Thailand warns ‘problematic’ tourists could face deportation
New rules target foreigners convicted of crimes including visa overstays, illegal work or business, forged documents, or offences carrying prison sentences of more than five years.
Thailand's government has announced plans to deport "problematic" tourists who break the law, with new rules set to take effect on Friday. Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul stated that foreigners convicted of illegal activities, such as overstaying a visa, working unlawfully, or committing crimes punishable by more than five years in prison, will be required to leave the country.
These measures, approved by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's administration in July, aim to safeguard Thailand's cultural values. Previously, deportation cases were handled on a case-by-case basis. The government expects about 33.5 million foreign tourists in 2026, up from nearly 33 million in 2025. However, recent issues, such as high-profile arrests for drug offenses and public indecency, have sparked public debate.
While Thailand welcomes tourists, it has been dealing with cases of foreigners acting in violation of the law.
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- Thailand warns ‘problematic’ tourists could face deportation freemalaysiatoday.com
- Thailand warns 'problematic' tourists could face deportation under new rules for visa overstays, illegal work and other offences malaymail.com
- Thailand warns ‘problematic’ tourists could face deportation torontosun.com
