Thailand has announced plans to legalize between 500,000 and 700,000 undocumented migrant workers from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam, offering them a chance to stay and work legally in the country for up to one year. The registration process will run from October 15 to 29, according to Labour Minister Treenuch Thienthong, who unveiled the initiative following a Cabinet resolution passed on August 19, 2025.
The program aims to solve Thailand’s ongoing labor shortages while ensuring that all workers are covered by legal protections. It targets only those who are already employed in Thailand but lack proper documentation, preventing illegal entries across the border.
Currently, Cambodia alone accounts for about 25% of Thailand’s construction workforce, highlighting how vital migrant labor is to the country’s economy. Minister Treenuch emphasized that bringing these workers into the legal system not only supports stability in the labor market but also strengthens Thailand’s international image regarding humanitarian values and human rights.
Officials from the Department of Employment estimate that around 338,000 migrant workers are currently unregistered. Many of these individuals either let their work permits expire or missed renewal deadlines but continued working. Based on trends from earlier registration drives, the government expects up to 700,000 registrations within the 15-day window.
Employers are required to complete the registration process online via the Department of Employment portal between October 15 and 29, 2025. Once they submit applications and pay the necessary fees, temporary work authorization will be granted until December 28, 2025. Health checks, insurance registration, and biometric data submission will also be mandatory steps in the process.
Successful applicants will receive one-year work permits valid until October 14, 2026. During that time, they must update or obtain personal identification through the Department of Provincial Administration. However, the permits will be canceled if any worker leaves Thailand without obtaining a proper passport or visa from the Immigration Bureau.
In addition, Thailand will launch a new digital work permit system on October 13, 2025, accessible via eworkpermit.doe.go.th. This 24-hour online service will allow employers to apply, check status, and receive approvals without direct contact with officials.
Minister Treenuch stated that the new digital system represents a significant step forward in modernizing Thailand’s foreign labour management, ensuring greater convenience, transparency, and accountability. Employers or workers seeking further information can contact their local employment office or call the Ministry of Labour’s hotline at 1506 (press 2) for assistance.