Bangkok: The Department of Employment has issued a directive that applications for the renewal of work permits for nationals from Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam must be submitted by December 11, 2026. Mr. Somchai Morakotsriwan, Director-General of the Department of Employment, underscored the urgency of this deadline, following a Cabinet resolution dated July 14, 2026. This resolution allows for an extension of work permits originally granted until December 11, 2026, under a prior Cabinet resolution from November 11, 2025. The extension will enable these foreign nationals to continue working in the Kingdom until December 11, 2027. Employers and authorized companies facilitating the employment of foreign workers are required to submit renewal applications electronically, along with the necessary documentation and fees, to ensure legal and continuous employment.
According to Thai News Agency, the target group identified in the Cabinet resolution includes foreign workers whose work permits and visas are valid until December 11, 2026, as well as those with valid work permits but without passports. Should a substitute document for a passport become available by July 31, 2026, or if passports expire before the set deadline, the affected individuals will need to follow a specific renewal process.
Key steps in the renewal process include undergoing mandatory medical examinations for prohibited diseases at accredited hospitals, securing health insurance, and submitting applications for work permit renewals through the electronic system. Additionally, applicants must pay an application fee of 100 baht and a work permit fee of 900 baht by the deadline. The application receipt and payment receipt will serve as temporary proof of work, with additional provisions for fishing vessel workers to apply for a seafarer's certificate.
Upon approval by the registrar, foreign workers will be granted a temporary work permit, valid until December 11, 2027. This permit will serve as proof of residency until a permanent work permit is issued. Furthermore, foreign nationals must secure a passport or equivalent travel document and apply for a visa by June 30, 2027, or within 90 days of receiving a new passport, ensuring compliance with personal registration requirements.
The Department of Employment urges employers, businesses, and foreign workers to prepare the necessary documents promptly and adhere to the specified procedures and timelines. Further announcements regarding the submission system's opening will follow. For additional inquiries, contact the Bangkok Metropolitan Employment Offices, provincial employment offices nationwide, or the Department of Employment at 1506, pressing 2.