The Thai government has launched a new facial recognition technology to improve passenger identification efficiency and reduce wait times at major airports. As of November 1, 2024, six airports—including Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang/Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai—now use automated biometric identification for domestic travelers. International travelers will have access to this system starting December 1, 2024, with immediate availability for Hong Kong SAR and Singapore passport holders. Passengers can enroll by providing facial data and passport scans at airline counters or self-check-in kiosks, with one-time consent required for secure registration. This system is intended for tourists entering Thailand under the visa waiver scheme, offering faster processing and a smoother experience. Long-stay visa holders, including those with Board of Investment (BOI) or non-BOI work permits, spousal visas, or Long-Term Residence status, are advised not to use the automated biometric identification system, as the Immigration Bureau still requires them to present their entry visa endorsement for visa renewals, 90-day reports, and status tracking in Thailand.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
Explore more at Fragomen
Fragomen news
Fragomen news
Fragomen announces the appointment of Leah Rogal as Senior Director of its Center for Strategy and Applied Insights.
Blog post
Destination Services Manager Ali Sikandar discusses how orientation programmes in Saudi Arabia help expatriates adapt to cultural differences, workplace norms and everyday challenges, easing their transition into a new environment.
Blog post
Manager Olga Astapova outlines options for individuals to obtain residency without employer sponsorship, highlighting legal routes and strategic considerations.
Video
Senior Manager Fatima Aydin discusses Ireland's 2025 public consultation on the occupations lists, and how stakeholders such as employers can provide input.
Blog post
Manager Mihaela Dumitru outlines Switzerland's evolving immigration policies and quota adjustments for 2025.
Video
Learn how to apply for German citizenship by descent. Discover eligibility under Article 116 and Section 15, benefits of EU citizenship and the step-by-step application process.
Media mentions
Partner Siobhan Owers discussed how visa reforms are reducing available international staff and creating workforce challenges in the UK care sector.
Video
Senior Corporate Services Manager Zak Hynes explores Dubai’s launch of the “One Freezone Passport."
Video
Senior Associate Isabel Schnitzler discusses how to navigate business travel in Germany.
Awards
Partners Molly Carey and Catherine Macris are finalists for the 2025 New England Legal Awards in the Partner of the Year and Regional Managing Partner of the Year categories.
Media mentions
Matawan Managing Partner Rahul Shah reflects on his path in immigration law and shares his perspective on global mobility.
Fragomen news
Fragomen news
Fragomen announces the appointment of Leah Rogal as Senior Director of its Center for Strategy and Applied Insights.
Blog post
Destination Services Manager Ali Sikandar discusses how orientation programmes in Saudi Arabia help expatriates adapt to cultural differences, workplace norms and everyday challenges, easing their transition into a new environment.
Blog post
Manager Olga Astapova outlines options for individuals to obtain residency without employer sponsorship, highlighting legal routes and strategic considerations.
Video
Senior Manager Fatima Aydin discusses Ireland's 2025 public consultation on the occupations lists, and how stakeholders such as employers can provide input.
Blog post
Manager Mihaela Dumitru outlines Switzerland's evolving immigration policies and quota adjustments for 2025.
Video
Learn how to apply for German citizenship by descent. Discover eligibility under Article 116 and Section 15, benefits of EU citizenship and the step-by-step application process.
Media mentions
Partner Siobhan Owers discussed how visa reforms are reducing available international staff and creating workforce challenges in the UK care sector.
Video
Senior Corporate Services Manager Zak Hynes explores Dubai’s launch of the “One Freezone Passport."
Video
Senior Associate Isabel Schnitzler discusses how to navigate business travel in Germany.
Awards
Partners Molly Carey and Catherine Macris are finalists for the 2025 New England Legal Awards in the Partner of the Year and Regional Managing Partner of the Year categories.
Media mentions
Matawan Managing Partner Rahul Shah reflects on his path in immigration law and shares his perspective on global mobility.