Citizen In Thailand 2023-2024 | Application & Requirements

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How to Become a Citizen In Thailand

How to get Thailand citizenship by marriage

Here is a step-by-step process for obtaining Thai citizenship through marriage:

• Meet eligibility requirements: One spouse must be a Thai national, and the marriage must be legally registered in Thailand
• Collect required documents: A marriage certificate, passport, ID card, and house registration documents
• Submit the application: Go to the Thai immigration Bureau and submit the application form and the required documents
• Attend an interview: The applicants will be called for an interview to assess the validity of their marriage and relationship
• Wait for approval: The processing time for the citizenship application can take between 6 to 12 months. However, it is advised that applicants wait patiently until everything is processed completely
• Take the oath of allegiance: If the citizenship application is approved, the applicant must take the oath of allegiance to the Thai monarchy and renounce their previous citizenship
• Receiving Thai citizenship: After completing all the basic requirements, the applicant will receive Thai citizenship and be eligible for a Thai passport

It is important to note that requirements and processes are subject to change, so it is best to check with the Thai immigration Bureau for the most up-to-date information.

How to get Thailand citizenship by investment

Getting Thai citizenship through investment is possible, but the specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on the regulations in place at the time of your application. However, here are the general steps required:

• Invest a substantial amount of money in a business, real estate, or government-approved project in Thailand. Note that the specific amount required for investment can vary and may change over time
• Meet the eligibility criteria for citizenship, such as proof of financial stability, criminal background check, and good moral character
• Apply for citizenship to the relevant Thai government agency, along with all the required documents and evidence of the investment
• Wait for the decision on your application, which may likely take several months
• If your application is approved, you may be required to take an oath of allegiance and attend a citizenship ceremony
• After the ceremony, you will receive your Thai citizenship certificate

The requirements and procedures for obtaining Thai citizenship through investment can be complex and may change frequently. It is recommended to seek the advice of a qualified immigration lawyer or official government agency for the most up-to-date information.

How to get Thailand citizenship by birth

Getting Thai citizenship by birth can be obtained through descent from a Thai parent, by birth within the territory of Thailand, or by naturalization after meeting the eligibility criteria. Here is a general step-by-step guide:

• Determine if you are eligible for Thai citizenship by birth, such as being born to a Thai parent, born in Thailand for a certain period, and meeting other requirements
• Gather all required documents, such as birth certificates, passports, proof of residency, and evidence of Thai parentage (if applicable)
• Apply for citizenship to the relevant Thai government agency, along with all required documents
• Wait for the decision on your application, which may take six months or more in most cases
• If your application is approved, you may be required to take an oath of allegiance and attend a citizenship ceremony
• After the ceremony, you will receive your Thai citizenship certificate

How to apply for Thai citizenship?

Here is a step-by-step process on how to apply for Thai citizenship:

• Gather required documents: This should include both original and photocopies of your passport, birth certificate, proof of residency in Thailand, police clearance certificate, and marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Complete the citizenship application form, available at the local district office or the central immigration Bureau in Bangkok
• Submit the application form and all required documents to the local district office or central immigration bureau
• Pay the processing fee at the designated bank or the immigration office
• Wait for the processing of the application, which can take between 6 to 12 months or more
• Attend an interview, if required, at the immigration office
• Receive a decision on the application, either approval or denial. If approved, take the oath of allegiance and complete any other necessary information

How long does a Thai citizenship application take to process?

The processing time for a Thai citizenship application can vary, and it all depends on several contributing factors, such as the completeness and accuracy of the application, the workload of the government agency processing the application, and the case’s complexity.

The processing time can generally take several months or up to a year. It is recommended to inquire with the relevant government agency handling the application for an estimated processing time and to keep track of its progress.

What documents do I need when applying for Thai citizenship?

Here is a list of the required documents you need when applying for Thai citizenship in Thailand:

• Application form: Fully completed and signed
• Passport: Original and a copy of the bio page
• ID card: Original and a copy
• House registration documents: Original and a copy
• Marriage certificate: Original and a copy must be legally registered in Thailand
• Proof of financial stability: Proof of income, bank statement, or other financial documents showing the ability to support oneself in Thailand
• Proof of residence: Proof of ongoing residency in Thailand, such as a lease agreement or utility bills
• Background check: Criminal background check from the applicant’s home country
• Oath of allegiance: Must be taken and signed after the approval of the citizenship application

This is a general list; requirements may vary based on individual circumstances and are subject to change at any time.

Thailand citizenship requirements

Before you can apply for Thai citizenship, you must first fulfill the basic requirements listed below:

• You must be at least 18 years old and above
• You must have lived in Thailand as a Permanent Resident for at least five years before applying
• You must have been living in Thailand for those years on the same type of visa that you have at the time of application.
• You must have a clean criminal record and be well-behaved
• You must be working in Thailand
• You must be able to understand, speak, and write the Thai language
• You should be able to sing the Thai National Anthem, Sanserm Phra Baramee
• You should acquire at least 50 points out of 100 on the Points Based System of obtaining Thai Citizenship

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Thai permit dual citizenship?

No, the Thai government doesn’t allow dual citizenship. Thai law requires citizens to renounce their foreign citizenship when acquiring Thai nationality. Exceptions may only apply to children born to Thai parents abroad.

How much does the application for Thai citizenship cost?

The application for Thai Citizenship costs as follows:

• 10,000 Thai Baht per application for applicants who are at least 18 years of age
• 5,000 Thai Baht per application for the children of applicants who are below 18 years of age
• 1,000 Thai Baht for the Certificate of Naturalization
• 2,000 Thai Baht per application for Recovery of Thai Nationality

Is it hard to get Thai citizenship? 

Getting Thai citizenship can be difficult, as there are strict requirements and a long process involved. Requirements typically include having lived in the country for a certain number of years, having a stable income, and demonstrating a good understanding of the Thai language and culture. Furthermore, the Thai government can either approve or reject citizenship applications.

In conclusion, obtaining Thai citizenship in 2023 requires meeting specific criteria, including a minimum of 5 years of consecutive residency in Thailand, knowledge of the Thai language and culture, a stable source of income, a clean criminal record, and renouncing current citizenship.

For individuals who match the qualifications, the procedure offers the chance to completely integrate into Thai society and take advantage of being a Thai citizen, however it can be time-consuming and may necessitate the assistance of a local attorney.

To ensure a smooth and successful application, it is advised to extensively research the prerequisites and procedure if you are thinking about applying for Thai citizenship.