Thread: Tourists may have to prove they have enough money to enter Thailand

Well if you're going to shuffle about looking for leaves and stems, surely roots and berries aren't off the menu?

Originally Posted by Neo

It has been reported that immigration officials at Padang Besar were pulling tourist visa holders aside on Friday 14 July, taking anyone who could not show they had 20,000 baht in cash away for questioning.

Yep. Went to Malaysia through Padang on Friday. I have a one year marriage visa, so not a tourist. Not only did the boss demand to see 20 000, he also said my multi-entry visa no longer allows a day trip, and that I had to spend a night in Malaysia.
Polite talking got me my entry stamp, but it was a nervous hour.

Originally Posted by Loy Toy

And fair enough!

No. If it was 30 day tourists, to try to stem beg-packing, yes, but at Padang they have erected a sign saying the regulation is for tourists AND those on non-immigrant visas.

Originally Posted by harrybarracuda

I suspect they only pick on slobs and unwashed backpackers.

No, wife and I were well dressed for a day of shopping. As it was the King's birthday, we both felt we should look smart, just in case someone thought we were disrespectful. All westerners are directed to the boss man's office. Good for skipping the queues, but it's a targeted wrought aimed at all non ASEAN people. Group of Indians got pulled aside too.

Originally Posted by harrybarracuda

Well if you're going to shuffle about looking for leaves and stems, surely roots and berries aren't off the menu?

Well, I suppose the OP covers Kiwi sex-tourist who eats roots and leaves.

Originally Posted by Maanaam

wife and I were well dressed for a day of shopping