Covid-19 surge: Chulalongkorn virologist advises vaccination strategy. Dr Yong warns of major Covid-19 surge with 5,000+ weekly hospitalizations—Should you get vaccinated? Here’s his advice. The Nation

Covid-19 surge: Chulalongkorn virologist advises vaccination strategy

Dr Yong warns of major Covid-19 surge with 5,000+ weekly hospitalizations—Should you get vaccinated? Here's his advice.

Covid-19 Resurgence in Thailand: Over 8,000 Cases Reported in a Week. Thailand is witnessing a worrying resurgence of Covid-19 cases, with over 8,446 hospital visits recorded between 27th April and 3rd May. Following Bangkok, other areas with significant numbers include Chonburi with 680 cases, Nonthaburi reporting 490, Rayong with 380, and Samut Prakan recording 327 cases. This resurgence underscores a pivotal challenge as the country hoped to maintain control over the Covid-19 situation. ASEAN NOW

File photo for reference only

 

Thailand is witnessing a worrying resurgence of Covid-19 cases, with over 8,446 hospital visits recorded between 27th April and 3rd May. This uptick in cases has been brought to attention by Assoc Prof Dr Thira Woratanarat, a respected public health expert from Chulalongkorn University. Bangkok has emerged as the epicentre of this latest wave, logging the highest number of new infections at 2,377, according to Dr Thira's recent analysis.

 

Following Bangkok, other areas with significant numbers include Chonburi with 680 cases, Nonthaburi reporting 490, Rayong with 380, and Samut Prakan recording 327 cases. This resurgence underscores a pivotal challenge as the country hoped to maintain control over the Covid-19 situation.

 

One of the notable trends in this recent surge is the age distribution of those affected. The highest infection rates are among individuals aged 30 to 39 years, accounting for 1,794 cases. Close behind are those aged 20 to 29, with 1,540 cases. Crucially, older adults over 60 also figure prominently, recording 1,536 infections. However, it is the spike in cases among very young children, aged 0 to 4, that is raising special concern, with 682 cases identified.

 

Dr Thira has highlighted these dynamics to alert public health officials and the general public about the broader implications of this trend. He pointed out that between 4th and 7th May, Covid-19 cases were roughly double the number of influenza cases, spotlighting the severity of the current outbreak. In this period, there were 2,593 Covid-19 cases compared to 1,321 influenza cases.

 

Worryingly, there has also been one recorded Covid-19-related death during this timeframe. The health expert warns that individuals showing symptoms right now have a two-to-one likelihood of having Covid-19 over influenza, with an estimated 67% chance of contracting the virus if symptomatic.

 

In response to this renewed threat, Dr Thira stressed the importance of targeted precautions for vulnerable groups such as young children, school students, the elderly, and those already hospitalised. He advises that individuals, particularly those working, should make health assessments a routine to ensure both personal safety and the safety of others. Dr Thira also recommends routine screening for inpatients and those scheduled for surgery, helping to safeguard patients and medical staff within healthcare facilities.

 

He further called on educational institutions, childcare centres, elderly care facilities, and hospitals to adopt and enforce effective risk management strategies promptly. Quick action is necessary, he emphasised, to prevent a broader outbreak that could affect diverse age groups. The call for vigilance and proactive measures aligns with a global understanding that pandemic control requires collective effort and community-wide commitment.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-08

Immigration issues far too fragmented says Thai interior ministry. The aim of Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to create a new Immigration Affairs department of state would replace an outdated bureaucracy well past its sell-by date. Although foreign tourists and expats only see the Immigration Bureau as responsible for border control regulation, the reality is that many state agencies are involved in policy implementation.- Pattaya Mail

Immigration issues far too fragmented says Thai interior ministry

Pattaya MailMay 6, 2025

Another group of unwanted guests in Thailand is hastily deported.

The aim of Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to create a new Immigration Affairs department of state would replace an outdated bureaucracy well past its sell-by date. Although foreign tourists and expats only see the Immigration Bureau as responsible for border control regulation, the reality is that many state agencies are involved in policy implementation.

For example, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues new visa regulations to its embassies abroad whereas the immigration police are responsible for who actually enters and for how long. The advent of the Destination Thailand Visa has illustrated the confusion between Thai embassies abroad (under the control of the Foreign Affairs Ministry) and immigration officers on duty at airports and borders.

The Ministry of Labor is responsible for the issuing of work permits, whereas the Immigration Bureau controls the length of visas associated with them. But the Board of Investment's (BOI) one-stop-shop is also heavily involved in establishing separately trading companies, work permits and visas. Applications for the 10-year Long Term Residence, amongst others, go directly to the BOI.

Anutin's proposed reform would also shift the perception of immigration from simply a security issue to border management and human welfare concerns. Current policies categorize illegal entrants and overstayers as threats. But there are also humanitarian concerns such as political refugees and asylum seekers. Even some western tourists have been inhumanely treated when "accidental" overstay occurs, for example because of prolonged hospitalization.

The existing immigration framework can lead to mass forcible return of Myanmar political refugees, even though the Thai economy is in dire need of unskilled and semi-skilled workers from neighboring countries. The deportation of Uyghurs back to China reflects rigid immigration rules contrary to the suppression of torture act of 2022 which explicitly bans deportations to locations where torture or persecution is likely. Human rights cannot be exempted from all immigration matters.

A new department of state would have very broad duties. They would include residency permits to foreigners including the 5-20 years Elite (Privilege Card), granting work authorization, administering citizenship and naturalization processes and managing civil registration for both Thais and foreigners. The last over-arching immigration reform was in 1979 when the agenda was focused on the shifting populations after the end of the American war in south east Asia.

However, the barrier to all progress on immigration issues remains corruption. Currently there is rampant people smuggling, foreigners running proxy businesses, illegal working and chronic abuse, as reflected in recent scandals about student visas being awarded to applicants with nefarious intentions. Unless corruption is tackled, changing structures won't get very far.



Thailand Enforces Stricter Education Visa Rules to Combat Misuse. BANGKOK, May 5, 2025 — Thailand has rolled out a crackdown on Non-Immigrant ED (education) visas, introducing five new measures to address widespread misuse by foreigners exploiting these visas to extend their stay without pursuing studies.- The Pattaya News

Thailand Enforces Stricter Education Visa Rules to Combat Misuse

Adam JuddMonday, 5 May 2025, 1:37

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BANGKOK, May 5, 2025 — Thailand has rolled out a crackdown on Non-Immigrant ED (education) visas, introducing five new measures to address widespread misuse by foreigners exploiting these visas to extend their stay without pursuing studies. Announced on April 30 by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and the Immigration Bureau, the reforms aim to restore integrity to Thailand's international education system while aligning with broader immigration controls.

The crackdown was spurred by cases of visa abuse, notably at a Chiang Mai campus, where over 500 Chinese students held ED visas but did not attend classes. Authorities also flagged instances of scammers and individuals involved in illegal activities using these visas, prompting a reevaluation of the system. Below are the five measures now in effect:

1. Mandatory Program Approval: Educational institutions must submit detailed information about non-degree international programs to MHESI for approval before enrolling foreign students. This ensures that courses meet educational standards and are not merely fronts for visa issuance.

2. Enhanced Data Reporting: Schools are required to provide regular, detailed reports on student enrollment, attendance, and program progress. This measure aims to create a transparent record, making it easier to identify discrepancies or non-compliance.

3. Random Compliance Inspections: The Immigration Bureau and MHESI will conduct unannounced checks at educational institutions to verify that students are actively attending classes. These inspections target institutions with suspicious enrollment patterns to ensure visa holders are genuinely studying.

4. Data Sharing for Investigations: Any irregular or suspicious data identified during inspections or reporting will be shared with MHESI for further investigation. This could lead to visa revocations for students and penalties for institutions failing to comply.

5. Program Revocation Penalties: Institutions found violating the new regulations risk having their programs revoked. Such penalties could also impact their ability to offer international programs in the future, incentivizing compliance.

The measures come amid Thailand's broader immigration reforms. While the crackdown aims to protect Thailand's reputation as an educational destination, it may pose challenges for legitimate international students, who now face increased scrutiny, and for institutions, which must navigate heightened administrative requirements.

Authorities added that the reforms target visa abusers while preserving opportunities for genuine students. However, some worry that overly stringent rules could deter prospective learners, potentially impacting Thailand's education sector. The Immigration Bureau has pledged to monitor the measures' impact and adjust as needed to balance security and accessibility.

Photos: Stock photos of Thai law enforcement. 



Surely it’s time to stop bashing Pattaya. The last few weeks have seen a veritable explosion of negative news about Pattaya in both mainstream and social media. The main emphasis has been on the loutish behavior of tourists (often Brits) variously found peeing disgustingly in public places, attempting copulation on the beach with varying degrees of success, attacking strangers or policemen in a drunken stupor and getting badly beaten up.- Pattaya Mail

Surely it's time to stop bashing Pattaya

Pattaya MailMay 5, 2025

Pattaya's Walking Street in the 2020s and in the 1980s, but has the city really changed?

PATTAYA, Thailand – The last few weeks have seen a veritable explosion of negative news about Pattaya in both mainstream and social media. The main emphasis has been on the loutish behavior of tourists (often Brits) variously found peeing disgustingly in public places, attempting copulation on the beach with varying degrees of success, attacking strangers or policemen in a drunken stupor and getting badly beaten up. The professional name for such news is doomscrolling, though it's actually click bait or enticement to click on the story. Pattaya Mail is certainly no exception.

The most recent moan is that the 60 days visa-exempt policy is responsible for a decline in the number of quality tourists and a rise in the arriving hordes of riff-raff. Yet there is absolutely no evidence that naughty boys need two months to create mischief, or that a reduction to 30 days visa exempt would reduce their quantity. In any case, these guys could easily double their 30 days visa exempt to 60 days by obtaining an easy extension at local immigration. The belief that shuffling round how many days tourists can receive on entry will actually improve the respectability of arriving visitors is a doomscroller's fancy.

Pattaya or Sin City, of course, is well used to being rubbished in the media. The shock-horror began in the 1970s when the News of the World found out there were actually brothels for foreigners in Walking Street. In the 1980s, the magazine Your Travel predicted that the advent of AIDS would drive the cesspool Pattaya back into the stone age. Next came the unsavory publicity about underage boys servicing pedophiles via bars in Sunee Plaza (all of which were permanently closed by 2014). The COVID crisis of the early 2020s also gave rise to the Facebook clairvoyance that Pattaya would remain a permanent ghost city.

City Hall's attempts to reorientate Pattaya's future have been mostly ignored by doomscrollers: they don't want to know about luxurious condos and hotels, family entertainment venues, the expansion of sports facilities, international music festivals and high class restaurants to rival those in Bangkok or most other Asian capital cities. Critics have also ignored the establishment of the internationally-funded Eastern Economic Corridor which has already transformed Pattaya's hinterland with circular roads and improved communications. To the doomscroller, nothing much has happened to change Pattaya since the end of the Vietnam war, except the influx of Chinese and Indian tourists who are invariably seen as bad news.

Nobody denies that night revelry and commercial sex are still part of the vibrant Pattaya scene. But many of the traditional playgrounds have been knocked down in redevelopment programs, whilst Walking Street has radically diversified and now contains many fewer gogo clubs actually still open. These days the main night spots are Soi Buakhao and Soi Six, whilst the gay crowd can relax in Pattaya's Boyztown or Jomtien's Complex. Mayor Poramet Ngampichet believes that the sex trade has declined substantially, as a percentage of gross revenue, and stresses the region's economic growth potential for both Thai and foreign investors.

Of course, Pattaya's transition is far from complete. Many of the same historic problems, flooding in particular, remain in parts of the city. Chaos on the roads is getting worse as traffic police retreat to clamping vehicles and towing away motorbikes rather than actually being on duty. The "new" or "neo" Pattaya may be years away from completion. But the idea that the city is sinking into the abyss is as ridiculous as ever it was.



Re: From Honk to Harm - When a simple car horn turns violent in Pattaya. In many countries, a short honk of the horn is nothing more than a harmless signal — a polite way to alert another driver or express impatience in traffic. But in Pattaya, Thailand’s bustling seaside city known for both its nightlife and chaos, a single honk can quickly spiral into something far more dangerous. For foreigners behind the wheel, this seemingly minor act could provoke road rage, confrontation, or even violence.- Pattaya Mail

Hallo Ola , meine Freundin Lada hatte mir gesagt ich solle nicht Hupen mit den Tuk Tuk das könnte schnell zum Boxing führen
LG Thomas

Ola Jansved <olajnsvd@gmail.com> schrieb am So., 4. Mai 2025, 09:31:

From Honk to Harm – When a simple car horn turns violent in Pattaya

Pattaya MailMay 4, 2025

What's just a beep in your country could be seen as a fight in Pattaya. (File Photo)

PATTAYA, Thailand – In many countries, a short honk of the horn is nothing more than a harmless signal — a polite way to alert another driver or express impatience in traffic. But in Pattaya, Thailand's bustling seaside city known for both its nightlife and chaos, a single honk can quickly spiral into something far more dangerous. For foreigners behind the wheel, this seemingly minor act could provoke road rage, confrontation, or even violence.

Stories abound of minor traffic interactions turning ugly. In one recent case, a foreign driver tapped his horn after being cut off by a local motorbike rider. Instead of an apology or even indifference, he was met with aggressive shouting, intimidation, and an attempted assault. What started as a reasonable response to careless driving nearly turned into a physical altercation — all over a horn.

This isn't an isolated incident. Pattaya's roads are filled with unspoken rules, and for foreigners, not understanding these "norms" can carry unexpected consequences. Unlike in the West, where honking is often used casually, in Thailand — especially in places like Pattaya — the sound of a horn is often taken personally. It's interpreted not as a signal, but as a challenge or insult.

Should Foreign Drivers Adapt to Local Sensitivities?

Absolutely — if they value safety. While no one should have to fear violence over a traffic signal, the reality in Pattaya suggests that self-preservation might require more cultural sensitivity than logic would suggest. Local drivers, especially in chaotic urban settings, often interpret honking as a sign of disrespect. This can trigger knee-jerk reactions, especially when the perceived "offender" is a foreigner.

Pattaya has a long-standing tension beneath its tourist-friendly surface. That tension — combined with high emotions, congested roads, and occasional nationalist undertones — can create a powder keg on the streets. Something as simple as a horn becomes a spark.

Driving in Thailand: Beyond the Rules of the Road

Foreign drivers are advised not just to follow traffic laws but to understand local behavior. Be patient. Let things go. Avoid honking unless absolutely necessary — and even then, consider whether it's worth the risk. Avoid eye contact after a confrontation. Don't engage with anger.

Because while Thailand is known as the "Land of Smiles," on the roads of Pattaya, those smiles can disappear fast.

Cultural sensitivity isn't just polite — on Pattaya roads, it might just keep you safe. (File Photo)



From Honk to Harm - When a simple car horn turns violent in Pattaya. In many countries, a short honk of the horn is nothing more than a harmless signal — a polite way to alert another driver or express impatience in traffic. But in Pattaya, Thailand’s bustling seaside city known for both its nightlife and chaos, a single honk can quickly spiral into something far more dangerous. For foreigners behind the wheel, this seemingly minor act could provoke road rage, confrontation, or even violence.- Pattaya Mail

From Honk to Harm – When a simple car horn turns violent in Pattaya

Pattaya MailMay 4, 2025

What's just a beep in your country could be seen as a fight in Pattaya. (File Photo)

PATTAYA, Thailand – In many countries, a short honk of the horn is nothing more than a harmless signal — a polite way to alert another driver or express impatience in traffic. But in Pattaya, Thailand's bustling seaside city known for both its nightlife and chaos, a single honk can quickly spiral into something far more dangerous. For foreigners behind the wheel, this seemingly minor act could provoke road rage, confrontation, or even violence.

Stories abound of minor traffic interactions turning ugly. In one recent case, a foreign driver tapped his horn after being cut off by a local motorbike rider. Instead of an apology or even indifference, he was met with aggressive shouting, intimidation, and an attempted assault. What started as a reasonable response to careless driving nearly turned into a physical altercation — all over a horn.

This isn't an isolated incident. Pattaya's roads are filled with unspoken rules, and for foreigners, not understanding these "norms" can carry unexpected consequences. Unlike in the West, where honking is often used casually, in Thailand — especially in places like Pattaya — the sound of a horn is often taken personally. It's interpreted not as a signal, but as a challenge or insult.

Should Foreign Drivers Adapt to Local Sensitivities?

Absolutely — if they value safety. While no one should have to fear violence over a traffic signal, the reality in Pattaya suggests that self-preservation might require more cultural sensitivity than logic would suggest. Local drivers, especially in chaotic urban settings, often interpret honking as a sign of disrespect. This can trigger knee-jerk reactions, especially when the perceived "offender" is a foreigner.

Pattaya has a long-standing tension beneath its tourist-friendly surface. That tension — combined with high emotions, congested roads, and occasional nationalist undertones — can create a powder keg on the streets. Something as simple as a horn becomes a spark.

Driving in Thailand: Beyond the Rules of the Road

Foreign drivers are advised not just to follow traffic laws but to understand local behavior. Be patient. Let things go. Avoid honking unless absolutely necessary — and even then, consider whether it's worth the risk. Avoid eye contact after a confrontation. Don't engage with anger.

Because while Thailand is known as the "Land of Smiles," on the roads of Pattaya, those smiles can disappear fast.

Cultural sensitivity isn't just polite — on Pattaya roads, it might just keep you safe. (File Photo)



Thailand Faces Tourism Crisis – Minister Sorawong urges urgent action amid foreign visitor slowdown. Pattaya Mail

Thailand Faces Tourism Crisis – Minister Sorawong urges urgent action amid foreign visitor slowdown

Pattaya MailMay 3, 2025

Minister Sorawong Thienthong chairs a high-level meeting with key tourism industry leaders to address the decline in foreign tourist arrivals.

PATTAYA, Thailand – Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sorawong Thienthong, chaired an urgent meeting with key private-sector tourism associations—such as the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), the Thai Hotels Association (THA), the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), and the Airline Association of Thailand—to address the growing concerns over the sharp slowdown in foreign tourist arrivals to Thailand.

Minister Sorawong acknowledged that the situation is reaching a crisis point. From January 1 to April 27, 2025, Thailand recorded 11,841,911 international visitors—an increase of just 0.12% compared to the same period last year. Despite the stagnation in numbers, total revenue from foreign tourists reached 565.6 billion baht, reflecting a trend toward higher-spending, quality tourists. The top five source markets during this period were China (1.6 million), Malaysia (1.48 million), Russia (865,634), India (729,414), and South Korea (571,409).

The Minister attributed the drop in tourist numbers mainly to safety concerns and negative perceptions spread through international media, particularly in Chinese and English, sometimes due to mistranslations. He emphasized the importance of collaboration across all sectors to improve Thailand's global image and communicate accurate, positive news.

Addressing complaints about the rising costs of travel in Thailand—including accommodation, tourist attractions, and airfare— Sorawong stated that the focus should be on value and fairness rather than low prices. He also proposed reducing the excise tax on aviation fuel and increasing charter flights to attract more tourists. Furthermore, discussions are underway with the Ministry of Transport to standardize public transport fares across land, rail, and sea.

Sorawong warned that if negative media trends persist, they could damage Thailand's overall international reputation beyond just the tourism industry, highlighting the increasing competition from countries like China aggressively targeting the same tourist markets.

From Jan–Apr 2025, Thailand welcomed 11.84 million tourists—just a 0.12% increase from last year, signaling a looming crisis.

Re: Latest news on Thailand Digital Arrival Card. Pattaya Mail

Danke Ola , ich hoffe dir geht es gut 👍 und du bist gesund. LG Thomas und Lada

Ola Jansved <olajnsvd@gmail.com> schrieb am Fr., 2. Mai 2025, 10:27:

Latest news on Thailand Digital Arrival Card

Pattaya MailMay 2, 2025

The introduction of the digital arrival card has been less bumpy than feared.

Same day border hoppers – those obtaining extra time in Thailand by crossing briefly into Cambodia or another neighbouring country – do have to fill in the online TDAC form whilst waiting an hour or two before returning here. Those travelling with an agency may find the TDAC form is filled in by accompanying staff, but those travelling alone will need to deal alone with the new bureaucracy.



Most of those undertaking border runs are Destination Thailand Visa holders seeking another six months' sojourn, visa-exempt foreigners looking for a further 60 days and some multiple entry non-immigrant visa holders who must leave Thailand after three months stay. Immigration officers at land entry points say that the rules and regulations for border hops are under renew by a governmental working party examining visa exempt regulations and their many repercussions. For now, there are no national changes.

In other developments, foreign visitors at Thai airports who have not filled in the TDAC in advance may find computer desks and helpful officers on duty to assist the forgetful and the computer illiterate. The foreign affairs ministry has stated again that the TDAC has to be filled in 72 hours or less (not more) prior to arrival in Thailand. In general, inauguration day on May 1 went smoothly at airports and land and sea entry points, although some passengers believed they must print the confirmatory email to give to the immigration officer on arrival. In fact, it is OK simply to show him or her the email on your mobile phone.


Foreign visitors are reminded by the Thai cyber police about fake websites which charge a processing fee for completing TDAC before absconding with people's biometric information and credit or debit card details. Investigations are underway and at least one fake site has been blocked already. The legitimate TDAC service is presently free but must be repeated before every entry to Thailand. It's http://tdac.immigration.go.th

Latest news on Thailand Digital Arrival Card. Pattaya Mail

Latest news on Thailand Digital Arrival Card

Pattaya MailMay 2, 2025

The introduction of the digital arrival card has been less bumpy than feared.

Same day border hoppers – those obtaining extra time in Thailand by crossing briefly into Cambodia or another neighbouring country – do have to fill in the online TDAC form whilst waiting an hour or two before returning here. Those travelling with an agency may find the TDAC form is filled in by accompanying staff, but those travelling alone will need to deal alone with the new bureaucracy.



Most of those undertaking border runs are Destination Thailand Visa holders seeking another six months' sojourn, visa-exempt foreigners looking for a further 60 days and some multiple entry non-immigrant visa holders who must leave Thailand after three months stay. Immigration officers at land entry points say that the rules and regulations for border hops are under renew by a governmental working party examining visa exempt regulations and their many repercussions. For now, there are no national changes.

In other developments, foreign visitors at Thai airports who have not filled in the TDAC in advance may find computer desks and helpful officers on duty to assist the forgetful and the computer illiterate. The foreign affairs ministry has stated again that the TDAC has to be filled in 72 hours or less (not more) prior to arrival in Thailand. In general, inauguration day on May 1 went smoothly at airports and land and sea entry points, although some passengers believed they must print the confirmatory email to give to the immigration officer on arrival. In fact, it is OK simply to show him or her the email on your mobile phone.


Foreign visitors are reminded by the Thai cyber police about fake websites which charge a processing fee for completing TDAC before absconding with people's biometric information and credit or debit card details. Investigations are underway and at least one fake site has been blocked already. The legitimate TDAC service is presently free but must be repeated before every entry to Thailand. It's http://tdac.immigration.go.th

Fake Thailand Digital Arrival Card website alert. The first fake Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) website has already been spotted on the day that the real system made its debut for foreign visitors to the kingdom. The fake website, claiming to be from an official third-party service provider, asks users to pay a processing fee of US$10 while the real one is free. Bangkok Post

 Fake Thailand Digital Arrival Card website alert

Beware: Any website asking you to pay money for a Thailand Digital Arrival Card, such as the one above, is a scam. (Screenshot) 

The first fake Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) website has already been spotted on the day that the real system made its debut for foreign visitors to the kingdom.

The fake website, claiming to be from an official third-party service provider, asks users to pay a processing fee of US$10 while the real one is free.

The TDAC system replaces the paper TM6 arrival cards that travellers used to fill out. It is required for all foreign nationals entering Thailand by air, sea or land and took effect on May 1.

Travellers can fill out their details at the official TDAC website, after which they will receive an email that they can show on arrival in the country.

Responding to confusion about the deadline for applying, the Immigration Bureau has clarified that applications can be submitted within a three-day period prior to arrival, but not earlier. Some previous reports said applications had to be made at least three days before arrival.

"The system is fully ready, and backup measures are in place to ensure smooth operations. During the initial phase, travellers who encounter any issues can temporarily use a paper immigration form," the Ministry of Tourism and Sports said in a statement.

There are also computer terminals available at Immigration at Suvarnabhumi Airport for travellers who need to fill out a TDAC form when they arrive.

This is the official TDAC website run by the Immigration Bureau.

The Pattaya City Expats Club receives updates on Thailand Immigration, Driving License, and Bank Account matters. In conclusion, Duncan emphasized the importance of staying informed about these changes in immigration and banking processes for anyone living in or traveling to Thailand.- Pattaya Mail

The Pattaya City Expats Club receives updates on Thailand Immigration, Driving License, and Bank Account matters

Pattaya MailApril 28, 2025

Club member Amy Falken presents the PCEC's Certificate of Appreciation to Duncan Foster for his providing updates on Thai immigration, driving licenses, and banking.

PATTAYA, Thailand – On April 23, 2025, Duncan Foster, the director and co-owner of MOT Services, delivered an informative presentation to the Pattaya City Expats Club (PCEC). His talk focused on the latest developments in visa services and immigration processes in Thailand as well as obtaining a Thai driving license and need to have a registered mobile number with a Thai bank account.

Duncan introduced himself and outlined the services provided by his company, which include visa services, driving licenses, immigration assistance, and opening bank accounts. A significant focus of his presentation was the new Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), which replaces the old TM.6 entry card for non-Thais entering Thailand by land, sea, or air. This new requirement applies regardless of how long one has lived in Thailand.

The TDAC is designed to streamline the entry process into Thailand. Duncan recounted his personal experience navigating the TDAC website, noting that while it is user-friendly, some aspects may be challenging for older individuals or those not familiar with digital forms. The TDAC requires three main sheets to be filled out: personal information, travel details, and accommodation information. He emphasized the importance of having all necessary information ready to facilitate a smoother application process.

Duncan highlighted key features of the TDAC, including the submission process, where users receive a TDAC reference number via email, which is crucial for entry into Thailand. He also mentioned the implementation date of May 1st and raised concerns about potential delays at immigration due to the transition. Airlines are informing travelers about the necessity of completing the TDAC, but many may still be unaware of this requirement. He predicted long queues and potential confusion at immigration if the online system fails or if travelers are not prepared.

In addition to the TDAC, Duncan discussed recent changes in banking regulations and driving license processes in Thailand. The Bank of Thailand has tightened regulations to combat scams and money laundering, requiring verification of phone numbers associated with bank accounts. He also noted that many foreigners may face difficulties opening bank accounts or renewing driving licenses under the new rules.

Duncan explained that the process for obtaining or renewing driving licenses has become more complicated, with new requirements for documentation and proof of residency. In the past, one could use the "pink" ID card or House Yellow Book to prove residency. He advised that individuals must now go to immigration for a residency certificate before applying for a driving license.

In conclusion, Duncan emphasized the importance of staying informed about these changes in immigration and banking processes for anyone living in or traveling to Thailand.  To view a video of his presentation on the PCEC's YouTube Channel visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAPGL8mkPcY

The presentation was followed by the Open Forum where questions and comments about Expat living in Thailand can be made.  To learn more about the PCEC, visit their website at https://pcec.club.

Final version of Thai arrival card resolves some issues - Pattaya Mail

Final version of Thai arrival card resolves some issues

April 28, 2025

Thailand wrestles with the pros and cons of a very generous entry and visa system.

Foreigners can now register online for the actual TDAC (Thai Digital Arrival Card) where several grunts and groans have been resolved. Expats are now able, if they so wish, to request Thailand (THA) as their country of residence, whilst the earlier instruction to print your intended departure date from Thailand is no longer mandatory. There are no last-minute reprieves from filling in the TDAC: the only exceptions are those on diplomatic passports, airport transit transfers not proceeding through immigration and foreign traders and stall holders with "border passes".

Other causes of confusion will take time to settle. The term TDAC is sometimes confused with ETA (Entry Travel Authorization) but they are in fact synonymous in Thailand. The dropdown menu of foreign countries for the applicant's passport issuance contains some surprises. For example, Britain is spelt "Britian" and, whilst those countries with a monarchy are mostly so listed, Denmark appears as if it's in republican list. However, these are not serious form-filling blots. TDAC doubles as a health form which could cause some confusion for frequent travellers, although the foreign affairs ministry assures that help is available at major immigration entry points.

Although TDAC was marketed as a hi-tech convenience to visitors – avoiding filling in manual forms at the airport – the immigration bureau has now conceded that it will also target crime. Police major general Choengron RImpadee, chief of the immigration bureau, said TDAC will be synced with the bureau's biometric database which allows checks against criminal backgrounds. But it remains unsure if the new system will significantly dent well-publicized criminal behavior by ill-intentioned foreigners such as use of nominees in businesses, working without authorization and the illegal renting of condominium units for periods less than one month.
Meanwhile, the prime minister has asked several government departments to investigate abuse of the 60 days visa-exempt discretion. It is believed several options are being investigated. These could include maintaining the status quo, limiting extensions and border runs for individuals, or reducing 60 days to 30 days for some or all nationalities. Other suggestions include charging entry fees which could assimilate the long-delayed "tourist entry tax", or making it difficult for visa exempt tourists to transfer to longer-stay visas such as "student" status which is allegedly open to abuse.

Thailand to Verify 700,000 Foreigner-Registered Phone Numbers for Mobile Banking Use. Failure to comply could see their mobile banking services suspended come June. Banks have been instructed to communicate directly with customers whose numbers don’t match up, urging them to update their registration information promptly. ASEAN NOW

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath

 

Brace yourselves, foreign mobile users in Thailand! A sweeping verification is in motion, targeting 700,000 mobile numbers registered since January 1, 2022.

 

The checks, ordered by Thailand's minister of digital economy and society, Prasert Jantararuangtong, could lead to the termination of mobile banking services unless certain criteria are met.

 

The Thai government plans to scrutinise names linked to these mobile numbers and their mobile banking accounts. The aim is to clamp down on technology-related crimes by ensuring that the names on mobile banking services align perfectly with those on corresponding phone registrations.

 

A striking 1.8 million numbers currently lack registration, adding to the urgency of these checks.

 

Introduced on February 1, this regulation requires mobile banking service users to have their information sorted by April 30—this very Wednesday.

 

Failure to comply could see their mobile banking services suspended come June. Banks have been instructed to communicate directly with customers whose numbers don't match up, urging them to update their registration information promptly.

 

Those who don't receive such outreach can continue with their banking activities without worry.

 

This initiative throws a spotlight on Thailand's stringent efforts to stamp out technology crimes, tightening the noose around inconsistent mobile-registration pairs. As the deadline looms, affected users should act fast to avoid disruptions in their digital banking life.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-04-28

Collapsing the 60 days visa exemption only a partial answer. The problem for the Thai authorities is that restricting visa-exempt time scales isn’t straightforward. Would a revision apply to all nationalities, or only to some, or even only to the Chinese? Vacationers from China to Thailand are already in numerical decline and singling them out might prove to be counter-productive. Even if visa-exempt was reduced to 30 days, a further one month’s extension would presumably be available at local immigration. A lot of mischief can occur in two months.- Pattaya Mail

Collapsing the 60 days visa exemption only a partial answer

Pattaya MailApril 24, 2025

Controlling illegal working in Thailand requires a broad-brush approach.

The Thai premier has called for a reduction in the two months' visa exempt stamp which currently applies to over 90 percent of all tourist arrivals. She is concerned about the abuses which lead to foreigners defaulting on work permit regulations or indulging in nominee shareholding deals and allied iniquities.

Adith Chairrattananon, honorary secretary general for Thai travel agents, has agreed that grey businesses require preventive measures such as reducing the visa-free stay for Chinese travellers because of exploitation of loopholes in the rules. He suggests "15-30 days" should be enough for bona fide Chinese vacationers.



Other spokespersons have noted that foreigners, usually but not always Chinese, have been working as non-authorized tour agents and introducing clients to illegal practices such as renting condominium units on a short-term basis or the chance to make money by temporary working. Under current regulations, arrivals receiving 60 days visa-exempt can easily obtain an extra 30 days at local immigration.

The problem for the Thai authorities is that restricting visa-exempt time scales isn't straightforward. Would a revision apply to all nationalities, or only to some, or even only to the Chinese? Vacationers from China to Thailand are already in numerical decline and singling them out might prove to be counter-productive. Even if visa-exempt was reduced to 30 days, a further one month's extension would presumably be available at local immigration. A lot of mischief can occur in two months.

Moreover, much visa abuse is committed by foreigners on longer-stay visas such as Elite, Destination Thailand Visa or even retiree options. None of these allow work-related activity in Thailand but policing the system is proving to be beyond the resources of the immigration bureau or the investigators of the Labour department. Recent non-Chinese examples of malpractice have included a British man with an annual retirement visa who was running several nightclubs.

Immigration lawyer Jessataporn Bunnag believes that the government, in addition to squeezing visa exempt, needs to review the procedure for applying for work permits. "The procedure can be very complex and can take up to two months or even more," he said, "so some foreigners decide to take the risk." Other experts say that Thailand must reform the alien labour legislation to permit foreigners having majority sharers in some companies and to reduce the number of occupations reserved for Thais only.

"If Thailand is to address the very serious problems of visa abuse, she should examine all relevant legislation about employment and not just rely on restructuring the amount of time people can stay here," concluded Mr Bunnag.



International Tourist Arrivals Drop 9 Percent After Earthquake, Sharp Declines from East Asia. During the week of March 25th–31st, when the earthquake occurred, East Asian arrivals sharply declined due to heightened safety concerns amplified on social media. Japan saw a 36% drop, followed by Hong Kong and South Korea at 23%, Singapore 17%, Vietnam 16%, and China at 7%.- The Pattaya News

International Tourist Arrivals Drop 9 Percent After Earthquake, Sharp Declines from East Asia

Kittisak PhalaharnWednesday, 23 April 2025, 21:28

Maya Bay in Krabi

Thailand, April 23rd, 2025 — The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reported that international tourist arrivals in March 2025 fell by 9% year-on-year to 2.72 million, following the earthquake that struck in late March.

During the week of March 25th–31st, when the earthquake occurred, East Asian arrivals sharply declined due to heightened safety concerns amplified on social media. Japan saw a 36% drop, followed by Hong Kong and South Korea at 23%, Singapore 17%, Vietnam 16%, and China at 7%.

Neighboring countries including Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar recorded an average 15% decline, largely due to travel slowdowns through northern land border checkpoints near the quake's impact zone.
European markets also contracted by 4–9%, with travel hesitations anticipated during the upcoming Easter holidays.

Adith Chairattananon, Secretary-General of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), stressed the importance of reassuring global travelers about Thailand's safety. He noted that only one building was seriously damaged in the March 28th quake, and other structures, including hotels and tourist sites, have passed safety inspections. New safety registration systems for car rentals and accommodations will launch May 1st.

He also called for increased government funding to support overseas promotions, especially targeting Asia-Pacific and short-haul markets. Adith warned that potential economic fallout from the US-China trade war may affect long-haul travel, making Asia even more vital.

He also criticized current tourist spending metrics that count two Asian travelers as equal to one European, arguing that many Chinese—especially from lesser-known cities—spend heavily on first-time experiences and souvenirs. Meanwhile, some European tourists, especially backpackers, often travel on tighter budgets, opting for guesthouses over hotels.

Thailand, he said, must actively promote in secondary Chinese cities where online marketing has limited reach, requiring more direct engagement to rebuild the country's tourism image.