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Thailand has significantly intensified its border controls, turning away almost 30,000 foreign nationals since the beginning of 2026. The government says the stricter measures are aimed at combating visa misuse, illegal employment, and transnational crime—issues authorities argue have grown alongside the country’s booming tourism sector.
Stricter Rules for Incoming Travelers
While many countries are easing entry rules to attract more visitors, Thailand is moving in the opposite direction. The government recently ended the temporary 60‑day visa‑free stay, reverting to shorter allowances. It also expanded the use of its digital arrival card, introduced in 2025 to streamline border checks.
According to the Immigration Bureau, 29,490 foreign nationals were denied entry between January and May 2026. Another 14,161 individuals were arrested for violating immigration laws or related offenses.
Early Screening Before Departure
A central pillar of the new enforcement strategy is the Advanced Passenger Processing System (APPS)—a digital screening tool that checks passenger data before they board a flight to Thailand.
Authorities say Thailand’s watchlist currently includes 169,506 individuals, ranging from convicted criminals to people wanted under international arrest warrants. Anyone flagged can be stopped at departure airports or refused entry upon arrival.
Focus on Visa Abuse and “Visa Runners”
Immigration officers are paying closer attention to travelers who:
- Lack sufficient funds
- Have no return ticket
- Cannot present a credible travel plan
Also under scrutiny are “visa runners”—people who repeatedly exit and re-enter the country to reset their visa‑free stay, effectively living in Thailand without proper long‑term permits.
Authorities have not disclosed which nationalities are most affected. However, posts in travel forums suggest that Russian and Israeli citizens are currently facing more frequent checks.
Travelers Report Longer Wait Times
Tourists have begun sharing accounts of longer queues, more detailed questioning, and stricter document checks at major airports such as Bangkok Suvarnabhumi and Phuket.
Despite the concerns, the government insists that ordinary holidaymakers remain welcome. Officials emphasize that the measures target only those who abuse the immigration system or are linked to criminal activity.
Government Message: Tourism Still Welcome
Thailand continues to rely heavily on tourism, and officials stress that the new policies are not meant to discourage legitimate visitors. Instead, they frame the crackdown as a necessary step to protect national security and maintain order amid rising visitor numbers.
- source: vienna.at/picture: pixabay.com
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