Thailand Intensifies Visa Enforcement With Pattaya Arrest and Bangkok Detention of Russian Nationals

Overview

• Tourist police in Pattaya arrested 47-year-old Vladislav Dobrovolsky, who overstayed by more than two years after entering Thailand on July 5, 2023 with permission to remain until August 3, 2023.
• Officers said Dobrovolsky admitted the violations and will be moved to the Immigration Bureau’s Bangkok holding facility, face court, pay a fine, then be sent to an immigration prison pending deportation to Russia.
• Bangkok police detained Russian citizen Erika Vladyko on October 21 for an overstay after her visa expired on September 22, with authorities stating she will be deported.
• The Russian Embassy previously provided Vladyko consular assistance, facilitated a meeting with her mother, and noted her child was found alone in a hotel room and later taken by the grandmother from a shelter.
• Police reported broader checks in tourist areas, including the detention of 19 Russians on Koh Phangan in one week for immigration violations and suspected unauthorized work.