Thailand steps up border inspections to curb illegal employment of migrant workers

In response to a surge in illegal migrant worker entry, the Thai government has intensified surveillance and enforcement operations in border provinces.

According to Aiyarin Phanrit, Deputy Government Spokesperson, security agencies have been instructed to coordinate closely with provincial employment offices to monitor, inspect, prevent, and intercept the unlawful entry and employment of foreign nationals.

This directive follows reports indicating large numbers of migrant workers from neighbouring countries crossing into Thailand without proper documentation to seek employment.

Officials are also conducting on-site inspections of workplaces and migrant workers in targeted areas.

These measures are part of broader efforts to strengthen legal compliance and maintain a fair employment system for Thai nationals.

Aiyarin clarified that individuals working without valid permits, or engaging in jobs beyond their approved scope, will face serious consequences.

Penalties include a fine ranging from THB5,000 to THB50,000, deportation to their home country, and a prohibition from applying for a new work permit for two years from the date the penalty is imposed.

Employers and businesses found hiring such workers are also subject to enforcement action.

Those employing foreign nationals without valid permits, or allowing them to work in violation of permit conditions, will be fined between THB10,000 and THB100,000 per offending worker.

Repeat offences attract harsher penalties—up to one year of imprisonment, or fines between THB50,000 and THB200,000 per worker.

Additionally, repeat violators will be banned from employing foreign workers for three years.

The government has called on all employers to fully comply with the relevant laws.

The goal, officials said, is to protect Thai workers’ rights and establish a standardised and transparent employment system.

To support enforcement, the government has urged the public to report any suspected cases of illegal employment of migrant workers.

Reports can be made to the Central Employment Registration and Jobseeker Protection Division at 02 354 1729.

The public can also contact Bangkok Employment Offices in Areas 1 to 10, provincial employment offices across the country, or the Ministry of Labour’s hotline at 1506 (press 2 for the Department of Employment).