In spite
of the fact that visa formalities are comparatively strict,
Thailand is in principle an open country, not only for those coming
for short tourist visits but also for those wishing to stay longer.
People have stayed for years on ordinary tourist visas
without being looked upon with suspicion by immigration authorities.
This is the case not only for foreigners from rich countries but
also for those from neighboring Asian countries, such as Indonesia,
Malaysia or the Philippines.
There are,
however, large numbers of immigrants from poor neighboring
countries, e.g. Burma and Cambodia who stay without being
in possession of any visa or even a passport.
Under Thai
immigration law, those who stay illegally are detained
for a certain period of time prior to deportation. A fine of 100
Baht per day is imposed on those who overstay their visa.
The fine is collected at airports and at border crossings rather
informally. However, without paying, departure is not permitted.
The inclusion
of a child or children on a parent's passport can cause problems
if the parent wants to travel out of Thailand without the child
or children. Thai immigration laws prescribe that a child sharing
a parent's passport must leave the country with the parent. The
solution is to have separate passports issued for children.
No inoculation
or vaccination is required unless the foreigner comes from
a contaminated or high-risk area.
