New Thai deportation rules could target two groups of Myanmar nationals

By Admin 31 Aug 2026

DMG Newsroom

31 August 2026, Bangkok

The Thai government enacted new legal regulations containing six provisions on August 28, authorizing the deportation of foreign nationals who violate domestic laws.

The new regulations took effect on August 28 following the Thai Prime Minister's signature on August 26 and their official publication in the Royal Thai Government Gazette on August 27.

Under the new deportation regulations, foreign nationals convicted of illegal entry in violation of Thai immigration laws, unauthorized employment in violation of labor regulations, or business law infractions will face deportation.

Furthermore, individuals involved in forging or using counterfeit passports and official documents, or those convicted of offenses carrying prison sentences of five years or more, will also be subject to deportation.

Thailand-based organizations believe the Thai government's new deportation rules could particularly affect two groups of Myanmar nationals: those who fled the country following the coup and anti-regime political activists.

"Looking at this law, it is certainly not innocent. It appears closely linked to Min Aung Hlaing's visit to Thailand. Based on their meetings, Thailand might be seeking to demonstrate through action that it acknowledges Min Aung Hlaing's requests," said Ko Saw Tun, chairman of the Thailand-based All Arakan Students' & Youths' Congress (AASYC).

Millions of Myanmar nationals reside in Thailand across various sectors, including migrant workers, political activists, social advocates, and Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) participants. The Thai government's new deportation rules could directly affect these Myanmar nationals.

The rollout of the new Thai regulations came 20 days after former junta chief and self-appointed President Min Aung Hlaing conducted a two-day official visit to Thailand on August 6 and 7.

Thailand-based organizations assess that the deportation rules could restrict and slow down operations and support mechanisms led by Myanmar revolutionary figures and human rights activists.

"For people living in Thailand, even if they hold valid documentation, authorities can still find fault or grounds for arrest if they intend to do so. Myanmar nationals living in Thailand live in constant anxiety. The impact did not start only with this law; they lacked freedom and lived in constant fear even before this," said an Arakanese resident in Thailand.

Since the military junta enacted the People's Military Service Law in 2024, Myanmar nationals arrested and deported from neighboring countries have been systematically funneled into military conscription training camps upon return.

In the wake of the military coup, large numbers of Myanmar citizens have fled overseas, with Thailand serving as the primary destination. As Myanmar nationals seek refuge abroad to escape military oppression, they continue to face compounding hardships.