21 February 2026 - The Foreign Workers’ Management Policy Committee has approved an extension for migrant workers from Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam to complete work permit requirements, covering more than 300,000 individuals. The measure will be submitted to the Cabinet for approval to prevent labor disruptions and protect production stability.

The extension covers the submission of health insurance documents and medical examination results, as well as the payment of the 900-baht work permit fee. The original deadline of February 24, 2026, has been moved to March 31, 2026, allowing eligible workers additional time to comply and remain in the legal employment system.

Data presented at the meeting showed that 375,038 workers out of a total of 890,786 have not yet completed the required procedures. Without the extension, many could lose their status, limiting employers’ ability to hire them legally and increasing the risk of workforce shortages in key industries.

Labour Minister Treenuch Thienthong has directed the Department of Employment to expedite drafting a ministerial notification granting special permission for affected workers in line with the earlier Cabinet resolution. The ministry will forward the committee’s decision to the Cabinet to ensure continuity in the labor market and reduce potential economic impact.

Source: NBT WORLD