British National Arrested for Record 25-Year Visa Overstay in Thailand

A British man was arrested in Thailand after overstaying a 30-day visa for 25 years. The 60-year-old lived in Thailand since 2000, mainly in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, without legal authorization. He will be deported back to the UK after facing charges for visa overstay.

A British citizen was apprehended in Thailand for overstaying his 30-day visa by an astonishing 25 years, marking a new record, according to Thai police. The individual, now aged 60, entered Thailand on January 9, 2000, and evaded detection until his recent arrest. Previously, the longest recorded overstay was held by a Pakistani man who overstayed by 10 years.

The arrest occurred in Chiang Mai, where the man had resided for the last 12 years. Initially living in Bangkok for 13 years, he established a life with a local woman and fathered a child. Currently, he does not have an occupation and relies on financial support from his family in the United Kingdom, as stated by authorities.

Thai immigration officials reported that the man was found during a routine inspection in Chiang Mai, which has a population of approximately 1.2 million residents. He faces charges for remaining in the country without legal permission following the expiration of his visa.

Authorities revealed that the man failed to apply for a visa extension post Arrival and held a renewed passport that he acquired in 2018. He is expected to be deported back to the UK soon after undergoing legal proceedings at the Chiang Mai City Police Station.

His identity remains undisclosed as investigations into how he managed to stay in Thailand undetected continue. This incident emphasizes the necessity for strict enforcement of immigration laws in Thailand and a comprehensive review of immigration processes.

In summary, a British man has been arrested in Thailand for overstaying his visa for 25 years, which is a record-breaking duration. His situation sheds light on the challenges of immigration enforcement and highlights the need for better regulatory measures. Following his arrest, he is expected to face legal proceedings before deportation back to his home country.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk