Thailand raises minimum wage and tightens visa compliance requirements.

Thailand’s 22nd Wage Committee Resolution came into effect on 1 July 2025 , bringing key changes to the minimum wage, particularly for employees in Bangkok and in the tourism and entertainment sectors. The updated rates are intended to support improved living standards for workers and to align regulatory compliance requirements for companies employing foreign staff.

Under the new rules, the minimum daily wage in Bangkok is now set at THB 400, equivalent to a monthly wage of THB 12,000. This represents an increase from the previous Bangkok rate of THB 372 per day.

A nationwide minimum daily wage of THB 400 has also been introduced for specific sectors:

• Hotel businesses: This applies to hotels classified as Types 2, 3, and 4 under Thai law, which include hotels with two or more stars and at least 50 rooms.
• Entertainment establishments: Businesses covered under the Service Establishment Law—such as karaoke bars, cocktail lounges, and similar venues—will also be subject to the THB 400 daily minimum wage, regardless of location.

Employers are required to comply with these wage levels, and paying below the mandated minimum now carries legal penalties, including potential fines and imprisonment.

Visa-related salary requirements

For companies employing foreign staff and applying for or renewing business visas in Bangkok, a new salary requirement will take effect from 1 July 2025. To meet Immigration Bureau criteria, these companies must ensure that the reported monthly salary of all Thai employees is at least THB 12,000 in both This condition is essential for business visa extensions for foreign personnel.

Provincial minimum wage still applies in other cases

While the THB 400 daily rate applies nationally to the hotel and entertainment sectors, minimum wage rates for other industries continue to vary by province. Companies outside Bangkok that do not fall within the specified sectors must follow the provincial minimum wage rates applicable to their location. These rates are typically published by the Ministry of Labour and local authorities.

The new structure—particularly the introduction of a uniform rate for key service industries—is expected to benefit a large number of workers, especially in the hospitality and entertainment sectors. Companies are advised to review their payroll practices to ensure full compliance with the updated regulations.