Surat Thani authorities have ordered an urgent investigation into reports that foreign nationals operating education, tourism and property businesses on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan have obtained Thai nationality and hold Thai national identity cards.
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On 15 June, Surat Thani Governor Jumphot Wannachatsiri said the province was examining claims published by a news outlet that foreign nationals in Koh Samui and Koh Phangan possessed Thai identity cards with identification numbers beginning “81033..”. He stated that checks by the Surat Thani Provincial Administration had not found any foreign nationals applying for Thai nationality in the province, but officials were investigating whether such individuals had in fact obtained Thai citizenship as reported.
The issue has drawn attention because of concerns over the status of foreign business operators in the two popular island districts. Authorities are now reviewing the information and examining whether the reported nationality changes and identity card records are genuine.
Deputy Governor Chakkrit Fangchonjit explained that foreign nationals may obtain Thai nationality under the conditions and criteria set out in the Nationality Act B.E. 2508 (1965). However, he noted that the five-digit code cited in reports was insufficient to verify whether it belonged to a Thai citizen’s identity number.
He added that numbers beginning with the digit 8 are associated with the status of foreign nationals, making further information necessary before officials can accurately determine the facts. Authorities are therefore seeking additional details to establish the origin and validity of the reported identification numbers.
The Surat Thani provincial administration said it was not ignoring the matter and had instructed relevant agencies to conduct a thorough investigation. This includes examining the source of the reported identification numbers and reviewing all related administrative procedures to ensure transparency and compliance with the law.
Governor Jumphot reiterated that all relevant agencies had been directed to accelerate the investigation and address any irregularities seriously. He said that if any unlawful conduct or improper acquisition of rights is discovered, legal action will be taken in accordance with the law, and the findings will be made public.
Daily News reported that according to a source at the Department of Lands, preliminary checks found that at least one Israeli national who had obtained Thai nationality owned five plots of land. Four plots are located on Koh Phangan and one on Koh Samui.
Picture courtesy of Daily News
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 16 June 2026