Thailand has revoked the citizenship of Rabbi Yosef Chaim Kantor, the country’s longtime chief rabbi and head of the Chabad movement, following an investigation into his continued use of an American passport after obtaining Thai nationality.

The decision, signed by Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has attracted international attention because Kantor has lived in Thailand for more than three decades and played an important role in supporting the country’s Jewish community.

Why Was His Citizenship Revoked?

According to Thailand’s Interior Ministry, Kantor obtained Thai citizenship through naturalisation in 2013.

However, investigators reportedly identified 16 occasions on which he used his American passport to travel to and from Australia after becoming a Thai citizen.

Authorities said this violated the conditions attached to his naturalisation.

Thailand’s Nationality Act allows the government to revoke citizenship acquired through naturalisation when certain legal conditions are breached.

The citizenship revocation order was announced on October 29, 2026, following the minister’s decision on October 28.

Government Expands Its Investigation

The citizenship decision comes amid a broader investigation into businesses and property ownership linked to Kantor.

Thai authorities are examining 19 companies associated with him, along with landholdings and the citizenship status of certain relatives who obtained Thai nationality through him.

Officials are investigating whether business ownership arrangements comply with restrictions on foreign ownership in Thailand.

Authorities have stated that no assets have been seized so far.

Importantly, Kantor has not been accused of wrongdoing in the separate business investigation.

Chabad Responds to the Decision

The global Chabad-Lubavitch movement expressed disappointment over the revocation and said it was addressing the matter through appropriate legal channels.

The organisation also emphasised its respect for Thailand, its institutions and its legal system.

Chabad centres and synagogues across Thailand are continuing their normal activities, providing religious, educational and community services.

A Wider Debate Over Citizenship and Foreign Ownership

The development comes as Thailand increases scrutiny of foreign nationals, property ownership arrangements and businesses suspected of using local citizens as nominees.

Thai regulations generally restrict foreign ownership of land and certain businesses. Authorities have indicated that enforcement measures are intended to ensure compliance with national laws.

The case has also raised questions about the responsibilities attached to naturalised citizenship and the legal consequences of continuing to use a former nationality.

What Happens Next?

Kantor’s citizenship case is now being addressed through legal channels, while investigations into associated companies and property holdings continue.

The outcome could have implications for how Thailand applies its naturalisation requirements and enforces regulations involving foreign business ownership.

For now, the case represents a significant development in Thailand’s immigration and citizenship enforcement, involving a religious leader who has spent more than 30 years serving the country’s Jewish community.