In a crackdown for illegal workers, Thailand is now tightening the rules on "visas on arrival". In the past, visitors from about 57 countries can enter Thailand for 30 days without charge. However, it is found that many of these "visitors" are actually owners of businesses or workers in Thailand. What has happened is that most of these "visitors" participate in what is called a visa-run every 28 days.
The new rules that is coming in place from October 1st 2006 is to limit these "visas on arrival" to 90 days over any six month period. So, anyone who stays more than 90 days will have to be out of Thailand for a period of 90 days before they are allowed to enter. However, if you have a proper tourist visa (which can be obtained from your country or neighbouring countries over here), you will have a chance of staying more than 90 days.
Each tourist visa that is issued by Penang or Kuala Lumpur is currently for a period of 2 months. However, nothing has been mentioned as to whether a visitor can continue to apply for a tourist visa every 2 months. This is something that is still unknown and not discussed.
There are many opinions about this matter and especially on how it will affect the tourist business in Thailand. My personal opinion is that anyone who wishes to stay here and work here should be legal. This means the person should apply for the non-immigrant visa and work permit and hence, pay the taxes to the government. However, I have come across many "visitors" who stays in Samui because of health issues, wanting to be with their Thai girlfriend or simply because they like the island. These will be the ones who will be badly affected by the new ruling unless they are allowed to renew the tourist visa every 2 months.
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