Immigration Thai PM Tackles Overstaying Tourists with Visa-Free Scheme Revamp

[DjSilver08]

Dear Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra,

 

Ni hao,

 

It's the the tourists fault, it's the Thai government officials fault.

 

Sayonara

 

I rest my case 😎

[ukrules]

What complete nonsense, more will overstay with reduced number of days.

 

Nobody's coming to Thailand on a 30 or 60 day visa exempt entry and starting a business and then working illegally.

But if they do then there's an entire police force - the immigration police who are already tasked with doing the job of detecting this activity, making arrests and prosecuting offenders - just like in every other country on earth.

 

Are the police not doing their job - can't be bothered or something?

 

[Aussie999]

Can someone please explain what difference it would make having a visa.

[bkkcanuck8]

1 hour ago, sikishrory said:

60 days isn't the issue. This is in line with other countries.

It's when you can get 60 days + 60 days + 60 days + extensions through corrupt visa runs that this becomes an issue.

It's not a review thats needed but the simple enforcement of the law.

The 60 day renewals are not the problem, it is just that at a certain point you should be required to show that you have the means to be here without working.  Canada's visa waiver entry allows you to stay 6 months and I had a friend stay in Canada on one of those with 2 x 6 month extensions (submitted by mail)... but she was required to submit proof that she could stay without resorting to working locally (which for her was no problem since her family was fairly wealthy).   If there is a noticeable enough outcry of foreigners working illegally, then just send out the immigration enforcement in force and crack down making an example... Simply put, it is not the length of stay -- it is the corruption or lack of enforcement of abiding by the agreement not to work. 

BTW, the 1 year visa that allows retirees to stay here is just that - it is a glorified tourist visa that allows you to reside here a year by showing that you have the means not to work locally.  Other than the length - it is effectively the just a temporary non-immigrant visa just like a tourism visa. 

[Jack Hammer]

Irrespective of what visa a person holds,  if they intend to overstay they will. What concerns me is the clowns, ten day millionaires, loud mouth trouble makers that come here and leave an indelible mark for their lack of respect. Gaining entry to Thailand without applying for a visa is the problem

[kingstonkid]

7 hours ago, webfact said:

File  Photo via Narin Chuangchot

 

In a decisive move, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered a thorough review of Thailand’s visa-free entry scheme.

 

This comes amid rising concerns about tourists overstaying and working illegally in the country. The directive, issued on Tuesday during the weekly cabinet meeting, targets the Interior, Foreign Affairs, and Tourism and Sports Ministries for immediate action.

 

Government spokesman Jirayu Huangsub highlighted the scheme's misuse by some visitors who have stayed beyond their visa limits and engaged in illegal work.

 

The prime minister's order calls for an in-depth analysis of the scheme's impact, with a focus on adjusting the duration of stays to ensure it meets its intended goal: boosting tourism.

 

 

 

Currently, citizens from 93 countries enjoy visa-free entry into Thailand for tourism, business, or temporary work for up to 60 days, with an optional 30-day extension.

 

However, the tourism sector has flagged concerns about some individuals exploiting this privilege by illegally operating businesses like tour companies, restaurants, and even hotels, which undermines local enterprises.

 

The government's forthcoming study aims to balance encouraging tourism with preventing abuse of the visa-free policy. This careful assessment will influence possible amendments, aligning the scheme more closely with its objectives while safeguarding local interests.

 

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post

 

-- 2025-04-23

 

 

 

7 hours ago, webfact said:

File  Photo via Narin Chuangchot

 

In a decisive move, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered a thorough review of Thailand’s visa-free entry scheme.

 

This comes amid rising concerns about tourists overstaying and working illegally in the country. The directive, issued on Tuesday during the weekly cabinet meeting, targets the Interior, Foreign Affairs, and Tourism and Sports Ministries for immediate action.

 

Government spokesman Jirayu Huangsub highlighted the scheme's misuse by some visitors who have stayed beyond their visa limits and engaged in illegal work.

 

The prime minister's order calls for an in-depth analysis of the scheme's impact, with a focus on adjusting the duration of stays to ensure it meets its intended goal: boosting tourism.

 

 

 

Currently, citizens from 93 countries enjoy visa-free entry into Thailand for tourism, business, or temporary work for up to 60 days, with an optional 30-day extension.

 

However, the tourism sector has flagged concerns about some individuals exploiting this privilege by illegally operating businesses like tour companies, restaurants, and even hotels, which undermines local enterprises.

 

The government's forthcoming study aims to balance encouraging tourism with preventing abuse of the visa-free policy. This careful assessment will influence possible amendments, aligning the scheme more closely with its objectives while safeguarding local interests.

 

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post

 

-- 2025-04-23

 

 

Anything to try getting Thais not thinking about their wallets

[AustinRacing]

It just doesn’t make sense. What’s visa-free or tourist visa duration has to do with illegal employment? You get into trouble overstaying or working illegally. 

[Cabradelmar]

Applaud the sentiment but it's not going to fix anything. Unless of course they eliminate VER (visa exempt rules) entirely (which is a bridge too far; will never get there). Cuz people will just overstay the visa they do get... Overstayers, overstay, it's what they do. Could try electronic ankle bracelets 😂 

[Karlik Pu]

2 hours ago, StandardIssue said:

Wait,  who is still getting 60 days VISA free entry? 

Puti russians do 🙂 It’s time for them to pack and fly back to Putinstan…Fuhrer is waiting for them 555

[Cabradelmar]

7 hours ago, webfact said:

engaged in illegal work

And that's on the people who hire them... So, take a good look in the mirror, Thailand. It's not a VER problem, it's a Thai employer problem.

[KireB]

2 hours ago, scorecard said:

 

What does that mean?

Too lazy to do a Google search?

[Banana7]

Immigration certainly know the names, passport details, photos and finger prints of the over stayers. Run one query against their database and have the answer back in an hour ( depending on the computer system ). They probably have the query already programmed, with detailed breakdowns by country passport, number in Thailand, number authorized for 60 days, number over stayed based on 60 days, etc. etc.

 

As for foreigners owning businesses in Thailand, just go to the Ministry that registers the companies and directors, run a query against their database, and identify all directors without Thai Id numbers. Then go and visit the non-Thai directors, based on last location from immigration database. Of course a lot of data may not be up to date, and many small businesses may not be registered. But the database probably does contain the big fish, so fry the big ones first. Also fry the lawyers or consultants who assisted in establishing the nominee companies for foreigners. When one of these consultants is found, go through their files and bank accounts, to find other foreigners running companies.

 

Nothing complicated here. I am just wondering who is benefiting from not doing the work or who has been blocking the work?

 

[Enoon]

15 minutes ago, Cabradelmar said:

And that's on the people who hire them... So, take a good look in the mirror, Thailand. It's not a VER problem, it's a Thai employer problem.

 

Employers plus government agencies/agents  that look the other way......for MONEY.

 

It's the usual problem......root and branch corruption in the Thai social order.

 

Thailand is a great place to do illegal business.

 

 

[MarkBR]

Just get rid of visas, and anyone staying pays a fee to stay another.  

Could raise loads of money.

Everyone much have proof of paying fee/monthly tax 

[JimHuaHin]

6 hours ago, steve187 said:

no flip flop here, just a call to review immigration rules, everyone knows the old rules are outdated and abused

What is not outdated and abused here?

[kwilco]

8 hours ago, webfact said:

File  Photo via Narin Chuangchot

 

In a decisive move, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered a thorough review of Thailand’s visa-free entry scheme.

 

This comes amid rising concerns about tourists overstaying and working illegally in the country. The directive, issued on Tuesday during the weekly cabinet meeting, targets the Interior, Foreign Affairs, and Tourism and Sports Ministries for immediate action.

 

Government spokesman Jirayu Huangsub highlighted the scheme's misuse by some visitors who have stayed beyond their visa limits and engaged in illegal work.

 

The prime minister's order calls for an in-depth analysis of the scheme's impact, with a focus on adjusting the duration of stays to ensure it meets its intended goal: boosting tourism.

 

 

 

Currently, citizens from 93 countries enjoy visa-free entry into Thailand for tourism, business, or temporary work for up to 60 days, with an optional 30-day extension.

 

However, the tourism sector has flagged concerns about some individuals exploiting this privilege by illegally operating businesses like tour companies, restaurants, and even hotels, which undermines local enterprises.

 

The government's forthcoming study aims to balance encouraging tourism with preventing abuse of the visa-free policy. This careful assessment will influence possible amendments, aligning the scheme more closely with its objectives while safeguarding local interests.

 

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post

 

-- 2025-04-23

 

 

 

 

THat's actually non-news.

Any country checks visitors for visa/entry and stay abuse..... what would be news is any changes but they haven't said anything about that.

60 day concerns

re-entry concerns

TDAC - hasn't been mentioned at all recently.

and the ETA which has either been postponed or cancelled.

 

..but no news of any of this.

[black tabby12345]

2 hours ago, mattyc1957 said:

Doesn't matter how long the visa exemption period (and I'm loving the 60+30!!), if somebody is intending to overstay and work illegally then that's what they will do. Dropping the visa exemption back to 30 days won't bother them, but will make it more difficult for the people wishing to enjoy an extended break in Thailand.

 

Exactly.

If they are determined to work in the black market, the length of their stay permit  won't any matter.

All they only have to gain entry in the first place.

What they are talking about, totally out of point.

That's why, old system(need of visa for initial entry of  the 3rd world people) is far more effective.

They can shut out anyone suspicious before their arrival.

 

[kwilco]

6 hours ago, steve187 said:

no flip flop here, just a call to review immigration rules, everyone knows the old rules are outdated and abused

can you be more specific?

[sandyf]

2 hours ago, Purdey said:

I thought that immigration had an electronic record of who entered and when.

Yes they do, but that is not the point. The objective is advance warning on who will be travelling.

There is a another system in place,  API(Advance Passenger Information),  but it is airline orientated and not all airlines use it.  Depending on the airline used some information will now be provided twice.

 

AI Overview

Learn more

 

No, not all airlines use Advance Passenger Information (API) systems, but many airlines are required to collect and transmit API data for flights to or from certain countries. API systems are implemented in nearly all countries globally, with the US, EU, and many other countries requiring it. 

 

Elaboration:

• Why API systems are used:

  Many countries require airlines to collect and transmit API data for security and border control purposes. This information is used to screen passengers before they arrive in a country, helping to identify individuals who may pose a threat. 

   
• Who needs to provide API:

  Generally, all passengers flying to or from countries that require API systems need to provide the necessary information. 

   
• How to provide API:

  You can usually provide your API information when you book your flight or check in online. Some airlines also allow you to provide the information online using a dedicated form. 

   
• Examples of airlines requiring API:

  Many major airlines, including Air Canada, Emirates, American Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and British Airways, are required to collect and transmit API data for flights to or from certain countries. 

   
• Consequences of not providing API:

  If you are not required to provide API information for your specific flight, you can usually still travel without it. However, if you are required to provide API information and fail to do so, you may not be allowed to travel or may face delays at check-in. 

[kiwikeith]

3 hours ago, NorthernRyland said:

 

won't matter they'll just leave, get a DTV and come back for 5 years. They still need to police people on the ground. I'm sure Thai people are quick to report suspicious business to the police.

 

3 hours ago, NorthernRyland said:

 

won't matter they'll just leave, get a DTV and come back for 5 years. They still need to police people on the ground. I'm sure Thai people are quick to report suspicious business to the police.

I dont think the 60 day causes illegal working, I would think that broke draft dodgers may have something to do with it

[crazyg]

7 hours ago, steve187 said:

no flip flop here, just a call to review immigration rules, everyone knows the old rules are outdated and abused

old rules?
The 60-day visa exemption has existed for less than a year...
OK, certain nationalities had 90 days for a few years before, but for the majority of western countries, the current situation is still very new.

Immigration rules have long been abused here. Enforcement is the issue.

[NoDisplayName]

8 hours ago, webfact said:

In a decisive move, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered a thorough review of Thailand’s visa-free entry scheme.

 

Decisive = call for various departments to form committees to establish study groups to hire their nephews as subcontractors to use chatGPT to produce reams of word salad reports which can then be stored in warehouses owned by cousins.

[toho]

Validity of visa free stay will not stop criminals.

TAT loves tourists. For Thai people Money=God, a Thai teacher once told me.

So keep the 60 days principle, let tourists stay, enjoy and spend money.

I think the lobby to return to the 30 days system is also fed by visa-run shops, hotels (jealous of B&B).

It is all about the money.

[jts-khorat]

3 hours ago, riverhigh said:

Same, same. Doesn't matter what kind of visa is issued there will always be some kind of abuse. IMHO, if they intend maintian all these different types of visas,  the only real deterrent is life time bans and heavy fines.  At least 25% of the people I know on the DTV are not using it for what it was intended for.

 

Or, simply accept that there is a large number of long-time tourists simply spending money, and a very small percentage of "tour guides" and "bar owners" (who nonetheless bring financial turnaround).

 

I remember, as I came to Thailand in the late 90s, that I was working for months, as I heard for the first time that something like a work permit even exists. And I would never have gotten one for the job I did then (nobody on Phuket had even heard of the internet or web design, there were only 2000 fixed phone lines on the whole island).

 

What I am trying to say is: the jobs a longstay tourist is likely to engage in is the grey economy, where people don't pay taxes and proper business setups most likely will be prohibitive for the tiny returns. There is a good chance that just checking up on everything costs more than simply ignoring this small percentage. Better spend the money on improving tourist infrastructure.

 

But who am I to advise the Thai government?

[jas007]

I guess it's been said that what should probably happen is that they go after the people who are working illegally or whatever and leave the tourists alone. After all, if a person is not working, then they're here spending money they've remitted into Thailand, and that's good for Thailand, right?   I'm sure all the businesses appreciate that money.

[jasoneyes]

If someone intentionally overstays their Visa why not send them to detention in Mandalay. I’m sure Burma will do this for a small fee and your problem will be solved permanently. 

[WHansen]

I can understand the sentiment from the government as the 60 day visa free has enticed more undesirables to visit Thailand than it can deal with, but it may be too late to change the damage this has caused to Thailands reputation. 

We have all read the stories about Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket etc turning into war zones, whether true or over publicised by the media for extra clicks i don't know but the stories are out there for potential visitors to read.

As a 60 day visa is so cheap and easy to obtain, the bad people that visited and discovered just how slack law enforcement is here, and how easy it is pay their way out of trouble or prevent trouble will just just apply for a visa.

[Magictoad]

It's virtually impossible for a farang/  foreigner to work illegally or run a business here. The foreigner will be grassed up, touted on or nformed on within days. They stand out like a sore thumb.

Chinese or Burmese can work easily because they can meld into the population. 

But no chance your for average European. I think these stories are BS and or highly exaggerated.

[Magictoad]

1 hour ago, jts-khorat said:

 

Or, simply accept that there is a large number of long-time tourists simply spending money, and a very small percentage of "tour guides" and "bar owners" (who nonetheless bring financial turnaround).

 

I remember, as I came to Thailand in the late 90s, that I was working for months, as I heard for the first time that something like a work permit even exists. And I would never have gotten one for the job I did then (nobody on Phuket had even heard of the internet or web design, there were only 2000 fixed phone lines on the whole island).

 

What I am trying to say is: the jobs a longstay tourist is likely to engage in is the grey economy, where people don't pay taxes and proper business setups most likely will be prohibitive for the tiny returns. There is a good chance that just checking up on everything costs more than simply ignoring this small percentage. Better spend the money on improving tourist infrastructure.

 

But who am I to advise the Thai government?

When I came here in 1990 I worked without a work permit. Nobody at the small school had a work permit. We were all qualified to teach. It was only after I left that I discovered I was the one who was not gay.

[Magictoad]

2 hours ago, Banana7 said:

Immigration certainly know the names, passport details, photos and finger prints of the over stayers. Run one query against their database and have the answer back in an hour ( depending on the computer system ). They probably have the query already programmed, with detailed breakdowns by country passport, number in Thailand, number authorized for 60 days, number over stayed based on 60 days, etc. etc.

 

As for foreigners owning businesses in Thailand, just go to the Ministry that registers the companies and directors, run a query against their database, and identify all directors without Thai Id numbers. Then go and visit the non-Thai directors, based on last location from immigration database. Of course a lot of data may not be up to date, and many small businesses may not be registered. But the database probably does contain the big fish, so fry the big ones first. Also fry the lawyers or consultants who assisted in establishing the nominee companies for foreigners. When one of these consultants is found, go through their files and bank accounts, to find other foreigners running companies.

 

Nothing complicated here. I am just wondering who is benefiting from not doing the work or who has been blocking the work?

 

Nobody: it's all BS and hysteria.  The only people working illegaly are Burmese & Chinese who fit in visually.  NOT farang who do not fit in. Even if they are running a bar or club they ALWAYS remain seated leaving the work to the Thai staff. As soon as they lift a finger to do any work they get busted immediately and reported.