Educational Information Only
The content on this page is for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is unique. For matters involving investigation, arrest, litigation, or formal proceedings, consult a qualified legal professional.
Hiring a Domestic Helper in Thailand Checklist
Complete checklist for legally hiring a domestic helper (maid, nanny, or housekeeper) in Thailand — contracts, wages, social security, and insurance requirements.
Document Checklist
Decide between live-in or daily arrangement
Live-in helpers typically receive lower monthly wages plus room and board, while daily helpers are paid per day at a higher rate.
Verify the helper's Thai national ID card
Ensure the helper is a Thai national with a valid ID card, or a registered migrant worker with a valid work permit.
Draft a written employment contract
Include job description, working hours, salary, leave entitlements, termination terms, and house rules. Both parties should sign.
Register the helper with the Social Security Office
Employers of domestic workers must register with the Social Security Office and make monthly contributions.
Set salary at or above minimum wage (THB 370/day in Bangkok)
Minimum daily wage varies by province: THB 370 in Bangkok, lower in some provinces. Monthly live-in workers must still meet minimum wage standards.
Agree on working hours (maximum 8 hours per day)
Standard working hours are 8 hours/day, 6 days/week under Thai labor law. Overtime must be compensated.
Establish leave entitlements
Minimum 6 days annual leave after 1 year of service, plus 13 public holidays and 30 days sick leave per year.
Arrange accident insurance for the helper
Employers should arrange personal accident insurance (THB 1,000-3,000/year) to cover workplace injuries.
Set a termination notice period
Standard notice period is one pay period (typically 1 month). Termination without notice requires payment in lieu of notice.
Keep payroll records and pay slips
Maintain records of all payments, deductions, and leave taken. Pay slips protect both employer and employee in disputes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not having a written contract — verbal agreements are difficult to enforce and lead to disputes.
Paying below minimum wage — domestic helpers are covered by minimum wage laws in Thailand.
Not registering for social security — employers face penalties for non-registration.
Confusing live-in arrangement with 24-hour availability — helpers are entitled to rest periods and days off.
Hiring undocumented migrant workers — employers face fines of THB 10,000-100,000 per worker.
Helpful Tips
Use the Labour Protection Act B.E. 2541 (1998) as the baseline for employment terms — domestic workers are covered.
A probation period of 119 days is common before confirming permanent employment.
Consider using a reputable agency for the initial search — they handle background checks.
Pay into the Social Security Fund: employer 5% + employee 5% of salary.
Severance pay is required if terminating without cause: 1-10 months based on length of service.
Need professional legal assistance?
When a matter involves investigation, arrest, detention, litigation, or regulatory action, professional legal representation becomes essential.
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