the last time I done a border entry was just over a year ago, I had my
*****
baht in cash but I witnessed plenty who didn't slipping 200 baht to the IO. If that is not a bribe please tell me what is? I have also witnessed at every 90 day report I have had to do white envelopes stuffed with money being handed to IOs. If Thailand really wants to clean up it's immigration laws maybe it needs to begin with it's own office rather than focusing on people who are contributing to the Thai economy with the money they spend in shops, bars and restaurants. They also need some continuity in their rules which is definitely not in place as can be seen in this post, Penang is strict, Vientiane is easy.
If the Thai officials were genuine they wouldn't take the 200 baht bribes. I would predict this will damage Thailand's already diminishing tourist industry.
I don't know but i will say as much as it is a bollock ache, it is about time. It always amazes me that you need a syphilis test for a work permit but not a criminal background check for a visa?