This report assesses the challenges migrant workers face in navigating Thailand’s registration system by examining four key areas: the accessibility of the registration process, the actual expenses paid, the debt incurred to cover these costs, and indicators of forced labor such as wage deductions linked to that debt. The study finds that the amnesty program introduced under the 29 December 2020 cabinet resolution has become overly complicated, forcing 93% of migrant workers to rely on brokers and pay registration fees far above government-approved rates. 

As these high costs increase workers’ vulnerability to debt bondage and forced labor, the Migrant Working Group (MWG) calls for urgent policy reforms to simplify registration procedures, regulate fees, and strengthen protections for migrant workers in Thailand.

Access:  Open

Authors: Adisorn Kerdmongkol

Organization: Migrant Working Group (MWG)

Date: 27/01/2023

Language: English & Thai

Country: Thailand