KOH SAMUI, THAILAND – Authorities on the southern resort island arrested a 30‑year‑old Italian national accused of working illegally as a sports coach while holding only a tourist visa.
Arrest during training session in Bo Phut
Police from the Samui Immigration Bureau, led by Police Colonel Naruvat Phutthawirot, carried out a raid on 28 October 2025 at a sports complex in the Bo Phut district. Officers said the man, identified as Gianluca, was detained as he coached foreign clients in padel, a sport combining elements of tennis and squash.
Investigators had monitored the suspect for several weeks following reports that he was teaching tennis and padel without a valid licence. Through his WhatsApp communication, officials discovered that he charged about 600 baht per hour—roughly 15 euros—with payments processed through the facility where he worked.
Tourist visa used for paid employment
When questioned, Gianluca reportedly admitted to working as a freelance trainer despite entering Thailand on a tourist visa, which does not permit employment. Authorities said he intentionally offered lower prices than Thai instructors, drawing away local clientele and creating unfair competition.
He was charged with working without authorisation and transferred to the Bo Phut Police Station. Under Thai immigration law, he faces potential fines, deportation, and a possible re‑entry ban.
Part of national immigration crackdown
Officials noted that the arrest formed part of a nationwide campaign initiated by Police General Kittirat Panpetch to tackle foreigners engaged in illegal business and work activities in popular tourist destinations such as Koh Samui, Phuket, and Pattaya. The campaign aims to protect Thai workers and maintain public safety across the country.
According to immigration authorities, Thailand has seen recurring cases of foreigners exploiting visa loopholes to take up work in fields such as hospitality, construction, and sports.
Warning for foreign residents and visitors
Authorities emphasized that the case served as a reminder to international visitors that employment without a work permit is illegal.
“FOREIGNERS WORKING ON TOURIST VISAS RISK LOSING THEIR RESIDENCE STATUS AND FUTURE ACCESS TO THAILAND,”
one official said, describing the government’s zero‑tolerance approach.
For many Thai sports trainers, the enforcement action was seen as overdue. Local instructors had complained about illegal competitors offering lessons at unsustainably low rates, undermining the professional training market.
• Working on a tourist visa can result in immediate deportation.
• Employers who facilitate such activity may face penalties.
• Immigration policing is expected to intensify during peak tourist seasons.
The Koh Samui case underscores Thailand’s ongoing effort to balance its tourism‑driven economy with fair labour practices and immigration control.