National —
At 1:30 PM on December 9th, 2024, Pol. Maj. Gen. Phanumas Bunyalak, the acting commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, inspected Suvarnabhumi Airport to ensure readiness for the expected surge in foreign tourists during the New Year holiday season.
This initiative aligns with Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s policy to boost tourism through visa-free entry for 93 countries. The policy, a continuation of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s efforts, has significantly increased tourist arrivals post-COVID-19.
Over 28 million foreign visitors have entered Thailand since January 2024, with Chinese tourists leading at 6.4 million, followed by Indians, South Koreans, Russians, and Japanese. Daily arrivals could peak at 120,000 during the festive period.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Phanumas emphasized the importance of streamlined operations, including enhanced biometric systems and reduced processing steps, such as eliminating flight detail forms and stamp signatures. Additional personnel and contingency plans for emergencies, like system failures, are in place to avoid delays.
To address passenger congestion, especially during peak arrivals, the Immigration Bureau has optimized procedures, such as automation for boarding pass scans and expedited processing at Auto Channels.
In addition to preparing for the tourist influx, nationwide immigration operations from December 11th to 17th will target foreign nationals violating immigration laws, labor regulations, or engaging in criminal activities.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Phanumas warned offenders that the Immigration Bureau would rigorously enforce the law in collaboration with other agencies, ensuring Thailand remains safe and welcoming for all visitors.
