In a shocking incident, a 60-year-old New Zealander, Mr. Grant, was arrested by the Immigration Police Investigation Team in Pattaya for overstaying his visa by a staggering 2,173 days. The arrest took place on May 10, 2024, in front of a convenience store on Soi 8, Jomtien Beach Road, Pattaya.
Mr. Grant, who had been living in Pattaya, claimed that he never thought he would be caught because he led a reclusive life, avoiding social interactions and only venturing out at night to buy essentials. However, his attempt to evade the authorities ultimately failed, and he now faces the consequences of his actions.
The Immigration Police officers, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Weerachai Thinkamut, Inspector of Chonburi Immigration, have been cracking down on foreigners who overstay, commit crimes, or work in occupations reserved for Thais. The goal is to make Pattaya a safe and livable city, reducing transnational crime in the process.
Mr. Grant’s case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of complying with Thailand’s immigration laws. Retirees, like Mr. Grant, can stay in Thailand on a Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” (Long Stay), which allows them to stay for a period of not exceeding 1 year without the intention of working. However, they must meet certain requirements, including having an income or retirement funds of at least 65,000 baht per month or a combined pension deposit of not less than 800,000 baht per year.
In 2016, Thailand introduced the Non-Immigrant Visa “O-X” (Long Stay 10 years), also known as the Non-O-X Visa, which allows nationals from 14 countries to stay in Thailand for a maximum period of 10 years. To be eligible, applicants must meet specific financial requirements, including having an income or retirement funds of at least 100,000 baht per month or a combined pension deposit of not less than 3,000,000 baht per year.
Mr. Grant’s case highlights the importance of understanding and complying with Thailand’s immigration laws. His 5-year overstay has resulted in his arrest and deportation from the country. This incident serves as a warning to all foreigners living in Thailand to ensure they are aware of and comply with the relevant visa requirements to avoid facing similar consequences.
In conclusion, the incident involving Mr. Grant is a sobering reminder of the importance of respecting Thailand’s immigration laws. It is essential for foreigners living in Thailand to understand and comply with the relevant visa requirements to avoid facing legal consequences, including arrest and deportation.