The government is drawing up new, clear guidelines for media visas for foreign journalists, but it is not a restriction, foreign ministry spokesman Sek Wannamethee said on Thursday.
Responding to complaints by foreign media of tougher procedures to obtain a media visa, known as an M-visa, Mr Sek said the government has no intention of placing restrictions on foreign journalists, but Thai authorities have their own procedures in considering visa applicants, including for a media visa.
He said all procedures are in line with international practice, including the guidelines which will soon be implemented.
"In view of the changing nature of the media over the years, the definition of what constitutes being a foreign journalist needs to be more precise," Mr Sek said, referring to an increase of media personnel and in particular freelancers.
The spokesman said the ministry has received some complaints about the misuse of media cards by people who were not affiliated with any news service. These were among the factors that led to the setting of new guidelines.
"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in consultation with other Thai agencies, is in the process of drafting guidelines to categorise personnel eligible for a media visa," he said.
Mr Sek said the ministry took note of the concerns expressed by some foreign journalists and had been in contact with the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand on this matter.
"I would also like to underline that the objective of the guidelines are not to restrict, forbid or limit the work of foreign media, or foreigners who work in Thailand with the appropriate type of visa," Mr Sek added.
Some foreign media have criticised the government's strict procedure in issuing M-Visas, and having to apply for work permits from a One Stop Service Centre and for a Thai press card from the Department of Public Relations.
There were occasions when journalists requested a visa extension at very short notice, not 30 days before expiration as the ministry's processing time requires, according to the foreign ministry.