Thailand deploys nationwide inspection teams to check foreign work permits

What the inspections target

Thailand’s Labour Ministry ordered nationwide inspections of foreign workers’ permits in early May after a May 1 raid on an illegal childcare facility in Koh Phangan led to nine arrests. The checks cover foreign nationals working without permits or outside the job scope on their permits, with teams deployed in all provinces, including Bangkok.

The Department of Employment is directing the crackdown with police and immigration. Officials say the checks will stay in place until compliance improves and public tips can be reported through hotline 1506.

Who is most exposed

Foreign workers in education, childcare and service jobs face the sharpest scrutiny, along with expats and digital nomads doing paid work without authorization. Tourists who aren't working aren't the target.

Employers are in the frame too. Officials have said repeat violations can bring heavier penalties, including fines, jail terms and bans on hiring foreign workers.

What workers should check now

The e-Work Permit system became mandatory on April 28, ending paper submissions. Anyone relying on an old filing path should log in and confirm their permit details match their actual job duties.

Workers and employers should keep permit records ready for inspection and fix any mismatch before a visit from officials. Read our full Thailand guide for the complete picture and see more visa updates.