Thailand mandating digital cards for LTR and Smart Visa e-Work Permits

Thailand’s e-Work Permit system has been mandatory for new work permit applications since Oct. 13, 2025. The digital platform, run by the Department of Employment under the Ministry of Labour, replaces paper-based filings for foreign worker registrations and permits.

Employers can submit applications, renewals, cancellations and amendments online, then track status in real time. Approved applicants receive a credit-card-sized ID card with a QR code and biometric checks at more than 40 service centers take about 12 minutes for card issuance.

Who it affects

The system mainly covers expats and skilled foreign workers on Non-Immigrant B, LTR and Smart Visas who need Thai work authorization and employer sponsorship. That includes workers at BOI-promoted firms.

Digital nomads and remote workers for foreign employers usually don’t need a Thai work permit if they stay on tourist, DTV or other non-work visas. They do need one if they take work for Thai entities. Existing paper permits stay valid until they expire.

What applicants need to do now

Thailand has extended the deadline for manual submissions tied to technical problems, most recently to July 28, 2026 for cases with proof of glitches such as screenshots. The government first set earlier cutoffs, then pushed them back several times as users adapted to the system.

Employers and workers must register online, pay fees digitally and book appointments through the platform. Company directors verify identity through the ThaiID mobile app, then applicants complete biometrics at a service center. Processing typically takes 3 to 12 days.

Read our full Thailand guide for the complete picture and check visa updates for more nomad news.