New Thai Labour Law Expands Parental Leave Benefits

File photo for reference only

Thailand has enacted the updated Labour Protection Act, effective December 7, focusing on boosting support for working parents. Caretaker Labour Minister Trinuch Thienthong has instructed the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare to launch outreach efforts to inform employers about the changes. The law aims to address the country's declining birth rate by enhancing maternity and paternity leave provisions.

The Labour Protection Act (No. 9) B.E. 2568 (2025) increases maternity leave from 98 to 120 days and requires employers to maintain normal wages for 60 days during this period. Employers must now also allow an additional 15 days of leave for parents to care for a sick or disabled child, with 50% of daily wages. Notably, paternity leave has been introduced, granting spouses 15 days of fully paid leave for the first time in Thai law.

The legislation extends protections to outsourced contract workers in government agencies, ensuring parity with regular employees in terms of wages and benefits. This marks a significant change in Thailand's labour laws, aimed at creating a more family-friendly work environment. It reflects a growing recognition of the need to balance professional responsibilities with family care commitments.

Experts believe these changes could help improve work-life balance and reduce economic pressures on families, potentially encouraging higher birth rates. Employers, however, may face increased operational costs and are urged to prepare for implementation. With the law already in effect, businesses must quickly adapt to ensure compliance and tap into any potential benefits of a more committed workforce.

Moving forward, the focus will be on monitoring the impact of these new provisions and their effectiveness in addressing low birth rates. The government and labour bodies will likely continue assessing these measures to ensure they meet national demographic and economic goals, reported The Nation.

Key Takeaways

• Thai labour law now grants extended parental leave to support families.

• New provisions cover maternity, paternity, and care leave with pay.

• Outsourced workers in government receive benefits like regular employees.

Related Stories

Thailand fast-tracks labour law reforms to meet ILO standards

DSI to probe Phuket businesses over potential labour law evasion

Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2026-01-12