Thailand extends grace period for migrant workers until May

In a measure aimed at preventing migrant workers from rushing to get their work permits renewed, Thailand has extended the grace period to enable them to continue working in the country until May.

The measure is expected to offer workers the duration they need to collect necessary documents and apply for a new permit, Deputy Government Spokesperson Traisuree Traisaranakul mentioned.

The renewal would allow workers to continue working in Thailand till February 13, 2024, or February 13, 2025, depending on the specific case.

This arrangement will help Thai businesses retain their workforce during the economic recovery period, in addition to giving some respite to a number of migrant workers by offering them protection and benefits according to the law.

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During the grace period, workers from neighbouring countries will not be subjected to overstaying fines.

Workers waiting for their new work permit will receive a document from the Department of Employment. In place of the permit, the workers – in order to prove their legal work status in Thailand – can temporarily present the document, along with a payment receipt, to Thai officials.

In recent news, several Myanmar migrant workers who came to Thailand to work illegally have been arrested.

Thailand restricts Myanmar migrant workers from engaging in dozens of job varieties. In addition, if they are caught doing the type of work restricted by Thai officials, they will be penalised and sent back to Myanmar.

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Since the military coup in 2021, Myanmar’s economy has been declining exponentially, making it much more challenging for people to make a living and eventually, compelling them to flee to the neighbouring nation.