Thais overstay their welcome

24 Oct 2013  2042 | World Travel News

 Japan’s immigration police say they will crackdown on Thai visitors who have abused the recently granted visa exemption by entering the country to seek illegal work.

Thailand’s Immigration Bureau chief Panu Kerdlappol said his Japanese counterparts were planning strict measures to screen Thai nationals visiting the country after some visitors abused easy entry to take up employment or engage in illegal activities.

“The measures will include stringent checks on proof of accommodation and return trip tickets. Those who fail to produce documents may be refused entry and sent back immediately,” he warned.

The measure are being implemented after Japanese authorities estimated an average of 50 Thai citizens had overstayed their visas each month since the visa waiver was implemented on 1 July this year.

In July, Japan exempted Thais from visa requirement but only for a 15-day leisure trip. It prompted a sharp increase in tourist arrivals from Thailand, but it has resulted in around 200 people abusing the system to sneak into the country to seek employment.

The Japanese authorities have decided against revoking the visa waiver for the time being, but it looks very likely that a few illegals could ultimately spoil what was a very convenient user friendly concession for Thai travellers.

Thai government officials at the time warned in news reports that it would turn out this way, claiming Japan would eventually have to rescind the facility due to rampant abuse by Thais who take advantage of an easy entry environment to work illegally overseas.

Thailand’s Immigration Bureau urged Thais to respect the visa-free privilege and to refrain from breaking the rules, which will eventually sour Bangkok’s relationship with Tokyo.

Japan relaxed visa requirements for a number of Southeast Asian countries this year, as part of efforts to boost tourism to promote the country’s economic growth strategy.

The waiver is granted to Thais who plan a short visit to Japan for a period of 15 days only. It cannot be extended. There have been no reports on abuses in the other countries that gained the same privilege.

Sourced: ttrweekly

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