UNESCO on December 6, 2023 officially designated the Thai festival of Songkran as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. (Photo: thethaiger.com)
Bangkok (VNA) – Migrant workers from Cambodia, Laos,and Myanmar who plan to go home during the Songkran holidays or any timebetween April 1 and May 15 will not need a re-entry permit, if a proposal by Thailand's Labour Ministry is approved by the Cabinet.
Songkran or Thailand’s traditional New Year is celebrated fromApril 13 to 15 every year. However, this year, the festival is extended to 21days from April 1 to celebrate UNESCO’s official recognition of the festival asan Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Karom Phonphonklang, Thailand’s deputy government spokesperson,said on March 16 that the cancellation of the re-entry permit, proposed by theLabour Ministry, aims to make travel easier for workers from neighbouringcountries and to reduce their expenses during the festive season.
This waiver only applies to Cambodia, Laos or Myanmar passportholders with a non-L-A (legalised labour) visa, which is valid beyond May 15.The waiver also applies to eligible migrant workers’ children below the age of18.
Those who wish to return to Thailand after May 15 will berequired to get a re-entry stamp as usual, Karom said.
The ministry expects the proposal to be approved by the ThaiCabinet soon, and it will notify employers and migrant workers as soon as it ismade official, Karom said./.
