Bangkok: Cambodian workers are flooding back to Thailand through natural channels after being tricked into returning. Recently, the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Industry have granted a six-month extension to Cambodian workers, eliminating the need to cross the border to extend their stay, for humanitarian reasons.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office, stated that security officials have received reports that a large number of Cambodian workers have illegally entered Thailand through natural channels in various areas. The Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Command (CBTDC) recently reported that, in collaboration with immigration police, they have detected a large number of Cambodian migrant workers illegally entering the country. Previously, the Cambodian government leader urged Cambodians working in Thailand to return home, promising them work and financial resources. This has led to a large number of workers returning home. However, their return has not been as promised. Therefore, they have been forced to illegally re-enter Thailand through various natural channels to return to work.
Security agencies have intensified their inspection measures. The Royal Gazette has published two announcements from the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Labor, granting Cambodian nationals whose employment terms or residence permits in border areas have expired but who are unable to return to their country of origin permission to work in Thailand for another six months, effective June 7, 2025. For humanitarian reasons, these foreigners who wish to work legally are granted special permission to work in Thailand, as announced.
“Despite the legal relaxation of immigration restrictions for foreign workers on humanitarian grounds, Thailand remains committed to protecting national security and enforcing the law. The government reaffirms its commitment to humanitarian principles and continues to provide assistance and facilitation to Cambodian workers in all respects, in accordance with Thai law, to ensure their safe stay, work, and residence in Thailand,” said Mr. Jirayu.