Thailand Moves to Tighten Deportation Rules for Foreigners

Thailand Moves to Tighten Deportation Rules for Foreigners

Thailand’s Cabinet has approved in principle a new regulation that would give authorities clearer powers to deport foreigners whose conduct is considered incompatible with Thai laws, morals or social norms. The proposed regulation is intended to address gaps in the country’s existing deportation system, which was introduced decades ago and does not clearly set out modern administrative procedures. Under the draft rules, deportation could apply to foreigners who illegally enter or overstay, work without permission, operate businesses unlawfully, forge documents, or are convicted of offences carrying a prison sentence of three years or more. Foreigners convicted of serious crimes would still have to complete their criminal sentences before deportation, with the government aiming to remove them within 30 days of release once an order has been issued. The government also plans to cover deportation costs using state funds, arguing that this is cheaper than keeping people in detention for extended periods. The draft is now being reviewed by Thailand’s Council of State before the regulation can be formally implemented.