World Immigration News

Thailand Immigration Reform Planned as Bangkok Proposes New Interior Ministry Department to Reshape Policy for Travelers, Expats, Refugees

Release Date: 2025-05-06
Media: TTW
Summary: Thailand’s Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has proposed establishing a new immigration department under the Interior Ministry, aiming to centralize and modernize the country’s immigration system. The plan is expected to significantly impact international travelers, expatriates, refugees, and Thailand’s global reputation by replacing the current fragmented, security-focused approach with a more efficient and humane system.

Experts and human rights advocates welcome the proposal as overdue, highlighting how current policies are disorganized and often harsh, particularly toward vulnerable groups like refugees. The reform seeks to improve transparency, reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies, and address corruption within immigration enforcement—an issue seen as a major obstacle to effective governance and international trust.

The proposed department would unify immigration-related responsibilities currently spread across multiple agencies, including the police, foreign ministry, and national security bodies. It would handle everything from visa issuance and work permits to residency, citizenship, and refugee management, with a broader emphasis on administrative, social, and humanitarian concerns.

Humanitarian issues are central to the reform, especially in light of past controversial deportations of Myanmar refugees and Uyghur asylum seekers. Critics argue that a shift away from treating immigration solely as a national security threat is essential to improving Thailand’s international image and aligning with global human rights standards.

Legislation to create the new department is expected to be submitted this year. Swift approval and implementation could enhance Thailand’s attractiveness for tourism, investment, and global talent while also improving protections for at-risk populations. However, experts stress that without serious anti-corruption measures and legal reforms, structural change alone will not be sufficient.
Tags: THAILAND

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