Cambodia Warns Firms Against Demanding National ID From Returning Migrant Workers

PHNOM PENH, Jan 26, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training has warned enterprises and factories they will face penalties if they demand national identity cards from Cambodian migrant workers returning from Thailand when applying for jobs.

In a statement, the ministry said such requirements violate labour regulations and are subject to fines under the Labour Law.

The practice also contradicts Notification No. 026/25, issued in August 2025, which exempts returning workers from presenting national ID cards.

Employers are instead permitted to accept alternative documents for work book applications and registration with the National Social Security Fund.

These include birth certificates, family books, passports, migrant worker travel documents, Cambodia Thailand border passes or identity certification letters issued by local authorities.

The ministry urged the public to report any employer insisting on national ID cards as the sole requirement for job applications.

Complaints can be filed with labour inspectors via hotlines 1286 or 1297, or through the ministry’s anonymous online system.

Authorities said they expect all enterprises and factories to comply fully with the notification.