Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, has decided to postpone the relaxation of work permits for Cambodian workers with expired permits. This decision comes after the previous government’s proposal during a Cabinet meeting on August 19. Anutin emphasized the need for strict scrutiny and a thorough review of the resolution.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Traisulee Traisaranakul, Secretary-General to the Prime Minister, disclosed that Anutin has delayed signing a draft Ministry of Interior announcement. This announcement would have granted special permission for Cambodian nationals to reside in Thailand, following the Cabinet resolution proposed by the former Acting Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai. The postponement aims to ensure a thorough review of information and to enforce strict legal action.

Investigations by relevant agencies have revealed that nearly 100,000 Cambodian workers, whose work permits expired since February 2015, are unable to clearly verify their identity or address. Allowing them to remain without verification might impact security and lead to issues such as illegal immigration or transnational crime.

Ms. Traisulee further stated that the Prime Minister is prioritizing the management of foreign workers to ensure legal compliance, transparency, and accountability. This approach aims to prevent any loopholes that could affect national security and the economy. She urged the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Labor to collaboratively review the details to ensure all procedures are correctly executed. A new Cabinet resolution will be reviewed to ensure thorough inspections.

The Cabinet resolution from August 19, 2025, proposed granting temporary stay and work permits to migrant workers from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam whose work permits have expired for one year. This measure seeks to address labor shortages. However, the resolution still requires the signature of the Minister of the Interior to take effect.