Chiang Mai Immigration Authorities Arrest Lao National for Unauthorized Street Vending

On August 3, 2026, immigration investigators in Chiang Mai, in coordination with the Immigration Division 5, conducted an inspection at a market in the Mae Hia sub-district. According to a report by Khaosod Online, the operation was initiated following tips from local residents regarding the employment of illegal foreign labor.

Authorities arrested a Lao national who was operating a braised duck stall. The individual was charged with working without a valid work permit and failing to notify the registrar of her employer and workplace details within the mandatory 15-day period. While the suspect had previously held a work permit under a Thai employer, she had been operating the stall independently for approximately three years without proper authorization. The suspect has been transferred to the Mueang Chiang Mai Police Station for further legal proceedings.

For residents and travelers, this incident highlights the strict enforcement of Thailand’s Foreign Employment Act, which restricts certain occupations to Thai nationals. While this case focuses on unauthorized self-employment, it serves as a reminder that foreign nationals must ensure their work permits strictly align with their current employer and job description. It remains to be confirmed whether the property owner or the individual who facilitated the stall space will face additional charges for hiring or hosting an undocumented worker.