Work hours, leave & equality: Thailand Labour Protection Act drafts move forward

At a glance

• On 24 September 2025, the Thai House of Representatives approved two draft Labour Protection Bills in principle, with further review underway.
• The first bill proposes reducing standard working hours, increasing paid annual leave, and mandating two weekly rest days.
• The second bill introduces menstrual leave, family care leave, breastfeeding facilities, and anti-discrimination protections.
• Employers would be required to support work-life balance and inclusivity through new leave entitlements and workplace accommodations.
• An ad hoc committee has been appointed to refine the proposals before further legislative steps.

On 24 September 2025, the House of Representatives considered two draft Labour Protection Bills and unanimously approved both in principle. An ad hoc committee was appointed to conduct further review and refinement of the proposals.

Key provisions in the draft bills

First draft bill

• Working hours: Limits standard working hours to 40 hours per week (down from 48 hours). For jobs classified as hazardous to health and safety (as defined by ministerial regulations), the limit is 35 hours per week.
• Weekly rest days: Requires employers to provide at least two rest days per week, with no more than five consecutive working days between rest days.
• Annual leave: Employees who have worked continuously for at least 120 days are entitled to a minimum of ten days of paid annual leave (previously six days after a completion of one year of service).

Second draft bill

• Non-discrimination: Employers must ensure equal treatment of all employees, regardless of disability, gender identity, religion, beliefs, or political views.
• Menstrual leave: Female employees are entitled to up to three days of menstrual leave per month, which will not be counted as sick leave and will exclude any holidays that fall within the leave period.
• Family care leave: Employees may take up to 15 working days per year to care for family members or close individuals. For leave of five days or more, employers can request a medical certificate or death certificate.
• Breastfeeding facilities: Employers must provide a suitable space and necessary equipment for breastfeeding or milk expression. Employees are entitled to at least two sessions per day, 30 minutes each, during an eight-hour workday, for at least one year after childbirth.