The Ministry of Labour has issued the Ministerial Regulation on Contributions to the Fund for Assisting Job Seekers Going to Work Abroad (the “Regulation”).
Under the Regulation, a uniform contribution rate of THB 1,000 per job seeker is prescribed. Where contributions are made in foreign currency, conversion into Thai Baht must be calculated based on the Bank of Thailand’s daily reference exchange rate on the payment date. The obligation to contribute applies to both licensed employment agencies and job seekers who arrange overseas employment independently, and such contributions must generally be made prior to the job seeker’s departure from Thailand.
The Regulation also establishes procedural requirements for submission, requiring applications and supporting documents to be filed with the Director-General of the Department of Employment or an authorized officer. While electronic submission is designated as the primary method, transitional arrangements permit in-person submissions at designated offices, including Department of Employment offices, Thai Labour Offices abroad, and Thai embassies or consulates where necessary. Upon receipt of payment, the authorities will issue a receipt and a fund membership card.
Importantly, the Regulation provides mechanisms for the continuation and extension of benefits. Job seekers may maintain or extend their eligibility, including the possibility of an additional five-year benefit period, subject to compliance with prescribed contribution requirements and timelines. Specific provisions also address cases where a job seeker enters into a new employment contract prior to the expiry of an existing contract, allowing continuity of fund benefits under defined conditions.
Finally, the Regulation includes comprehensive transitional provisions to ensure regulatory continuity. Existing membership cards remain valid until replaced, and pending applications submitted under the previous regime will be treated as applications under the new Regulation. Current beneficiaries may continue to receive benefits under existing Ministry of Labour regulations; however, those seeking extended or enhanced