Norwegian man to return home after two-year stay in Thailand

A 44-year-old Norwegian man, Odd Stian Hesseberg, is preparing to return to Norway after living in Thailand for over two years without a permanent residence. Hesseberg had accumulated a visa overstay of 1,179 days.

The situation began when Hesseberg traveled to Thailand to visit a friend in Nakhon Sawan. After losing contact with the individual, he moved to the Pak Kret district in Nonthaburi. His circumstances worsened when his bag, containing his passport and essential documents, was stolen. Without identification or funds, he lived on the streets, sleeping at temples and near the waterfront.

He was located by Thai immigration authorities at Wat Klang Kret after social media posts brought attention to his living conditions. Local temple staff and residents had previously provided food and shelter. Immigration officials are currently coordinating with the Norwegian Embassy to facilitate his repatriation in accordance with Thai law.