Labour Minister: No Cambodian Workers Due to Leave in Feb 2026

Picture courtesy of Khaosod 

The Minister of Labour, Ms. Trinuch Thienthong, has clarified that Cambodian migrant workers in Thailand are not required to return to their home country on February 13, 2026. The statement follows widespread reports suggesting that work permits for Cambodian nationals would not be renewed, creating concern among workers and employers. The clarification confirms that no Cambodian workers face permit expiry on that date, easing immediate uncertainty across key labour sectors.

The misunderstanding arose from references to earlier Cabinet resolutions governing migrant labour from neighbouring countries. According to a Facebook post shared by the Department of Employment on December 23, 2025, the minister explained that only Lao and Vietnamese nationals were initially permitted to work in Thailand until February 13, 2026 under a Cabinet resolution dated February 4, 2025. These provisions did not apply to Cambodian workers in the same way.

Ms. Trinuch further explained that a subsequent Cabinet resolution on December 2, 2025 granted Lao and Vietnamese workers an additional one-year extension. This allows them to remain and work in Thailand until February 13, 2027. The update was intended to maintain labour continuity and address ongoing workforce needs.

For Cambodian nationals, the minister outlined separate legal frameworks. Those with irregular legal status under the Cabinet resolution of September 24, 2024 are permitted to work until March 31, 2026. Meanwhile, Cambodian workers who had already renewed their work permits, originally expiring on February 13, 2025, under Cabinet resolutions dated September 24, 2024 and February 4, 2025, are allowed to stay and work until February 13, 2027.

Ms. Trinuch added that these Cambodian workers may renew their permits once more for up to two additional years. This extension would allow them to remain in Thailand until February 13, 2029. She stressed that, based on these provisions, there are no Cambodian workers whose work permits expire on February 13, 2026.

Khoasod reported that Mr. Somchai Morakotsriwan, Director-General of the Department of Employment, said the department is coordinating with security agencies to develop well-considered measures for Cambodian workers. He noted that the approach aims to balance economic needs, social stability and national security. Employers and businesses were advised to follow official updates via the Department of Employment website at doe.go.th, local employment offices, or the Ministry of Labour hotline at 1506, press 2.

Key Takeaways

• Cambodian migrant workers are not required to leave Thailand on February 13, 2026, as no permits expire on that date.

• Cabinet resolutions allow eligible Cambodian workers to stay until February 13, 2027, with possible extension to February 13, 2029.

• Authorities are coordinating new measures while advising employers to rely on official government channels.

 Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-12-25