Phuket Airport to Launch Automatic Border Channels for Departing Passengers

Phuket –

Phuket International Airport Immigration has announced the official opening of Automatic Border Channels (ABC) for outbound passengers, beginning June 13, 2026. The new system, located in the international departure passport control area, is designed to enhance convenience, speed, and efficiency for travelers.

Requirements for Using ABC

  • Passengers must hold an electronic passport (E-Passport).
  • Thai nationals may use all available ABC lanes.
  • Minimum height requirement: 120 centimeters.
  • Oversized baggage taller than 120 centimeters is not permitted through the channel.
  • Pregnant women are not allowed to use the service.
  • Masks, glasses, and hats must be removed before use.

Passport Placement Guidelines

  • Passports must be in good condition and free of covers.
  • Only one passport should be placed at a time.
  • No other items may be placed on the passport.
  • Passports must have at least six months (180 days) validity remaining.

Authorities urge passengers to follow these instructions carefully to ensure smooth, safe, and efficient processing.

In preparation for the ABC installation, parts of the international arrival immigration area will be closed for renovation from now until July 9, 2026. The closure is necessary to accommodate system upgrades and readiness for the new service.

Phuket Immigration apologizes for any inconvenience caused and thanks passengers for their understanding and cooperation.

Related article:

Phuket International Airport has issued a statement addressing recent concerns circulating on social media regarding long queues at immigration checkpoints and allegations of unofficial service fees for expedited clearance.

The original version of this article appeared on our sister website, The Phuket Express, owned by our parent company TPN media.

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Goong Nang Suksawat
Goong Nang is a News Translator who has worked professionally for multiple news organizations in Thailand for more than nine years and has worked with The Pattaya News for more than six years. Specializes primarily in local news for Phuket, Pattaya, and also some national news, with emphasis on translation between Thai to English and working as an intermediary between reporters and English-speaking writers. Originally from Nakhon Si Thammarat, but lives in Phuket and Krabi except when commuting between the three.