Visa Formalities
In spite of the fact that visa formalities are comparatively strict, Thailand is in principle an open country, not only for those coming for short tourist visits but also for those wishing to stay longer. People have stayed for years on ordinary tourist visas without being looked upon with suspicion by immigration authorities. This is the case not only for foreigners from rich countries but also for those from neighboring Asian countries, such as Indonesia, Malaysia or the Philippines.
There are, however, large numbers of immigrants from poor neighboring countries, e.g. Burma and Cambodia who stay without being in possession of any visa or even a passport.
Under Thai immigration law, those who stay illegally are detained for a certain period of time prior to deportation. The stiff fine of 200 Baht per day is imposed on those who overstay their visa. The fine is collected at the airport rather informally. However, without paying, departure is not permitted.
The inclusion of a child or children on a parent’s passport can cause problems if the parent wants to travel out of Thailand without the child or children. Thai immigration laws prescribe that a child sharing a parent’s passport must leave the country with the parent. The solution is to have separate passports issued for children.
No inoculation or vaccination is required unless the foreigner comes from a contaminated or high-risk area.
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