sample ads or coupons

Item 5 matters for foreign brands. If the trademark is not registered in Thailand, the importer needs a distribution agreement from the brand owner.

Rules after the licence is granted

• One licence covers one campaign and cannot be transferred.
• The draw must happen at the date, time and place on the licence.
• Products must be sold at market price, and buyers who do not win still get what they paid for.
• Cash may not be paid in place of a prize.

Dharmniti cites Section 14: running a draw without a licence can lead to up to one year in prison, a fine of 50 to 2,000 baht, or both.

Where the store comes in

The licence belongs to whoever runs the campaign, usually the brand or importer, not the store. Using store space for an entry box, shelf signs or coupons handed out by staff is a separate conversation with the buyer or your distributor, under the store's own rules. Allow time for both.

For a first campaign, a no-draw mechanic is simpler: a gift for every buyer, or a receipt photo sent on LINE for a benefit everyone gets, with TikTok videos telling people where to buy.

Limits

• This is general information, not legal advice. Filing details and the receiving office can vary by area; check with the Department of Provincial Administration or a Thai lawyer before announcing anything.
• The document list comes from private providers, not directly from a government notice.
• Prize tax is not covered here.

FAQ

Does a TikTok giveaway with a random winner need a licence? The same principle applies online when chance decides a prize in a business context, and computer-random draws are a known problem. Check with a lawyer first.

How long does a licence take? One provider quotes about 15 working days after a complete filing. That is a private provider's figure, not a government service standard.

Will the store apply for us? The organiser files, so it is normally the brand's or importer's job.

Sources

• GVA Professional Group, Lucky Draw for the Sales Promotion Campaign: https://gvalaw.jp/en/blog/p20250422/
• Dharmniti, risks of running lucky draws (Thai): https://www.dharmniti.co.th/arrange-sweepstakes-law/
• Lucky-draw permit steps (private provider, Thai): https://www.arenamedia.co.th/lucky-draw-permit/
• Which promotions actually lift sales: https://www.flowupth.com/en/insights/promotions-that-lift-sales

Related guide: Listed in 7-Eleven Thailand but Not Selling?

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