Report highlights misuse of student visas

Universities in provinces targeted

- MOLPASORN SHOOWONG

The tourism industry has been directly impacted by the large number of foreigners exploiting student visas to illegally work in Thailand, mostly targeting universities in second-tier provinces.

This issue was exposed by investigative Facebook page CSI LA, describing the tactics of foreigners who applied for short courses at universities, but were absent from classes.

This report was heavily discussed on social media until the university decided to investigate and expel some foreign students, including those from China, Myanmar, India and Malaysia.

Paisarn Suethanuwong, a committee member of the Professional Tourist Guides Association of Thailand, said many foreigners exploit student visas to work here, including as tour guides and business owners.