Effective October 13, 2025, Thailand has officially launched its new e-Work Permit system, moving the entire foreign worker registration and work permit process online.
This digital platform is now mandatory for both foreign employees and their employers, marking a major shift in how Thailand manages foreign labour applications.
Thailand’s Move Toward Digital Work Permits
The e-Work Permit initiative is part of the government’s larger plan to modernise immigration and labour management through digital transformation.
Key goals include:
- Reducing paperwork
- Speeding up approval times
- Improving transparency
Employers can now submit applications, track progress in real time, and receive approvals online—a clear upgrade from the previous in-person, paper-based process.
Initial Transition and Challenges
While the new system is now in force, authorities have not confirmed whether manual filings will still be accepted temporarily during the transition.
Applicants should expect some initial delays or technical issues as government offices adjust to the online platform.
Officials recommend that employers register early on the e-Work Permit portal and complete identity verification using the ThaiID mobile app before submitting applications.
Outstanding Questions
Some operational details remain unclear. For instance:
- Will work permit approvals be issued digitally or in printed form?
- How will the processing time compare to the old system?
The Ministry of Labour plans to release more guidance after real-world testing of the new platform in the coming weeks.
Impact on Employers and Foreign Workers
Once fully operational, the e-Work Permit platform could bring major benefits:
- For employers: Faster processing, less paperwork, and real-time tracking to plan start dates more accurately.
- For foreign workers: A smoother, more transparent process with fewer document errors and quicker turnaround times.
However, during the rollout phase, technical hiccups and slow responses are possible. Employers and employees are encouraged to stay patient and ensure all digital submissions meet the new requirements.
Important Update for BOI-Promoted Companies
Starting August 1, 2025, all BOI-promoted companies must re-register their accounts on the Single Window system used for work permit and visa applications.
- Thai representatives must verify their identity via the ThaiID mobile app.
- Foreign representatives will verify their identity through email.
Re-registration is essential to maintain access and comply with Thailand’s move toward a fully digital work permit process.
Final Thoughts
Thailand’s e-Work Permit launch marks a significant leap toward digitalisation in its immigration and labour systems.
While the transition may bring short-term confusion, the long-term benefits are clear: faster approvals, reduced paperwork, and improved transparency.
Once fully implemented, the new system is expected to transform how foreign professionals live and work in Thailand, making the process more efficient and user-friendly than ever before.
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