Thai Immigration Reaffirms 24-Hour Reporting Rule for Foreign Residents

PATTAYA, Thailand – A recent action by Rayong Immigration has highlighted a nationwide requirement that also applies to Pattaya, where thousands of foreign visitors, long-term residents and renters live throughout the year. Homeowners, landlords, property managers and accommodation operators across Thailand are required to report the residence details of foreign nationals staying at their properties within 24 hours under Section 38 of the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979). The reminder follows an inspection by Rayong Immigration officers on July 10, after authorities checked a residence in Thap Ma Subdistrict, Muang Rayong, where foreign nationals were staying. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); The operation was carried out under the direction of Pol. Col. Komwut Chongboonwattana, chief of Rayong Immigration, with investigators checking whether foreign residents had been properly registered at their accommodation. Officers found two foreign nationals who had valid identification documents and were legally staying in Thailand. However, they discovered that a 43-year-old Thai man responsible for managing and arranging accommodation for the foreigners had not reported their residence as required by law. The man admitted that he was responsible for the accommodation but had failed to complete the required notification process. Immigration officers brought him to the Rayong Immigration office to proceed with legal action and a fine. (function(w,q){w[q]=w[q]||[];w[q].push(["_mgc.load"])(window,"_mgq"); Although the inspection took place in Rayong, officials stressed that the same reporting requirement applies nationwide, including Pattaya and Chonburi, where large numbers of international visitors, long-term residents and foreign workers reside. Pattaya property owners, landlords and accommodation providers are reminded that failing to notify immigration authorities of foreign residents within the required 24-hour period may result in legal action. Immigration officials said the reporting system helps authorities maintain accurate records of foreign residents, support public safety and ensure compliance with Thailand’s immigration regulations.