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.
Labor Law Violation Penalties for Employers in Thailand
Fines and prosecution for employers who violate Thai labor laws — minimum wage, severance, working hours, and employee rights.
Overview
Thai labor law heavily protects employees. Employers (including foreign-owned companies) face significant fines and imprisonment for violations of the Labour Protection Act.
Penalties Table
| Offence | Statute | Fine Range | Prison Range | Foreigner Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paying below minimum wage | Labour Protection Act, Section 144 | Up to THB 200,000 | Up to 1 year | Minimum wage varies by province (THB 328-370/day in 2026) |
| Not paying severance | Labour Protection Act, Sections 118-122 | Full severance amount + interest + penalty | Up to 6 months | Severance: 30-400 days pay depending on tenure |
| Exceeding maximum working hours | Labour Protection Act, Section 23 | Up to THB 200,000 | Up to 1 year | Max 8 hours/day, 48 hours/week |
| Not providing statutory leave | Labour Protection Act, Section 144 | Up to THB 200,000 | Up to 1 year | Minimum: 6 days annual leave, 30 days sick leave, 98 days maternity |
| Employing children under 15 | Labour Protection Act, Section 148 | THB 400,000-800,000 | 2-4 years | — |
| Not registering with Social Security Fund | Social Security Act B.E. 2533 (1990) | THB 20,000 + 2% surcharge/month on unpaid contributions | Up to 6 months | — |
Important Notes
The Labour Court handles all employment disputes — fast-track procedure (1-3 months typical)
Employees can file complaints at the Labour Inspector's office — free of charge
Foreign company directors are personally liable for labor law violations
Wrongful termination claims can result in reinstatement + back pay + compensation
Thai labor law overrides any employment contract that provides less than statutory minimums
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Penalties shown are statutory provisions and actual sentences may vary based on case circumstances and judicial discretion. Always consult a qualified Thai lawyer for specific legal advice.
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