Three Chinese nationals fined for missing 90-day immigration check-in in Thailand

Three Chinese nationals have recently been fined as part of an ongoing crackdown on immigration violations in Thailand. Acting under the instructions of national deputy police chief Pol. Gen. Surachet “Big Joke” Hakparn, officers in Banglamung and Sattahip have been carrying out weekly checks on Chinese nationals and other foreigners who may be involved in illegal activities or overstaying their visas.

The Banglamung Police force conducted raids on two homes in the Patta Define Village in Takhiantia, located in East Pattaya on April 22. They discovered three Chinese individuals within the properties—Chee Yei, aged 29, Jao Jong Cheung, 28, and Li Jien Lu, 35—who were all found to have legal passports and visas. However, they had failed to complete their mandatory 90-day immigration check-in, resulting in each individual being fined 4,000 baht.

At another property, police officers questioned an unidentified Chinese woman but later determined that she had not committed any immigration offences.

These incidents highlight the Thai government’s increasing focus on immigration compliance and its efforts to ensure that foreigners residing within the country strictly adhere to the applicable regulations. This is particularly relevant due to the global pandemic, which has increased scrutiny on international travel and residency.

It is worth noting that the Thai immigration bureau provides individuals with a straightforward mechanism through which they can complete their 90-day reporting. Foreigners can visit a local immigration office or complete the process online, helping to avoid any potential fines or penalties.

For those residing in Thailand or planning to do so, it is essential to remain vigilant about maintaining one’s immigration status to avoid unintentionally falling afoul of the law. Penalties for violations can range from fines to deportation, depending on the severity of the offence.

Furthermore, the Thai authorities have made it clear that they will continue to target and prosecute foreigners who attempt to exploit the country’s immigration processes, with particular emphasis on those who overstay their visas or have a history of engaging in criminal activities within the country.

The situation involving the three Chinese nationals serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the need for all foreign residents to take the necessary steps to secure their legal status while living in Thailand. By doing so, individuals can enjoy their time in this vibrant and culturally rich nation without having to worry about encountering any unexpected issues with the law.

As authorities continue to crack down on immigration violations, it is more important than ever for foreigners to remain vigilant and ensure they remain compliant with Thai immigration regulations. After all, the price of non-compliance can be costly, both financially and in terms of one’s ability to remain within the country.