Thailand Escalates Crackdown on Fake Work Permits
Thailand has launched a nationwide crackdown on fake work permits after discovering counterfeit employment cards issued to foreign workers in Dinso district, with authorities warning the problem is far more widespread than initial investiga
On August 20, 2025, at Parliament, Deputy Interior Minister Vorasit Liaengprasert discussed the Dinso district case in which foreign workers were issued counterfeit pink employment cards in exchange for payments to officials. He stated that the actual figures far exceed the roughly 100 cases found in Dinso, which marks only the beginning of the investigation. The crackdown will expand to other areas nationwide.
When asked how many similar cases exist across Thailand, Vorasit said he did not dare estimate because the numbers are too high and tallying remains incomplete. However, authorities have set clear targets and will prosecute all identified cases. Seven arrest warrants have been issued targeting three groups: corrupt officials, brokers (who are the main architects), and landlords providing housing for workers.
"Sometimes foreign workers coming in don't know anything about it. The brokers tell them to come, to pay this amount of money, and they will handle it. The process is complex and requires detailed investigation," Vorasit said.
When asked about typical broker fees, Vorasit said they range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of baht depending on the circumstances. He noted that the case likely involves the Labour Ministry as well, since that agency registers foreign workers. The investigation coordinates across multiple agencies to simplify verification and ensure comprehensive coverage.
