Thailand Introduces Employer Funded Paid Paternity Leave

This change is Thailand’s most substantial parental leave reform in over a decade, signalling a clear policy shift toward enhanced support for working families.

HR Policy Global Perspective: Globally, Thailand has one of the fastest declining birthrates, with a Total Fertility Rate of 1.0.  Over the past 74 years, births have declined by 81%, making it one of the most rapidly aging countries in Asia. The decline presents serious long-term challenges for economic growth, workforce sustainability, and social support systems. Without policy shifts—such as enhanced childcare, parental leave, or migration reform—the labour market is likely to tighten further.

In more detail

Amendments to the Labour Protection Act were passed in mid-July approving 120 days of paid maternity leave for female employees. Employers are required to pay for 60 days of the maternity leave (at 50% of the daily wage rate), while the Social Security Fund covers the remaining 60 days (also at up to 50% daily wage).  Previously, the maternity provision was 98 days (with 45 employer paid, 45 covered by the SSF, and 8 days unpaid).

Significantly, the act now provides for 15 days of fully paid paternity leave for spouses supporting newborn caregiving. The act is gender neutral with respect to the spouse, and the leave is to be paid in full by employers.

Thailand’s Senate review of the expanded parental leave provisions should take place in the legislative session immediately following July 2025, with final passage expected by the end of the year.

Impact for Employers

• Employers will now cover 60 days of maternity leave pay (previously 45), representing a 33% increase in direct wage obligations during leave.
• For paternity leave, employers will be required to fully fund 15 days of paid leave, which is a new mandatory cost not previously enforced in the private sector.
• Employers should commence a review of employment contracts and HR policies and ensure proper documentation for claiming reimbursements from the Social Security Fund (for 60 days of maternity leave).