In 2025, Thailand continues implementing its long-term migration policy aimed at legalizing migrant workers from Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Instead of temporary amnesties (as in 2018–2019), a digital, sustainable, and humane registration system is now in place to protect workers' rights and ensure economic stability.
According to the Ministry of Labour (MoL), 2.4 million migrant workers live legally in the country:
- 1.8M from Myanmar;
- 310K from Laos;
- 260K from Cambodia;
- 30K from Vietnam and other countries.
How Legalization Works in 2025?
The process, called e-Stamping, has three steps:
- Employer registration: via mol.go.th or DOE centers;
- Online document submission: passport, photo, contract, insurance;
- Biometric verification: fingerprint and photo at one of 300 nationwide centers.
After approval, migrants receive:
- Two-year work visa (renewable);
- Work Permit;
- e-Stamp card — digital ID with QR code;
- Access to health insurance and pension fund (SML).
Cost & Support
Total legalization cost:
- 3,500 THB — registration, visa, medical check;
- State support: free legal advice, document translation;
- Subsidies for SMEs: discounts for employers with 1–5 migrants.
Where to Register?
300 centers across Thailand, including:
- Bangkok: Chaeng Watthana Government Complex;
- Samut Sakhon: for fishing industry;
- Chiang Mai: agriculture & tourism;
- Rayong: EEC workers;
- Surat Thani: plantations & construction.
Migrant Rights & Protection
Legal migrants gain:
- Minimum wage (330–370 THB/day);
- Protection from exploitation under Labour Code;
- Children’s access to public schools;
- Right to legal aid and union support.
Challenges
Barriers remain:
- ~400,000 migrants still undocumented (ILO data);
- Language & digital literacy gaps;
- Distrust in authorities in border areas;
- Processing delays due to system overload.
To address this, MoL launched mobile registration teams and a hotline 1507 in 5 languages.
Outlook 2025–2030
Expected:
- Full digitalization of migration processes by 2026;
- Introduction of 5-year Migrant Worker Card (MWC);
- Expansion of family & housing rights;
- International recognition of Thailand’s migration model.
"Migrants are not a problem — they are part of our economy," said Labour Minister Suwith Kemitthi. "We must give them dignity, safety, and a future."
Are you a migrant or employer? My Thai Home helps you complete e-Stamping, understand rights, and avoid fines. The law is your ally — if you know where to find it.
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