Thailand extends work permits for 770,000 migrant workers including Myanmar by 1 year

The Thai government has approved a one-year extension for the work permits of migrant workers from Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam. This is intended to prevent labor shortages in Thailand and to continue meeting the labor needs of businesses. Thai Labour Minister Julaphan Amonwiwat stated that this program covers approximately 770,000 registered migrant workers from Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam, as per the government's decision on November 11, 2025. According to the government's decision, those whose work permits are valid until December 11, 2026, will be able to continue working in Thailand until December 11, 2027, provided they fully comply with the procedures set by the Department of Employment. The Labour Minister said that many migrant workers have not yet obtained passports or alternative travel documents, and therefore cannot complete the immigration procedures, which are due by July 31, 2026, in a timely manner. He stated that this is why the extension was decided. Those wishing to extend their permits must apply before their current work permit expires, and must complete the process of obtaining a passport (or alternative travel document) and the necessary visa endorsements within the specified period. Until the permanent Smart Card (work permit card) is issued, applicants will be issued a temporary work permit certificate, which can be used as proof of legal work status until biometric registration and the issuance of the Smart Card are completed. The program will come into effect after the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Labour issue relevant announcements. Employers and migrant workers can inquire about the details at employment offices nationwide, or by calling the Department of Employment Hotline 1506 and pressing 2.