BANGKOK, Thailand – The Thai Immigration Bureau has launched a security campaign to aggressively combat cross-border crime, online fraud, and visa misuse. The authorities are ending lenient entry practices and focusing on digital controls and increased raids, with noticeable consequences for travelers, students, and illegal workers.
Stricter Controls Instead of Lenient Entry
The Thai Immigration Bureau announced a firm course: stricter entry controls, targeted checks, and increased surveillance will stop misuse. The campaign explicitly targets organized call center networks, visa abuse, and individuals using Thailand as a base for illegal operations.
APPS Blocked Even Before Boarding
Thailand is implementing the digital APPS system to screen and block travelers before their flights. According to authorities, 169,506 individuals are on the APPS blacklist, and 29,490 foreigners have been denied entry. Reasons included insufficient funds, lack of travel plans, or suspicious visa runs.
Student and Volunteer Visas Revoked
Authorities announced rigorous action against visa abuse for student and volunteer visas. 668 so-called “fake student” visas were revoked because holders were not attending classes and were instead working or conducting business illegally, according to immigration officials.
Raids with Big Data and Local Police
Immigration data is being linked with local police to conduct targeted surprise raids. A total of 190 high-risk zones nationwide were searched, with selection based on digital analysis, the immigration department stated.
Chonburi Leads Operations
The province of Chonburi, which includes Pattaya, is leading in targeted operations with 147 deployments. Authorities report that Chiang Mai and Phuket follow as further hotspots for controls and raids.
Arrests, Deportations, and a Message to Visitors
Authorities reported that 14,161 individuals, including overstayers and illegal workers, were arrested and processed for deportation. This is part of the central measure against illegal employment. Individuals on the blacklist are already being blocked from flights to Thailand. Thailand reiterates its welcome to genuine visitors, tourists, and workers.