VPI Event Co., Ltd., the organizer behind the Thai concerts of the Russian rock band Bi-2, confirmed that the artists were held by authorities due to an issue with visa issuance. The information originated from the organizers’ Telegram channel, which explained the situation to followers and fans.
According to the statement, the Bi-2 members entered Thailand using tourist visas rather than work permits. This discrepancy ran afoul of Thai immigration regulations and prompted a formal response from Thai authorities. The company accepted responsibility for the mishap and the resulting complications, emphasizing that steps would be taken to prevent repetition of such errors in the future.
On January 25, Thai authorities detained several members of Bi-2 while plans to perform in Pattaya and Phuket were being processed. It later emerged that the group did not possess the required work permits for a paid performance, which triggered immigration and legal review in the country.
The Phuket Provincial Court subsequently issued a monetary fine equivalent to approximately 588 USD to the musicians. At the same time, the Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Phuket indicated that there was a risk of deportation facing the Bi-2 members, underscoring the seriousness of the visa irregularity and its potential consequences for their travel and professional engagements.
During the same period, the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced an offer to assist the Bi-2 participants, expressing an interest in facilitating their deportation to Israel rather than returning them to the Russian Federation. This proposition was discussed in the context of diplomatic channels, but Thai authorities subsequently moved away from that plan after a visit by representatives from the Russian consulate, which helped to reassess the situation and identify a path forward within Thai law.
In the wake of these developments, the Bi-2 team faced a challenging travel scenario as they navigated immigration procedures, potential deportation, and options for resolving their status within Thailand. The incident highlighted the importance of correct visa categorization for performers and the complex interplay between immigration rules, consular diplomacy, and on-the-ground enforcement. Observers noted that such situations can carry serious professional and personal implications for artists, including the possibility of cancellations, fines, and delays in touring schedules. The episode also served as a reminder to festival organizers and promoters to verify visa classifications and work authorization well in advance of scheduled concerts to ensure a smooth experience for international acts and local audiences alike. As discussions continued among legal representatives, consular offices, and event organizers, a cooperative approach emerged aimed at securing a lawful resolution that would allow Bi-2 to complete their planned performances while complying with Thai regulations. Such outcomes typically involve coordinated steps, including clarifying work-permit requirements, aligning with local labor laws, and arranging interim accommodations that respect both the artists’ commitments and the host country’s legal framework. The broader takeaway for the international music scene was clear: meticulous planning and early verification of visa status are essential when touring across borders to avoid disruptions and safeguard the integrity of live events. The episode concluded with ongoing efforts from all parties to finalize a compliant path forward for Bi-2 within the Thai event schedule and immigration system, ensuring that performances could proceed with proper documentation and legal clearance. The experience left organizers and artists alike more aware of the practical realities of cross-border performances and the importance of adhering to local legal standards for visas and work permissions, which ultimately supports smoother cultural exchange and fan engagement in the region.