Thailand Introduces New Digital ‘e-Work Permit’ System for Foreign Employees

On October 13, 2025, Thailand will implement its new e-Work Permit system, requiring foreign workers and employers to apply for work permits online. This innovative platform aims to streamline the process, offering quicker approvals and real-time tracking, although some delays may occur during the initial transition.

A Digital Shift in Work Visa Processes

The e-Work Permit system represents Thailand’s commitment to modernizing its immigration and labor management. The objectives are clear:

• Reduce paperwork
• Accelerate approval times
• Enhance transparency

Employers can now submit applications digitally, track their status in real-time, and access approvals efficiently.

Previously, foreign workers had to visit the Department of Employment in person and submit documents manually. The new system replaces these outdated methods with a more efficient online process, easing the administrative burden on both employers and employees.

Anticipating Transition Challenges

While the platform is mandatory, authorities may still accept some manual applications during the initial phase, although this has not yet been officially confirmed. Applicants should brace for potential delays as government offices adapt to the new system.

To facilitate smooth registration, employers and their representatives are urged to sign up on the e-Work Permit portal and verify their identities using the ThaiID mobile app before submitting applications.

Navigating Unanswered Questions

Several operational aspects remain unclear. The government has not yet outlined how the e-Work Permit system will modify the step-by-step registration process or how processing times will compare to those of the previous system.

It’s also uncertain if approvals will be issued digitally or in printed form. Detailed guidance is expected to be released soon after the system undergoes real-world testing.

Benefits for Employers and Foreign Workers

The transition to a digital platform could significantly minimize administrative delays for companies employing foreign nationals. Once stabilized, the real-time tracking feature will enable HR departments to plan start dates more accurately, reducing unnecessary trips to labor offices.

For foreign employees, this new system could simplify the often cumbersome process of relocating to Thailand. If successful, applicants may experience faster processing times, fewer document errors, and enhanced transparency regarding their application statuses.

However, as with any new system, initial technical issues and slow processing times may arise in the early months. Employers and workers are encouraged to remain patient and ensure that their online submissions comply with the new requirements.

BOI Companies: A Call to Re-Register

Starting August 1, 2025, all BOI-promoted companies in Thailand must create a new user account to continue using the Single Window system for work permit and visa applications. Thai representatives will need to verify their identities through the ThaiID mobile app, while foreign representatives will do so via email.

Completing this re-registration is essential for maintaining uninterrupted access to the system, aligning with Thailand’s broader digital transformation efforts.

Conclusion

The launch of Thailand’s e-Work Permit marks a significant advancement in the digitization of immigration and labor systems. However, the transition will not happen overnight. Early users should expect a learning curve as authorities refine the process.

Once fully operational, this platform has the potential to revolutionize how foreign professionals navigate living and working in Thailand, making the entire process quicker, clearer, and less reliant on paper than ever before.