PATTAYA, Thailand – The Cabinet has approved Thailand’s first official deportation regulations, creating a clearer process to remove foreigners who violate immigration laws, work illegally, operate businesses unlawfully, or commit serious offences. The move follows a government review of immigration procedures aimed at making the deportation process faster and more efficient, with several agencies required to coordinate closely on cases involving foreigners who may pose concerns to public order or national interests.
The new regulations establish six main categories of offences that could lead to deportation:
- Entering or remaining in Thailand without legal permission.
- Working illegally under foreign worker employment laws.
- Operating a business in violation of the Foreign Business Act.
- Forging government documents or using fake official documents.
- Committing offences carrying a prison sentence of three years or more.
- Acting as a principal, instigator, or supporter of the above offences.
Government spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek said the regulations were needed because Thailand previously lacked a clear government procedure specifically covering deportation operations.
Under the new framework, relevant agencies will be required to share information on foreign nationals involved in criminal cases before their release from prison. Authorities will then review cases and, where appropriate, recommend deportation orders without unnecessary delays.
The Ministry of Interior will oversee the process of returning individuals ordered for deportation to their country of nationality. If nationality cannot be confirmed, authorities may consider returning them to the country where they last lived before entering Thailand.
The regulations also cover situations where another country or international organization requests the transfer of a foreign national through diplomatic channels, provided responsibility for related costs is accepted and the individual agrees to the process. Officials said the new system is designed not only to address illegal entry and criminal activity but also to strengthen enforcement against foreigners who misuse business permissions or operate outside Thai law. The measure comes as Thailand continues efforts to balance its role as a major international tourism and investment destination while ensuring that foreign visitors, workers, and businesses comply with national regulations.
