A recent discussion on the r/Thailand forum highlights a common dilemma for expats: suspecting a business of breaking immigration rules, but having no idea how to officially report it.

On June 23, a user posted a direct question to the community, asking how to report a nominee structure in Phuket. The user alleged that an Israeli national is using a Thai business setup primarily to secure a visa, while actually conducting unrelated business on the side.

When pressed for more context by other forum members, the original poster kept it brief, replying that the situation is "Exactly like it says."

Because this stems from an anonymous community forum, no official investigations or immigration actions have been confirmed. However, the thread underscores how closely foreign business operations are being watched by the community itself.

What this means for you

If you are living or doing business in Thailand, this public scrutiny is a reminder to keep your own paperwork spotless.

• Nominee structures are illegal: Using Thai citizens as proxy shareholders to bypass the Foreign Business Act is a serious offense. Authorities and community members are increasingly paying attention to these setups.
• Visa mismatches: Your visa and work permit must match your actual daily work. Setting up a company just to get a visa, while working in an unauthorized field, violates both immigration and labor laws.
• Defamation risks: While expats often turn to social media for advice, venting or naming individuals on public forums carries severe risks under Thailand's strict criminal defamation laws. Official complaints are generally handled by the Department of Business Development (DBD) or local Immigration offices.