Thai visa applicants must make social media public under new US rules

11 Sept 20:32 Key points summarised by AI

Thai nationals applying for US visas are now required to make their social media profiles public as part of expanded screening measures.
Effective March 30, this policy extends to a wider range of nonimmigrant visa categories, mandating applicants to adjust privacy settings for review.
The US Department of State implemented these changes to identify potential national security or public safety threats, emphasizing that visa adjudication is a critical security decision and a privilege.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.