BANGKOK Thailand’s Cabinet has approved an extension of work permits for approximately 770,000 migrant workers from Laos, Myanmar and Việt Nam, aiming to ensure a stable labor supply for the country’s manufacturing and service sectors.
The decision, announced following a proposal from the Ministry of Labour, also includes new regulations from the Ministries of Interior and Labour allowing eligible foreign workers to continue living and working legally in Thailand while completing the required legal procedures.
The move builds on labor management measures introduced in November 2025, which were originally scheduled to expire on December 11, 2026. Officials said the extension is necessary because many workers have not yet been able to complete the required documentation within the original timeframe.
According to Thai government data, around 770,000 migrant workers qualified under the policy as of June 30. Authorities believe the extension will help businesses maintain a reliable workforce while ensuring better management of foreign labor across the country.
HanoiPost reports that the Thai government has also instructed the Ministry of Labour to strengthen public awareness campaigns, providing employers and migrant workers with clear guidance on eligibility requirements, application procedures and implementation timelines to ensure smooth compliance with the updated regulations.
