Summary
Effective August 28, 2026, Thailand introduced its first formal deportation procedure under a new Office of the Prime Minister Regulation on Deportation.
The regulation establishes a structured process for the deportation of foreign nationals following certain immigration and work permit violations and introduces the possibility of re-entry bans. It also provides for deportation in certain circumstances involving conduct contrary to public order, even without a criminal conviction.
The changes reinforce the importance of immigration and work permit compliance for foreign nationals working in Thailand and their employers.
Key Changes
Under the new regulation:
- Immigration and work permit violations may lead to deportation and re-entry restrictions. Foreign nationals convicted of immigration or work permit offenses, including working outside the authorized scope of a work permit, may be subject to a formal deportation process after serving their sentence. A re-entry ban may also be imposed.
- Deportation may be possible without a criminal conviction. The regulation establishes a separate ground for deportation based on conduct considered contrary to public order, good morals or the wellbeing of the public.
- Those who support or instigate covered offenses may also be subject to the regulation. This provision raises the potential consequences of noncompliance for employers as well as employees.
Employer Considerations
Employers with foreign nationals working in Thailand should ensure that employees’ actual job duties and activities remain consistent with the scope authorized under their work permits.
Particular attention should be given to changes in an employee’s role, responsibilities, work activities, or assignment that could result in the individual performing work outside the authorized scope of their permit.
Newland Chase Insights
The introduction of a formal deportation procedure increases the potential consequences associated with immigration and work permit violations in Thailand. Employers should pay particular attention to ensuring that foreign employees’ actual work activities remain consistent with the scope of their work permits.
For further information regarding the new regulation or assistance reviewing the immigration and work permit compliance of employees in Thailand, please contact your Newland Chase Advisor.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please contact Newland Chase directly for case-specific guidance.