The community discusses the recent appointment of Big Joke as the head of immigration in Thailand, expressing cautious optimism about potential changes. While some members support stricter enforcement against illegal immigration, they also urge for consistent regulations across regional offices to ease the process for legal expats. Concerns are raised about the actual implementation of any promised reforms and the impact on those following the rules.
I have absolutely no problems with rounding up illegal overstay,working without permits etc and kicking them out. Some should be permanently barred.
BUT for those of us here legally just trying to meet the requirements stop making it so hard. Phuket I don't need TM 30, Chiang Mai I do. Proof of income document from consulate is not sufficient 1 place OK another. And even in the same office there is variation.
I would love to sit down and talk to this guy. I lived in a US border state with Mexico. I have seen it all.
Phuket is one of the hard core cities of TM30, it is even the only Immigration Office that require a Power of Attorney with the 10 Thb tax stamps if the owner of the house does not join you.
Last year after a whole host of problems, the PM said The ministry of Home affairs and immigration must get a system in place and start working together. Wether that has happened, who knows? For sure though, this guy is one of his favourite rising stars and nobody can dispute his commitment to getting things done.
The ask:thailand community, consisting of multiple Q/A groups with over 100,000 members, powers this platform. It is not an official government resource. Our members actively contribute to this resource, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its complete reliability. Assistance to travelers is provided as a community service.