November 21, 2025 | 10:41 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Thai immigration authorities have intensified visa screening for tourists after numerous instances of foreigners abusing visa policies for illegal business activities. According to the Thailand Immigration Bureau, many foreigners have exploited the 90-day visa-free policy, especially in expatriate hubs like Pattaya, Phuket, and Hua Hin.
Thailand has introduced a visa exemption program allowing nationals from 93 countries to enter Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa, with an option for a 30-day extension at immigration offices. The policy, effective from 2024, aims to boost foreign tourist arrivals in Thailand.
However, under the new regulations, foreign tourists who carry out more than two visa runs without valid reasons can be denied entry. They will be required to obtain a visa for re-entry, as stated on the Government Public Relations Department's website.
Illegal Business by Foreign Nationals
According to the Bangkok Post, these expatriate hubs have become specialized in offering travel packages to the nearest border points to manage visa formalities. Some expatriates have been residing in the country for years and have renewed tens of tourist visas.
Since the beginning of this year, immigration authorities have rejected approximately 2,900 visa applications from individuals found to be abusing this privilege. The immigration office will also meticulously scrutinize applications for temporary stay extensions. Foreigners previously deported from the Thailand-Myanmar border area will be permanently barred from re-entry.
The bureau stated that the heightened scrutiny may slightly slow down passport processing during peak periods, but assured that additional staff will be deployed to maintain efficiency. However, it ensured that the screening would remain efficient, taking no longer than 45 seconds per person, with queue times limited to around 40 minutes.
The bureau emphasized that these measures are not aimed at hindering tourism but rather at attracting "quality visitors" who contribute positively to Thailand's economy.
Thailand welcomed over 26.6 million foreign arrivals in the first 10 months of this year, a 7.2 percent decline from 2024.
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