Increased leave benefits for take effect 7 Dec 2025

Amendments to Thailand’s Labour Protection Act will take effect on 7 December 2025 that will improve maternity leave benefits and introduce paternity leave for the first time. 

Maternity Leave extended to 120 days 

Pregnant female employees will be entitled to maternity leave of up to 120 days for a pregnancy. Maternity leave is currently capped at 98 days.   

An employer will be required to pay wages to a pregnant female employee on maternity leave for a period not exceeding 60 days (currently 45 days) or as specified in a Royal Decree. 

Infant Care Leave 

The amendments introduce additional leave for female employees who have taken maternity leave, in the case where the child has: 

• an illness that poses a risk of complications,  

• a medical condition, or  

• a disability 

The request for additional leave must be supported by a medical certificate. Eligible female employees are entitled to an additional 15 days of leave and must be paid 50% of their normal wages for leave taken. 

Introduction of Paternity Leave 

Employees will now have the right to take paid leave of up to 15 days to assist their spouse who has given birth.  

Paternity leave may be taken before or within 90 days after the child’s birth.  

Annual reporting 

Employers with ten or more employees will be required to report annually on employment and working conditions within January of each year.  

Implication for Employers 

The amendment will take effect on 7 December 2025. Employers are advised to: 

• Review the work rules, HR policies, and employee handbooks and consider updates that may be required 

• Ensure HR and payroll systems are aligned with the new leave entitlements. 

• Communicate the updated procedures and benefits clearly to all employees.