Business Desk 
Jan 26, 2025
Thailand has launched a strict crackdown on Pakistanis using forged documents, particularly e-visas, traveling to the country. The Thai consulate in Pakistan has implemented new measures requiring applicants to submit original documents, such as genuine airline tickets and hotel bookings to avoid being flagged.
However, those who attempt to use fake documents or work with travel agents facilitating these actions will be blacklisted.
Thailand cracks down on fake e-visas from Pakistan
This crackdown follows a series of incidents involving counterfeit visas. In October 2024, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan arrested two individuals at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport for attempting to board flights with fake visas.
Moreover, the rise in visa fraud has prompted Pakistan’s FIA to issue its first travel advisory in 20 years. The advisory outlines stricter passenger monitoring for travelers aged 15-40, especially those using FlyDubai and Ethiopian Airlines, and those with tourist, religious, or educational visas to high-risk countries.
It has also identified transit hubs for human trafficking, including regions like Libya, Ethiopia, and Russia. Specific Pakistani cities, such as Gujrat and Sialkot are now under closer scrutiny.
Furthermore, this crackdown is part of a wider effort to combat illegal activities like human trafficking. Last week, over 200 Pakistanis were deported from countries like the United States, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia due to visa violations. Many were arrested upon arrival in Pakistan, highlighting the growing concern over fraudulent travel documents.
