Thailand Clarifies Legal Status of Cambodian Workers

On September 5, security authorities released a statement addressing questions about Cambodian nationals in Thailand following the closure of land border crossings. Thai officials confirmed that both documented and undocumented Cambodian workers remain in the country, with enforcement actions varying by legal status. Those with valid work permits from the Department of Employment can renew visas on schedule and cannot be punished or deported without a government directive. Illegal entrants face prosecution and deportation procedures. Most Cambodians in Thailand arrived before recent conflict and chose to stay rather than return. The land border closure targets goods and military equipment to reduce an adversary's combat capability but does not restrict air travel or commercial flights, allowing legal workers to continue entering through licensed companies. Legal migrant workers are monitored to ensure compliance with their employment permits and designated work areas; those needing to travel beyond their work zone must seek permission from immigration, police, local administration, or municipal authorities. Undocumented workers—whether arriving before the conflict, holding expired permits, or aided by corrupt officials—can be reported for investigation, arrest, and prosecution. Management of internal areas and communities against "compound threats" remains the responsibility of law enforcement agencies including police, immigration, the Department of Interior, and local government bodies, while the military focuses on border defense and national security.