French teacher arrested over Rayong work permit

A French national teaching at a language school in a Rayong shopping centre has been arrested after allegedly working without a valid permit.

Officials from the Rayong Provincial Employment Office said the teacher could not produce a work permit when inspectors visited the school on 11 September. The employer was also charged with employing a foreigner without the required permission.

The inspection was part of a crackdown by the office division responsible for checking foreign workers and protecting job seekers. Officers visited two language schools located in major shopping centres in the province.

Checks at two Rayong language schools

At the first school, inspectors found seven staff members: four Thai employees and three South Africans. Officials said all employment documents and work permits were in order.

The second school had five employees - three Thais, one Bangladeshi national and the French teacher. According to officials, the French national was unable to show a valid work permit during the inspection.

The teacher was subsequently charged with working as a foreigner without a work permit under Thailand's foreign worker employment law.

He was taken to investigators at Muang Rayong Police Station for further legal proceedings. No further details about the teacher or school were released.

What foreign teachers should take from the case

For foreign residents and visitors considering paid work in Thailand, including language teaching, the case is a reminder that a visa alone does not normally authorise employment. Foreigners must have permission to work for the particular employer and role before starting work.

Employers also face legal exposure if they hire a foreign national who does not hold the required work authorisation. This can be relevant to schools, tutoring centres and businesses which use overseas staff, including those working in shopping-centre language schools.

Foreign teachers changing schools or taking on additional classes should ensure their work permission covers the new employment arrangement.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

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12 September 2026