BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s immigration authority is tightening its grip with a nationwide “3 Noes” campaign, leading to nearly 29,993 foreigners being denied entry between January and May 2026, aimed at combating transnational crime and threats to security and the economy.
What does the “3 Noes” campaign mean?
The measures operate under the slogan “No Entry, No Stay, and No Escape,” focusing on three key areas: denial of entry, revocation of residency, and targeted investigations against attempts to flee. This campaign is based on a directive from Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittiratt Panphet, with Immigration Commissioner Pol. Lt. Gen. Panumas Boonyalak ordering its nationwide implementation for 2026, as announced by Deputy Spokesperson Pol. Maj. Gen. Cherngron Rimphadee.
No Entry: Blacklist and Technical Control
For “No Entry,” the authority utilizes the Advanced Passenger Processing System (APPS), which currently contains 169,506 entries. This includes individuals previously imprisoned in Thailand and those with Interpol arrest warrants. Between January 1 and May 31, 2026, officials denied entry to 29,993 individuals, according to the announcement. Affected travelers were prevented from boarding or turned away at land borders, with arrivals being questioned if suspicion arises.
No Stay: Visa Revocations and Deportations
Under “No Stay,” authorities withdraw visas when foreigners abuse their residency conditions, such as engaging in sham studies on student visas. Such cases have resulted in revocations and deportations. From January 1 to May 31, 2026, immigration officers revoked visas and deported 668 foreigners. Furthermore, nationwide checks and coordinated operations between January 1 and April 30, 2026, led to 14,161 arrests for immigration and related offenses.
No Escape: High-Risk Targets Identified in Provinces
Regarding “No Escape,” authorities identified 190 high-risk targets across several provinces, including 147 in Chonburi, 22 in Surat Thani, 10 in Phuket, 9 in Chiang Mai, and 2 in Mae Hong Son. Operations against these targets have so far led to 31 arrests, with investigations into the remaining identified individuals ongoing, according to the immigration authority.
Who is leading the measures – and what’s next?
Pol. Maj. Gen. Cherngron explained that Pol. Lt. Gen. Panumas has instructed immigration commanders nationwide to continue implementing the “3 Noes” measures and closely monitor the results. The campaign is coordinated by the Royal Thai Police, under the leadership of Commissioner Pol. Gen. Kittiratt Panphet, to strengthen national security and effectively combat cross-border criminal activity.