Tattoo laws and regulations differ around the world depending on what region you decide to set up shop. Wherever they are, artists need to adhere to specific rules in order to run a legal tattoo business in the country they are in.
Tattoo laws and regulations in Australia
When opening a tattoo studio in Australia, the artist is required to seek approval from the relevant local government body. The laws and regulations differ slightly depending on the state or territory in which the artist wishes to operate.
For example, to get a tattoo-operating licence in Queensland, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria include being over the age of 18, an Australian citizen or permanent resident, willing to undergo a criminal history check, and not having a criminal record over the past decade.
Artists will also need to apply for a licence and pay a registration fee before opening a studio. To do this, they will need to provide ID documents, photographs and fingerprints. They also are required to register their premises and obtain an operating license for the building they plan to work from.
To become a tattoo artist within Queensland, the artist also needs to hold a current ‘Maintain Infection Prevention for Skin Penetration Treatments’ certificate.
Tattoo laws and regulations are similar to this around the country but they do change slightly depending on where the artist plans to open their studio.
Tattoo laws and regulations in Thailand
Over the past few years, the Thai government has cracked down on unsafe tattooing practices around the country, particularly in the capital.
In 2018, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) fined hundreds of unlicensed tattoo studios throughout Bangkok, after it discovered only 50 had proper registrations in place.
After this investigation, the government issued stricter guidelines to ensure a higher standard of quality and hygiene for tattoo artists working in the country. Many legitimate artists welcomed these tighter controls, as they had already been campaigning for years to have their profession properly recognised.
Ensuring a studio is legal
If you are unsure about a studio you plan to get tattooed at, make sure you ask to see the artist’s license or certification. It’s best to be safe when getting something as permanent as a tattoo – and you’ll feel better if you know you can trust the artist carrying out the work.
All Celebrity Ink studios are properly registered and licensed in every one of our 20+ locations world wide. Book an appointment with us today for peace of mind and the highest tattoo quality.
