Thailand’s tourism industry is facing growing pressure from the widespread misuse of student visas by foreign nationals who exploit loopholes to work illegally in the country, raising concerns over enforcement failures and reputational damage.

A recent exposé by popular investigative Facebook page CSI LA, which has over 1.3 million followers, revealed that many foreigners enrolled in short university courses—particularly at lesser-known institutions in second-tier provinces—are absent from classes and instead working in unauthorized roles. Following widespread online discussion, one university has already expelled several students from China, Myanmar, India, and Malaysia.

The issue has drawn attention from the People’s Party, which has urged the Ministry of Higher Education to launch an investigation. Critics argue that weak law enforcement has emboldened foreigners to flout visa rules without fear of consequences.

Paisarn Suethanuwong, of the Professional Tourist Guides Association of Thailand, said many of these individuals work illegally as tour guides or even run businesses. He noted that low tuition fees and lax oversight in provincial universities make them attractive targets for visa exploitation.

With Thai universities struggling amid declining birth rates, some are reportedly prioritizing revenue over compliance, actively recruiting international students—particularly from China. However, Mr. Paisarn argued that it is unusual for Chinese nationals to pursue education in Thailand, given the superior global rankings of Chinese universities.

“The real issue lies with ineffective enforcement by both education institutions and immigration authorities,” he said. “While Thailand welcomes foreign tourists, the rule of law must come first.”

Adith Chairattananon, honorary secretary-general of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, warned that ongoing misconduct by some Chinese nationals may fuel negative sentiment online, deterring legitimate Chinese tourists from visiting Thailand and threatening arrival numbers.

To mitigate risks, Mr. Adith proposed stricter law enforcement and a reduction in visa-free stays for Chinese tourists to 15 days, which he said is sufficient for leisure travel while limiting opportunities for abuse.