In Thailand, failing to pay wages is a violation of the Labour Protection Act B.E. 2541. You can file a complaint with the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare (DLPW) in your province. The process is free and can lead to a decision within 30 to 60 days.
What Thai Law Says About Salary Payments
The Labour Protection Act requires all employers in Thailand to pay wages at least once a month, on the agreed date in the employment contract. Any delay or non-payment can result in a fine of up to 100,000 THB and a prison sentence of up to 6 months for the offending employer.
This protection applies to all workers, regardless of nationality — whether you are French, Belgian, Canadian, Senegalese, Moroccan, or from any other background. Your expatriate status does not diminish your rights.
Steps to Take If Your Salary Is Not Paid
1. Document the Situation Immediately
- Gather your employment contracts, pay slips, bank statements, and any written correspondence (emails, messages)
- Note the exact dates of non-payment
- Keep a copy of your work permit and visa
2. Attempt an Amicable Resolution
Before initiating a formal process, send a written demand to your employer (via email with a read receipt or registered mail). Specify the amount owed, the relevant dates, and a reasonable deadline for payment (usually 7 days).
3. File a Complaint with the DLPW
If the employer does not respond, visit the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare (DLPW) in your province or district. Filing a complaint is free. A labour inspector will summon both parties for mediation. If mediation fails, the case will be referred to the Labour Court.
💡 Good to Know
The DLPW has offices in all Thai provinces. In Bangkok, the central office is located on Mitmaitree Road, Din Daeng. You can also contact the hotline 1506 (available in Thai, with assistance possible in English).
4. Approach the Labour Court
If mediation fails, you can go directly to the Labour Court. The process is simplified for workers: no lawyer is required, and court fees are reduced. The court can order immediate payment of the owed salary, with interest on late payments at 15% per year.
⚠️ Warning
The statute of limitations for claiming unpaid wages in Thailand is 2 years. Don’t wait too long to take action. Additionally, if your work permit is tied to this employer, be sure to understand your mobility rights before leaving your position.
5. Contact Your Embassy or Consulate
In complex situations (employer disappearing, visa issues, threats), reach out to your embassy or consulate in Thailand. They can guide you to recommended lawyers and, in some cases, intervene diplomatically.
✅ Practical Tip
Ousmane, a Cameroonian consultant in Chiang Mai, recovered three months of unpaid wages in less than 45 days through the local DLPW — without a lawyer and at no cost. The key: a well-documented case from the first day of delay.
Summary of Available Remedies
| Remedy | Estimated Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Written Demand | 7-14 days | Free |
| DLPW (Mediation) | 30-60 days | Free |
| Labour Court | 3-6 months | Low (reduced fees) |
| Local Lawyer | Variable | 49€ / 55$ (consultation) |
To learn more about your rights as a foreign worker in Thailand, check out our comprehensive guide: Labour Law in Thailand 2026.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations vary by country and are subject to change. Consult a qualified professional for your specific situation.
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