Thai Fisheries Sector Urged to Renew Migrant Worker Permits

The Thai Department of Fisheries has issued an urgent advisory to fishery operators regarding the renewal of work permits for migrant workers from Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. According to a report by Prachachat Business, operators must ensure that work permits are renewed before they expire on December 11, 2026. Furthermore, the department has mandated that the Seaman Book (Seabook) must also be updated to extend employment eligibility until December 11, 2027. Officials have emphasized that if a work permit expires, the associated Seaman Book will immediately become invalid, potentially leading to significant labor shortages within the fishing industry. This administrative requirement is critical for maintaining the legal status of the workforce and ensuring the continuity of operations. For residents and those involved in the maritime sector, this development highlights the government's ongoing efforts to regulate migrant labor and prevent illegal employment practices. While this directive focuses on the commercial fishing industry, it underscores the importance of monitoring immigration compliance for businesses relying on foreign labor. It remains to be confirmed how many operators have already initiated the renewal process and whether the government will provide additional support to facilitate these administrative updates before the year-end deadline.