Thailand Labor Minister Addresses Migrant Worker Policies and Myanmar Remittance Dispute

On November 6, 2026, Thailand's Minister of Labor, Julapun Amornvivat, announced key updates regarding the management of migrant workers following a meeting of the Alien Worker Management Policy Committee. The Minister confirmed that the country will maintain its nationality verification centers to ensure national security and prevent identity fraud. A significant point of contention raised by the Minister is the recent mandate from Myanmar requiring its citizens working abroad to remit 25% of their earnings back home. The Thai government intends to formally oppose this policy, citing concerns that it contradicts international standards. For residents and business owners, the government has approved the extension of work permits expiring between February and March 2027, allowing continued employment until February 13, 2029. Additionally, a one-year temporary stay and work permit extension has been granted to over 800,000 undocumented workers from three neighboring countries to support economic continuity. The Ministry is also streamlining the process for workers from Myanmar and Laos to return home briefly to satisfy legal requirements without disrupting their employment in Thailand. Furthermore, the government is exploring the importation of labor from Sri Lanka under existing agreements. While these measures aim to stabilize the labor market, the outcome of the diplomatic discussions regarding the remittance dispute remains to be confirmed.