Bangkok: The Cabinet has announced a significant decision to extend work permits for foreign workers from Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam, impacting over 770,000 workers and aiming to bolster the economy while curbing illegal labor.
According to Thai News Agency, the government is taking proactive measures to renew work permits for these nationalities, alongside drafting two related regulations. These steps are part of a broader strategy to manage foreign workers effectively, with the Department of Employment tasked with launching public awareness campaigns to ensure compliance with the law by both employers and workers.
Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongsalooykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the recent Cabinet decision includes approval for extending work permits for foreign nationals from the three countries, along with two draft regulations proposed by the Ministry of Labour. This initiative aims to address labor demands in the manufacturing and service sectors and support the country's economic growth.
Captain Patthadarasmi mentioned that the resolution is an extension of previous measures approved by the Cabinet on November 11, 2025, which were slated to expire on December 11, 2026. Due to some migrant workers' inability to meet the required conditions within the timeframe, the extension is crucial to prevent them from falling into illegal status, which could disrupt government labor management and business operations.
As of June 30, 2026, approximately 770,000 foreign workers were covered under these measures. The renewal of work permits is expected to allow these workers to continue adhering to legal procedures, reduce negative impacts on businesses relying on foreign labor, and maintain the workforce's continuity in the economic landscape.
Furthermore, the Cabinet has approved two draft announcements: one from the Ministry of Interior concerning special residency permissions for foreigners, and another from the Ministry of Labour regarding specific work permissions. These announcements aim to ensure clarity and consistency in implementing the new measures.
Captain Patthadarasmi also stated that the Cabinet has directed the Ministry of Labour, via the Department of Employment, to expedite efforts to inform employers, foreign workers, and relevant agencies about the criteria, procedures, and timelines. This initiative is designed to facilitate legal compliance and enhance the efficiency of managing foreign labor in the country.