Following the Thai military’s airstrikes on the disputed border between Thailand and Cambodia last week, the Thai Immigration Bureau announced on Monday (December 15) that, effective immediately, major international airports across the country will strengthen entry checks, especially for Cambodian travelers and those from Eastern Europe and North Asia, in response to security risks arising from the tense situation between the two countries.

‘Bangkok PostAccording to the report, Immigration Department spokesperson Pol Maj Gen Choengron Rimpadee stated that as border conflicts escalate, authorities are concerned that some foreign nationals may use visa-free entry to engage in activities that endanger national security, and therefore have decided to strengthen identity verification.

This measure is primarily implemented at five major international airports: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Hat Yai. Joan Long pointed out that Cambodian travelers entering Cambodia without a visa will face stricter scrutiny; those engaging in legitimate business activities must apply for visas from Thai embassies abroad. Additionally, travelers from Eastern Europe and North Asia are also being closely monitored.

This new measure may increase immigration processing time for travelers other than Thai nationals, from approximately 20 minutes to about 45 minutes. According to statistics, between January 1st and 13th, 185 foreign citizens were denied entry for security reasons. However, the Immigration Bureau emphasized that ordinary tourists are generally not affected.