Thailand has introduced a new mandatory online platform, e-Work Permit, to process work permit–related applications. All companies and foreign workers are required to use this system. However, due to ongoing technical issues during the rollout, Thai authorities are temporarily accepting manual submissions in certain cases.
For global employers hiring or managing talent in Thailand, understanding which submission route applies is essential to avoid delays and remain compliant.
Key Timeline of Updates
October 9, 2025
Authorities announced that, effective October 13, 2025, foreign workers and employers must use the e-Work Permit platform to:
Complete foreign worker registrations (a required step in the work permit process)
Submit work permit applications
October 17, 2025
Authorities acknowledged ongoing delays with the e-Work Permit platform and, as an interim measure, permitted:
Manual submission of work permit renewals for skilled foreign workers
Manual submission of work permit cancellations for all foreign workers
This arrangement remains in place until further notice.
October 31, 2025
The Department of Employment introduced temporary measures allowing manual submission of work permit applications in response to technical issues with the e-Work Permit system.
This exception applies until January 28, 2026.
Employers and foreign employees encountering system errors may submit paper applications to the relevant Provincial or Area Employment Office.
Applications must include a screenshot of the system error.
The system aims to reduce paperwork, enable real-time tracking, and speed up approvals. During the initial rollout, authorities indicated that manual filings may still be accepted in limited cases, though this has not been formally confirmed.
To use the system, employers must register on October 13, and company directors or authorized representatives must verify their identity via the ThaiID mobile application, which is a prerequisite for access.
Once fully implemented, all companies, including those under Board of Investment (BOI) promotion, will be required to submit new applications, renewals, and cancellations exclusively through the e-Work Permit system. Approved applicants will receive an e-Work Permit ID card (Work Permit ID).
Several aspects of the new system remain unclear, including processing timelines and approval mechanisms. Further updates will be shared as additional guidance becomes available.
Thailand’s Work Permit Submission: What Has Changed?
TIESC has revised its submission procedures to allow greater flexibility for companies that qualify for its rapid process, an expedited application pathway.
Companies eligible for the rapid process may now choose between two submission methods:
Manual submission, which no longer requires a screenshot from the e-work permit system
Online submission via Thailand’s official e-work permit system
This update simplifies documentation requirements and provides employers with more control over how they manage work permit filings.
For companies not eligible for the rapid process, they must continue to:
Submit work permit applications manually
Follow existing standard submission rules set by Thai authorities
No procedural changes apply to this group at this time.
What This Means for Employers
These updates reflect Thailand's ongoing efforts to streamline administrative processes while maintaining strict oversight of work authorization.
For employers, the key considerations include:
Eligibility assessment: Determining whether your company qualifies for the rapid process is critical
Process planning: Choosing the most efficient submission route based on company status
Compliance assurance: Ensuring applications follow the correct pathway to prevent rejections or delays
While the removal of the e-work permit screenshot requirement reduces friction for rapid process applicants, employers must still ensure all documentation and filings meet local regulatory standards.
Key Takeaway
Thailand's updated work permit submission procedures offer greater flexibility for companies eligible for the rapid process, while maintaining existing requirements for others. Employers should review their eligibility status and submission workflows to ensure continued compliance.
With the right global employment partner, businesses can adapt quickly to regulatory changes and continue hiring in Thailand with confidence.