Thailand will recruit 10,000 Sri Lankan workers through legal channels to ease shortages of workers and meet the growing demand from industries and employers.

The Cabinet on 8 September 2026 approved the Memorandum of Understanding on Labor Cooperation between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and a Memorandum of Agreement on Employment of Sri Lankan Workers in Thailand. The MOUs aim to establish a cooperation framework and systematize the sending and receiving of workers between the two countries in a clear, transparent, and efficient manner.

Deputy Government Spokesperson Captain Patdarasm Thongsaluaykorn explained that the recruitment of workers from Sri Lanka is not a short-term arrangement, but rather the result of years of continuous dialogue and cooperation. This will ensure that labor recruitment follows the same rules and is traceable from end to end.

The MOU on Labor Cooperation covers cooperation in labor market information, labor laws, policies, knowledge, experts, and best practices, along with skills development and productivity enhancement. Furthermore, it provides for information sharing to prevent illegal recruitment and human trafficking.

Regarding the MOU on the Employment of Sri Lankan Workers in Thailand, it establishes a systematic recruitment process, covering employer information, number and qualifications of workers, and employment terms and remuneration. Selected workers will receive an employment contract directly signed between the worker and the employer prior to entering Thailand. Additionally, they are required to secure work permits, undergo medical examinations, and present proof of health insurance before starting work, while being restricted to working solely with authorized employers in approved occupations.

Concerning the protection of rights, Sri Lankan workers shall be treated fairly and equally with local workers under the principle of non-discrimination. They shall enjoy the rights and benefits provided by their employment contracts and Thai labor law, and shall have access to legal proceedings in case of any employment disputes.

The agreement provides for a two-year employment contract, which is extendable for an additional two years. Upon contract completion, workers must return to their home country, and the employer shall bear all repatriation expenses

The goal of this cooperation is not just to increase the number of workers, but to systematically bring workers into sectors facing labor shortages in Thailand through a legal, transparent, and verifiable process. At the same time, workers will receive legal protection, clear employment contracts, and access to dispute resolution channels, while reducing the risks of illegal recruitment and human trafficking.