Pakorn reveals plans to amend immigration law to expedite the immediate deportation of detainees, reducing budget burdens. He is preparing to hold discussions with the Ministry of Interior and police next week.
On 19 June 2026 at the Government House, Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt spoke about the Prime Minister's assignment to review and improve immigration laws and related regulations. He said the issue concerns deportation of lawbreakers. Currently, after arrest, detainees remain in custody, but once legal proceedings conclude, deportation is delayed, causing human rights concerns and high costs for detainee care. Because Thailand has an open immigration policy, the Prime Minister has taken an interest in this matter. Similarly, the European Union has amended its laws to expedite deportations.
The Deputy Prime Minister added that Thailand will align its laws with international standards by amending Sections 54 and 55 of the Immigration Act. Currently, the law requires detainees to pay for their own deportation, but in reality, they cannot afford this. Therefore, the law will be changed to allow government funding for deportation to enable faster processing and reduce the costs of detainee care.
Pakorn said he plans to meet with the Royal Thai Police and Ministry of Interior next week and will propose legal amendments as soon as possible. Asked about budget concerns, he said immediate deportation is cheaper than prolonged care followed by deportation, which can last several years. Economically, the faster approach is more cost-effective. When asked about the estimated budget, he said the number of detainees must be reviewed first. He expects deportation costs to be higher in the first year but decrease later as immigration controls become stricter.