The government is accelerating investigations and legal actions against illegal recruitment agencies that deceive Thai workers into working in Ireland, causing them to lose large sums of money. Legal measures are being enforced to warn Thai citizens not to fall victim repeatedly, along with advice on five legal ways to work abroad.
On 31 July 2026, Second Lieutenant Phatdarasmit Thongsaluaykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, spoke about numerous victims in Chiang Rai province who were deceived by a recruitment agency to work in Ireland and suffered significant financial losses. She said the government, through the Ministry of Labor, has instructed relevant agencies to assist all affected individuals and to prosecute the criminals who falsely promised overseas work.
The Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office reminded those seeking work abroad not to be misled by social media invitations or companies claiming they can arrange work overseas. She emphasized that there are only five legal ways to work abroad: registered recruitment companies licensed by the Department of Employment sending workers; direct placement by the Department of Employment; workers traveling independently; employers in Thailand taking employees abroad; and employers sending employees for internships abroad.
According to the Employment Services and Job Seekers Protection Act of 1985, penalties apply to those illegally recruiting workers for overseas jobs without authorization. Offenders face imprisonment from three to ten years or fines from 60,000 to 200,000 baht, or both. Advertising unauthorized employment services is punishable by up to three years in prison or fines up to 60,000 baht, or both.
Second Lieutenant Phatdarasmit added that those who travel abroad illegally or through natural routes not only risk becoming victims of human trafficking but also violate immigration laws, which carry additional penalties.