Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand: (1) the motivation behind workers migrating to Singapore, (2) the obstacles faced by Thai workers in Singapore, (3) the obstacles faced by Thai workers after they return home, and (4) the government support for the life sustainability of Thai migrant workers before and after they work in Singapore. We conducted in-depth interviews with thirty-five Thai migrant workers in Singapore and eight Thai workers who have worked in Singapore in the past. Our study indicates that the primary motivation to migrate to and work in Singapore is to gain a better quality of life and receive and save more money to support their family. Migrant workers are required to study English and Chinese before migrating to Singapore for work because otherwise, they are likely to have problems in communication. In addition, after returning from Singapore and settling down in Thailand, they are considered high-skilled workers and they need to get a job that provides an income that matches the one in Singapore. However, if they receive an income similar to that earned by non-skilled workers, the Thai government should have policies to support them.