The Lunar New Year holiday this year offers a 9-day break, and I intend to visit Thailand. However, I have heard that Vietnamese travelers to Thailand might have their names match entries on the customs blacklist, potentially leading to denied entry. This is my first trip to Thailand, and I have never violated any laws in Vietnam, yet I remain concerned about this risk. What should I do if I find myself in this situation?

This question comes from reader Nguyen Van Phong, TP HCM.

Thailand is tightening immigration control for international visitors, particularly those suspected of security concerns, overstaying, working illegally, or using tourist visas for long-term residency and employment, according to Pham Anh Vu, Deputy General Director of Du Lich Viet.

Such individuals may face denied entry, fines, deportation, inclusion on a blacklist, or a temporary ban from re-entering Thailand. The duration of such bans varies depending on the specific case.

Thailand is a favorite destination for Vietnamese tourists due to short flights, numerous routes, and affordable prices. Photo: Thailand Go.

For first-time visitors to Thailand who have not violated laws in Vietnam, the probability of being added to the blacklist is "very low," although there is still a risk of a name matching someone else in the system, Mr. Vu stated.

A representative from Du Lich Viet explained the standard customs procedure if a traveler's name matches a blacklist entry:

1. The traveler will be taken to a private room and questioned thoroughly about:

- The purpose of the trip

- The duration of stay

- Accommodation, and itinerary for the days in Thailand

- Financial means, including cash or a visa card

2. Thai customs may request travelers to present documents such as a round-trip air ticket, hotel booking confirmation, a minimum amount of cash, and contact information in Thailand.

Independent travelers should prepare:

- A printed or clear PDF copy of their round-trip ticket

- Hotel booking confirmation

- A planned itinerary

- A minimum of approximately 700 USD in cash or its equivalent. Mr. Vu clarified that Thailand has, at times, required visitors to demonstrate this amount of cash upon entry.

Steps to take if detained:

- Respond clearly and truthfully about the purpose of your trip, and remain calm

- Present all documents proving your intention to travel for tourism and return home.

If entry is still denied, customs will require the traveler to return on the same flight or the next available one. The traveler must cover these costs, and last-minute tickets are often very expensive.

For tour group travelers, if a name match occurs, the accompanying tour guide and the operations team in Vietnam will immediately coordinate with Thai authorities. The tour guide will provide the group list, tour booking, itinerary, and partner contracts to demonstrate that the traveler's visit is for genuine tourism.

Tour group members whose names match a blacklist entry generally have a higher success rate for entry compared to independent travelers. This is because group documentation is clear, and a tour operator guarantees the tour information. For first-time visitors to Thailand, traveling with a reputable tour operator remains the safest option if concerns about name matches or blacklisting arise.

According to Mr. Vu, many foreigners have exploited the 30-day visa exemption policy to stay and work illegally, operate unregistered businesses, or engage in criminal activities. Some travelers, nearing the end of their permitted stay, travel by bus to the nearest immigration checkpoint to exit and immediately re-enter. This restarts their 30-day visa-exempt period. Individuals who repeatedly engage in this process risk being added to the blacklist.

Beyond Thailand, countries such as Japan, South Korea, and the European Union are also tightening regulations against those who exploit visa exemption loopholes or enter on tourist visas but remain to work.

To ensure a smooth trip and avoid issues with Thai authorities and other countries, Mr. Vu advises Vietnamese travelers to:

- Travel for the exact number of days permitted under the exemption; if staying longer, apply for the correct visa type.

- Activities like selling goods or working as a tour guide without proper authorization from the host country may be considered illegal labor, leading to deportation and a ban on re-entry.

- Always prepare a round-trip air ticket, hotel booking, accommodation address, sufficient cash, and a visa card.

- Absolutely avoid carrying or being involved with drugs or prohibited items.

- If you have previously overstayed or worked without a permit in Thailand, you should discuss this frankly with your tour operator to assess the risk before booking a tour.

Vietnamese tour companies will also refuse to sell tours to Thailand to customers suspected of intending to stay long-term or who have previously overstayed, in order to avoid legal complications.

"The blacklist does not concern everyone, as these tightened regulations primarily target violators. However, if travelers are careless, unprepared, or accidentally give misleading answers, even a first trip to Thailand can turn into an unpleasant experience right at immigration," Mr. Vu said.

Phuong Anh