Mr. Karun, the Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office of Thailand, revealed that the Cabinet has reviewed and approved the draft departmental regulations on the application, issuance, and reporting of work permits for foreign workers. This is a modification of the 2020 version of the departmental regulations concerning the same, aimed at adjusting the standards for foreigners to obtain work permits, facilitating the process, and reducing unnecessary expenses.
He stated that foreigners working in Thailand must first obtain a work permit. The 2020 departmental regulations provided various channels for applying for a work permit, such as foreigners submitting applications in person or through employer representatives.
However, when issuing permits, foreigners are required to personally visit the employment office to collect them. This requirement is inconvenient for foreigners, increases the workload of staff, and employers face the issue of paying travel expenses for foreigners. Additionally, foreigners going out to collect work permits can also lead to work stoppages.
In response to these issues, the Ministry of Labor submitted the aforementioned draft departmental regulations, aimed at adjusting the methods for obtaining work permits for foreigners working in Thailand (including all types), foreigners involved in foreign film production, and foreigners engaged in organizing music festivals. Most importantly, the requirement for foreigners to personally collect work permits has been abolished, and provisions for alternative collection methods have been made, including allowing others to collect on their behalf, or through mail or online channels, all aimed at providing convenience for foreigners and employers.
