Thailand is taking a bold step forward in labor law reform and Expands Maternity and Paternity Leave. On 16 July 2025, the Thai Parliament passed amendments to the Labor Protection Act, significantly expanding maternity leave and introducing paternity leave for the first time in the private sector.
These changes reflect a growing focus on work-life balance, inclusive workplaces, and improved protections for working parents.
🚼 Key Changes in the 2025 Labor Law Amendment
1. Maternity Leave Increased from 98 to 120 Days
Expectant mothers are now entitled to 120 days of maternity leave, up from the previous 98 days. This aligns Thailand more closely with international labor standards and supports a family-friendly work environment.
2. 15 Days of Paid Paternity Leave Introduced
Fathers and spouses of newborns working in the private sector are now eligible for 15 days of fully paid paternity leave, previously only available to government employees.
3. Wage Entitlement Structure for Maternity Leave
- Employers must pay full salary for the first portion of leave (typically 45–60 days).
- The Social Security Fund (SSF) will cover the remainder (up to 75 days) at 50% of the average wage, depending on eligibility.
4. Additional Leave for Health-Related Childcare
If a child is born with a disability, abnormality, or illness, the mother is entitled to an extra 15 days of paid leave at 50% of her wage—offering vital support for early caregiving.
5. Legislation Status
The bill has passed the House of Representatives and is now under review by the Senate. Implementation is expected soon, so early compliance planning is essential.
đź’Ľ What Expansion of Maternity and Paternity Leave Means for Employers
As a business owner or HR professional, these reforms have immediate operational implications:
âś… Update Your HR Policies
Employers must revise leave policies, employee handbooks, and payroll systems to reflect the new law.
âś… Budget for Leave Payouts
Plan for the full salary portion of maternity and paternity leave and ensure your team understands SSF reimbursement procedures.
âś… Stay Compliant to Avoid Risk
Non-compliance with Thai labor law can lead to penalties and reputational damage. AO can help you assess and close compliance gaps quickly.
đź‘Ş Why This Matters for Families and Workplaces
These reforms reflect Thailand’s commitment to modern labor protections, helping create a more inclusive and supportive work culture:
- Shared caregiving responsibilities between parents
- Better support for women returning to work
- Compassionate leave structures for families with special needs
🧩 At a Glance: Key Facts Table
| Reform Element | Details |
| Maternity Leave | Increased from 98 to 120 days |
| Paternity Leave | New entitlement: 15 fully paid days for private-sector fathers |
| Wage Structure | Employer pays full wage (first 45–60 days); SSF covers ~50% after that. |
| Special Needs Leave | +15 paid days at 50% wage for child disability/illness |
| Status | Passed House; pending Senate approval before enforcement. |
✉️ Contact AO Today
If you’re unsure how these updates affect your business or need help adjusting your systems, we are ready to support you.
At AO Accounting & Advisory, we help both foreign and Thai companies stay compliant with Thailand’s tax laws, ensuring timely filings and mitigating risks. If you’re unsure how to this new rule applies to you and your business, don’t wait until the last minute. Contact Us Today!