– What it means for Brits relying on visa runs to key border crossings like Ban Laem (It’s not only tourists – DTV holders take note)
If you’re a UK expat in Thailand who does a border run every 6 or 12 months – particularly via Ban Laem in Chanthaburi – there’s important news that could disrupt your visa plans.
Thailand has just announced the temporary closure of 6 permanent and 10 temporary border checkpoints with Cambodia, following a military clash near Chong Bok on 28 May, which resulted in the death of a Cambodian soldier and injuries to others.
This has triggered nationalist backlash in Cambodia, with widespread calls to boycott Thai products – and now, Thai authorities have acted quickly to close several crossings over safety concerns for their citizens doing trade at the border markets and nearby.
Which border crossings are closing?
The closures affect some of the most-used land crossings for visa runs and cross-border trade.
6 permanent checkpoints closed:
- Ban Laem (Chanthaburi) – a major crossing for expats doing 6-month/annual visa runs
- Ban Khlong Luek / Aranyaprathet (Sa Kaeo) – popular for re-entry from Poipet
- Chong Chom (Surin)
- Ban Phak Kad (Chanthaburi)
- Chong Sa Ngam (Sisaket)
- Ban Hat Lek (Trat) – near Koh Kong
Plus 10 temporary crossings:
These are smaller local points, but often used by traders and border residents:
- Chong An Ma (Ubon Ratchathani)
- Ban Ta Phraya (Sa Kaeo)
- Ban Nong Plue (Sa Kaeo)
- Ban Khao Din (Sa Kaeo)
- Ban Sap Tari (Chanthaburi)
- Ban Bueng Chanang Lang (Chanthaburi)
- Ban Suan Som (Chanthaburi)
- Ban Muen Dan (Trat)
- Ban Cha Mong (Trat)
- Chong Sai Taku (Buri Ram)
Why does this matter for UK expats in Thailand?
Many British nationals on tourist visas or visa exemptions rely on these land crossings to do what’s known as a “border bounce” – a quick exit and re-entry into Thailand to extend their stay.
Popular points like Ban Laem and Aranyaprathet are frequently used because they’re relatively simple, low-cost, and visa-friendly.
But with these crossings now shut:
- You may need to fly instead (e.g. to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, or Laos), which is more expensive
- You’ll need to allow more time – no quick day trips across the border for now
- It’s essential to check with Thai immigration or a visa agent before making any plans
BA Tips if you’re affected:
- Switch to air-based visa runs – not ideal, but flights to Vientiane or KL are still viable
- Double-check all your documents – make sure your re-entry paperwork is in order
- Plan well in advance – these closures could be in place for some time
- Don’t risk overstaying – the fines are high and overstaying can lead to bans
What happens next?
It’s not yet clear how long the closures will remain in effect. They’ve been described as a precaution following a serious border incident, and much will depend on how the political situation between the two countries evolves.
We’ll keep this page updated as more is confirmed.
Bottom line: If you’re a Brit in Thailand relying on Cambodian land borders for visa runs, you’ll need to rethink your next move. Plan ahead, explore alternative routes, and don’t leave it until the last minute.
Explore our recommended immigration agents and keep up to date on their service changes due to the recent military clashes.
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