Taking a Buddhist statue out of the country

[geronimo]

My friend was given an old Buddha statue (about 25cm high) and wants to know if he is allowed to take it out of the country through the airport.

Thx in advance.

[KhunBENQ]

The question would better be asked:

what permissions are needed, what exceptions (size rules) apply for exporting Buddha statues.

It's one of the very well know rules that the export is forbidden without permission.

Sorry can't help with answers about permissions/exceptions.

Quite sure someone will help out.

[PoorSucker]

1. Buddha images, Bodhisattva images or related fragments, part of ancient monuments and prehistoric objects, are forbidden to be taken out of the Kingdom.

Newly cast Buddha images in complete condition can be exported for worship, cultural exchange or educational purposes with licenses issued by the Fine Arts Department.

Not more than 5 pieces per person shall be allowed.
(more information contact to 0 2628 5032)

2. Reproductions of antiquities can also be exported with licenses.

3. Procedures to obtain a license for export of antiquities or Buddha images:

3.1 The following documents should be produced together with the application form :

• two copies (3x5 inches) of front view photograph of the object(s)
• a photocopy of the applicant's passport (in case of export of Buddha images the photocopy of passport must be certified as true copy by the related Embassy or Consulate in Thailand.)

3.2 Bring the object(s) and the documents to apply for a license at any of the following places:

• Office of Archaeology and National Museums, 81/1 Si Ayutthaya Road, Theves, Dusit, Bangkok, Tel: 0 2628 5032
• Chiang Mai National Museum, Superhighway Road, Amphoe Muang, Chiang Mai, Tel : (053) 221-308
• Songkhla National Museum, 13/1 Jana Road, Tambon Bohyang, Amphoe Muang, Songkhla, Tel : (074) 311-728, 311-881
• Thalang National Museum, Tambon Si Sunthorn, Amphoe Thalang, Phuket, Tel : (076) 311-426

3.3 Please allow 4 working days for license issuing process.

[Suradit69]

Export of Buddha images outside the country

Antiques or artifacts, whether or not they have been registered, are prohibited to be exported or dispatched from Thailand, unless there is a permit from the Fine Arts Department’s director general according to the criteria, procedures and conditions specified in the ministerial regulations no. 5 in B.E. 2539 (1996).

In case the antiques or artifacts permitted to be exported or dispatched from Thailand are religious Buddha images or icons, the person who receives the permit must clarify the purpose of the export of such antiques or artifacts. Only Buddha and religious images which are intact and are for the purpose of worships, researches, or exhibitions are permitted to be exported or dispatched from Thailand. Export or dispatch of parts of such items is not allowed.

http://www.suvarnabhumiairport.com/en/1002-customs-services

[CharlieH]

Please do not cross post the same thread in other forums.

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