Phuket Moves to Untangle Work Permit Backlog

Phuket Moves to Untangle Work Permit Backlog

Phuket officials are trying to fix delays affecting the renewal and issuance of work permits for more than 130,000 foreign workers. The problem has drawn complaints from employers who say the slowdown is hurting businesses across the island, especially in tourism. Officials linked the backlog to a nationwide outsourced processing system introduced in October 2025 through the digital e-WorkPermit platform. While the new system was meant to streamline applications, Phuket’s large foreign workforce has outstripped the service provider’s capacity. Provincial leaders have now ordered urgent action and plan to meet with employers and relevant agencies to work out faster solutions.