Thai Citizenship: Most Frequently Asked Questions
Have any questions about Thai Citizenship? Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions below.
Do I Qualify To Acquire Thai Citizenship?
Below are some of the main categories of people who would generally qualify for Thai Citizenship:
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- People who have lived in Thailand as Permanent Resident for at least five years.
- People who are married to Thai Citizens.
- People who are born to a Thai parent.
- People who at one time held Thai Citizenship.
- People who have performed a duty that benefitted Thailand.
To see the full requirements, please check out our guide.
Key Points
- If you want to apply for Thai Citizenship, you should make the application at a Special Division of the Police.
- The Thai government doesn’t require you to renounce your prior nationality after you obtain Thai Citizenship.
- While the process can be long and tiring, getting Thai Citizenship is not that difficult.
How Long Does a Thai Citizenship Application Take to Process?
The whole process of a Thai Citizenship application can take between 6 to 12 months, starting from the date you submit your documentation. However, in some cases, it can be longer than a year since a number of things could delay the process.
Can I Hold Dual Citizenship?
Yes, you can have dual citizenship. The Thai government doesn’t require you to renounce your prior nationality after you obtain Thai Citizenship. Similarly, if you apply for the nationality of another country while you have a Thai passport, you can still keep both citizenship/passport.
That said, do check with your home country if you can hold dual citizenship. If you have the citizenship of a country that doesn’t allow dual citizenship, you will have to renounce your prior citizenship before you become a Thai citizen.
Thai citizenship offers many benefits to those who want to call Thailand their home.
Where Should I Go To Apply For a Thai Citizenship?
If you want to apply for Thai Citizenship, you should make the application at a Special Division of the Police, either in Bangkok or where you live. If you need help with the preparations and application, you can work with an experienced agent who will take care of the whole process for you.
There are agents who can help you prepare and submit the documents, making the whole process faster and easier.
What should I wear when I’m taking the Citizenship Oath at the Police Headquarters?
You have to appear smartly dressed. You may also have to hold a candle, flowers, and incense.
Is Becoming a Thai Citizen Difficult?
While the process can be long and tiring, getting Thai Citizenship is not that difficult.
Yes, it isn’t available to just anyone, but the process is more or less on par with the process of getting a western nationality.
Many people give up once they see the requirements, but if you prepare yourself well in advance, it shouldn’t be too difficult. The only complicated part of the whole process is the paperwork, but there are agents who can help you prepare and submit the documents.
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