KOH TAO, Thailand – Six foreign nationals, one Briton and five Spaniards, have been arrested on Koh Tao for allegedly working as diving instructors without work permits, with authorities stating the suspects were using Destination Thailand Visas intended for remote work but had been teaching diving at businesses on the island without authorisation.

Three Russians Arrested at Phuket Vehicle Rental Shop for Alleged Work Permit Related Offenses

The arrests followed inspections at four targeted premises on Koh Tao by immigration officers, Koh Tao police, Tourist Police, local administrative officials, Department of Business

Development staff, and public health officials from Koh Phangan district.
Police Colonel Naruwat Phutthawiro, chief of Surat Thani Immigration, said the operation was launched after reports on social media of foreigners and migrant workers allegedly working illegally, particularly in the diving sector, as diving operators need suitably experienced and qualified instructors, especially on Koh Tao, which is a globally known diving destination.

Officials expressed concern that unauthorised work could affect tourist safety and the island’s tourism image, with company directors also accused of employing foreign workers without work permits and authorities investigating further to determine whether nominee shareholding arrangements were involved, with legal action to follow if violations are found.

The case serves as a reminder that a visa allowing a stay in Thailand does not automatically permit local employment, as the DTV is designed for remote workers and others who meet its conditions, while undertaking work for a Thai business, including teaching or providing services on the ground, generally requires the appropriate work authorisation. Surat Thani Immigration said enforcement would continue, recording 47 arrests of foreign nationals on Koh Tao between January 1 and August 19, 2026, for alleged offences under foreign employment, immigration, and narcotics laws, as well as other criminal offences.

Chinese Tourists Arrested for Operating Restaurant in Bangkok without Work Permits

The arrests underscore the ongoing scrutiny of foreign workers in Thailand’s tourism industry, particularly in popular destinations where the demand for diving instructors remains high. Authorities have emphasised that strict enforcement of work permit regulations is essential to maintain safety standards and protect employment opportunities for Thai nationals in the diving sector.

-Thailand News (TN)