BANGKOK — Thailand has introduced new procedures for deporting foreigners whose behavior is deemed contrary to public order, public morality or the well-being of the public, under regulations published in the Royal Gazette on 27 August.
The Prime Minister’s Office Regulation on Deportation B.E. 2569 (2026), signed by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on 26 August, sets out procedures for government agencies to enforce deportation laws more quickly and efficiently.
Under Clause 4, foreigners whose conduct or circumstances are considered contrary to public order, public morality or public welfare may be subject to deportation.
The permanent secretary of the Interior Ministry, or an official assigned by the permanent secretary, is required to report such cases to the interior minister for consideration of a deportation order.
The provision also applies to foreigners who use or support such conduct.
The regulation does not define a specific list of behaviors covered by Clause 4, leaving authorities to assess whether an individual’s conduct falls within the grounds of public order, morality or public welfare.
The new rules also establish procedures for foreigners who have been convicted of certain offenses.
Under Clause 5, the interior minister may order the deportation of a foreigner after they have completed a final sentence and been released from prison if they have:
- Entered or remained in Thailand illegally;
- Worked illegally;
- Operated a business illegally;
- Forged or used forged government documents;
- Committed an offense punishable by five years or more in prison; or
- Acted as a principal, instigator or accomplice in such offenses.
Prison authorities must notify the Interior Ministry of relevant foreign inmates at least 50 days before their release so deportation proceedings can be considered.
The regulation also allows deportation orders to include a ban on re-entering Thailand.
However, Clause 6 requires authorities to take into account Thai laws and regulations, Cabinet resolutions and Thailand’s obligations under relevant international law when issuing deportation orders.
The rules further provide exceptions concerning people who could face torture, cruel or inhumane treatment, degradation or enforced disappearance if returned to their country.
Under Clause 8, another country or an international organization may request through diplomatic channels that Thailand send a deportee to its territory or a third country, provided the request is made within seven days of the deportation order, the requesting party agrees to cover relevant expenses, and the deportee gives written consent.
The regulation took effect on 28 August, the day after its publication in the Royal Gazette.