No re-entry fee for migrant workers from April 1 to May 15
Waiving of requirement intended as a Songkran gift to workers from Thailand’s three neighbours, Labour Ministry says
Migrant workers from Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar who plan to return home during Songkran holidays or at any time between April 1 and May 15 will not need a re-entry permit, the Labour Ministry announced on Tuesday.
Songkran or Thailand’s traditional New Year is celebrated from April 13 to 15 every year. The festivities are also celebrated in several neighbouring countries but in a slightly different format.
The waiving of the re-entry permit aims to make travel easier for workers from neighbouring countries and to reduce their expenses during the festive season, said Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn.
"Migrant workers are important to the Thai economy. This waiver is considered an appropriate gift, allowing them to return to work in Thailand with better morale,” he said.
This waiver only applies to Cambodia, Laos or Myanmar passport holders with a non-L-A (legalised labour) visa, which is valid beyond May 15. The waiver also applies to eligible migrant workers’ children below the age of 18.
Those who wish to return to Thailand after May 15 will be required to get a re-entry stamp as usual, said Phiphat.
Somchai Morakotsriwan, director-general of the Employment Department, reiterated that migrant workers should not stay home beyond the specified period to be eligible for the waiver.
He added that his department will publicise this policy and related guidelines to all migrant workers, as well as request their cooperation in following the deadline to avoid affecting their work status in Thailand.
