The Immigration Bureau has confirmed it is tightening screening measures for foreign nationals arriving from conflict zones in the Middle East, following public concern about the number of Israeli citizens staying in the country. Officials said rumours claiming hundreds of thousands of Israelis are residing in Thailand are inaccurate. Authorities reported that only around 31,892 Israeli nationals were present in the country as of 10 March 2026. Get today's headlines by email The clarification came after social media and media reports suggested that up to 425,000 Israelis were living in Thailand, with large concentrations allegedly in provinces such as Phayao, Phrae, Lamphun, Amnat Charoen and Satun. The claims raised fears that large foreign communities could affect local economies, resources and potentially draw Thailand into geopolitical tensions linked to the Middle East conflict. Immigration officials said the figures circulating online were incorrect. According to Pol Maj Gen Cherngron Rimphadee, deputy commissioner and spokesperson for the Immigration Bureau, official data shows 420,202 Israeli nationals entered Thailand through five main airports in 2025, while 405,712 departed. In 2026, between 1 January and 11 March, 84,238 Israelis entered the country and 80,171 departed. Cherngron said the figures indicate there is no unusual pattern of large numbers remaining in Thailand. Data from the Immigration Bureau’s technology centre recorded approximately 31,892 Israelis in the country on 10 March 2026, including visa-exempt tourists and those staying under visas for business, education or family reasons. Further provincial checks found very small numbers applying for long-term stay extensions. Amnat Charoen had one Israeli applying to remain for retirement purposes, while Phrae and Phayao reported none. Tourism provinces showed slightly higher numbers but still limited totals. Mae Hong Son recorded 139 visa extension requests, while Surat Thani, including islands such as Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, recorded 5,938 Israeli visitors and visa holders combined between January and 11 March 2026. Pol Lt Gen Phanumas Boonyalak, commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, has instructed immigration offices nationwide to intensify screening of foreign nationals, particularly from countries involved in Middle East conflicts. Officers are reviewing travel history, travel plans, accommodation bookings and return arrangements, and individuals raising suspicion may be refused entry. Immigration officers are also inspecting hotel foreign guest registrations and gathering intelligence in foreign communities, particularly in major tourist areas. Authorities are coordinating with intelligence and security agencies to monitor potential threats, although no specific warnings have been issued. Officials acknowledged the enhanced screening may slow immigration processing at airports. Waiting times at Suvarnabhumi Airport have reportedly increased to around 50 minutes during peak flight periods, compared with the previous average of under 30 minutes. Thaitabloid reported that Police chief Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet and deputy police chief Pol Gen Samran Nualma previously ordered all police units to remain vigilant to prevent Thailand from becoming a target in disputes between foreign states. Immigration authorities said the measures aim to maintain security while balancing tourism needs as the Songkran festival approaches. Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 13 Mar 2026
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