Bangkok
The Thai government is preparing amendments to the Immigration Act and related regulations to accelerate the deportation of foreign nationals convicted of crimes, wanting to close loopholes that currently allow offenders to linger in the country and potentially reoffend.
Government Spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek announced the change following a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, where Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul spoke to the issue amid ongoing successes in cracking down on transnational crimes. These include call-center scam networks, nominee business arrangements that circumvent foreign ownership rules, illegal crimes, and other violations involving foreigners.
“Even after arrests and prosecutions, lengthy deportation procedures, appeals, legal processing, etc. remain a bottleneck,” Ratchada quoted the Prime Minister as saying. Anutin has directed Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt, the Royal Thai Police’s Immigration Bureau, and the Ministry of Interior to jointly review and propose legal changes that would streamline, expedite, and strengthen the deportation process.The reforms come as Thai authorities intensify efforts against cross-border criminal networks. Recent operations have targeted scam syndicates and illegal businesses, many involving foreign nationals, prompting concerns that slow bureaucratic and legal hurdles undermine enforcement. Under current provisions of the Immigration Act (B.E. 2522), officials already have authority to deport aliens who overstay, enter without permission, or commit criminal offenses, but implementation can be protracted due to appeals, documentation, and inter agency coordination issues.
Ratchada added that the changes must balance enforcement with broader considerations. “The Prime Minister has instructed agencies to ensure measures align with national security, public interest, and Thailand’s international obligations,” she said.Anutin has repeatedly stressed Thailand’s open stance toward legitimate visitors and investors. “We welcome foreign nationals who come for tourism, investment, and lawful business activities,” he reiterated. “However, those who violate our laws will face strict enforcement and swift removal from the Kingdom.”
This development builds on earlier government signals to tighten immigration controls, including visa reviews and border measures.
