Thailand offers short-term work licenses to Cambodian citizens
In a move aimed at addressing the humanitarian impact on workers caught in the middle of ongoing border tensions, the Thai government has granted a six-month extension to Cambodian nationals whose work permits or residency in border areas expired since June 7, 2025.
Due to intensified border control measures between Thailand and Cambodia, many Cambodian workers have found it difficult to return to their home country. As a result, these workers are now allowed to continue their work in the country without fear of penalty or forced return.
The special work permit extension applies specifically to those previously holding work permits under Section 64 of the Alien Working Management Act 2017, including border passes and seasonal work permits. The deadline for these workers to report to immigration officials is within 15 days of the announcement, published on August 13, 2025, and every 30 days thereafter for the duration of the extension.
The exemption provided by the Thai government is effective until the border control measures return to normal or the expiration of the specified duration, whichever occurs first. It may be revoked earlier in cases of criminal convictions, non-compliance with regulations, or other violations specified by authorities.
The Royal Gazette published a Ministry of Interior announcement on August 13, 2025, granting the work permit extension. The extension is a response to the ongoing restrictions at the Thai-Cambodian border and arises from the humanitarian need to allow Cambodian workers stranded by the border restrictions to continue working legally.
Many of these Cambodian workers are employed across sectors such as fishing, farming, construction, and services. The measure helps maintain economic stability amidst the border disruptions and labor shortages.
The Thai and Cambodian governments have elevated border control measures at all border checkpoints, making it challenging for these workers to return home. The work permit extension comes in response to the special circumstances caused by these measures and aims to balance humanitarian concerns for migrant workers stranded by border tensions with Thailand's national security and legal enforcement priorities.
- The work permit extension for Cambodian workers, announced in the Royal Gazette on August 13, 2025, can be seen as a political move to address the general-news issue of border tensions impacting workers, while also balancing humanitarian concerns and maintaining economic stability in various sectors such as fishing, farming, construction, and services.
- Amidst the travel challenges due to intensified border control measures, the Thai government's decision to extend work permits for Cambodian nationals can be regarded as cultural acknowledgment of their significant contributions to the country, particularly in the areas of agriculture, industry, and services, while also reflecting a sensitivity towards the ongoing plight of these foreign workers stranded at the border.
