The Department of Employment (DOE) has introduced an electronic submission process for urgent work permit applications through Thailand’s e-Work Permit system (eworkpermit.doe.go.th). This update allows foreign nationals and employers to apply online for work that must be completed within 15 days, significantly reducing administrative time and paperwork for short-term assignments.
The new process applies to urgent or special work under Section 61 of the Foreigners’ Working Management Emergency Decree B.E. 2560 (2017), as amended.
Section 61 permits foreign nationals to perform work that is necessary, urgent, or of a special nature for a period not exceeding 15 days, subject to notification and approval by the DOE. While this provision offers flexibility for short-term engagements, approval must be obtained prior to commencement of work. Non-compliance may result in administrative penalties for both employers and foreign workers.
Urgent work permit applications (Form BT.34) may be submitted electronically via the e-Work Permit platform. Applications can be filed by foreign workers, employers, or authorized representatives.
Applicants must select the menu option for “Notification of work that is necessary, urgent, or a special task with a work duration to be completed within 15 days,” identify an existing registered foreign worker or register a new one, and upload all required supporting documents. Once submitted, applications are reviewed sequentially by the responsible officer, assistant registrar, and registrar.
Upon approval, the work permit is issued electronically and can be accessed through the system’s e-Tracking function, eliminating the need for in-person collection.
The DOE has clarified that employers acting as coordinators for foreign film productions, mega events, or concerts may submit applications on behalf of foreign workers. In such cases, the foreign workers are not required to register or log into the e-Work Permit system themselves. This exception is intended to accommodate large-scale, short-term projects involving multiple foreign personnel.
The electronic submission of urgent work permit applications offers greater efficiency, improves tracking, and reduces paperwork for time-sensitive assignments. However, employers should note that the substantive requirements of Section 61 remain unchanged. The 15-day work period is strictly enforced, and work exceeding this duration requires a standard work permit.
Employers should also ensure that the nature of the work genuinely qualifies as urgent or special, as misuse of Section 61 may attract regulatory scrutiny.
The DOE’s update enhances flexibility and compliance for short-term foreign work in Thailand. Employers engaging foreign nationals for urgent assignments should take advantage of the new e-Work Permit process while ensuring strict adherence to eligibility criteria and duration limits.
Urgent Work Permit Applications Available via Thailand’s e-Work Permit System_Bangkok Global Law