Are you dreaming of Thai citizenship? Here you find the ways that your path to get a Thai passport made easy. In this article, you will find a comprehensive guide on How to Get Thai Citizenship.
Many foreigners have chosen Thailand as their home for many decades. Thai citizenship is the ultimate gift for long-term Thai residents. Thailand is a beautiful peaceful and captivating country to locate in.
Getting Thai Citizenship through naturalization is a long and often difficult process. Yet, for those who have chosen to make Thailand their home. Whether your reasons are for family, work, or love the country, you’re ready to live here permanently.
Criteria need to apply for Thai Citizenship
- You can apply for Thai Citizenship if you meet the following criteria:
- Your age is at least 18 years old.
- You have a clean criminal record and no history of trouble with the police.
- You have lived in Thailand as a Permanent Residence for at least five years.
- You are working in Thailand.
- You can speak, read, and write the Thai language.
- You acquired at least 50 points (out of 100) on the Points-Based System (more on this later).
However, some of the above qualifications will not required if:
- You married to a Thai woman.
- You are the child of someone who received Thai Citizenship through naturalization.
- At least one time you hold Thai Citizenship.
- In these cases, you should get Thai Citizenship after three years of living on visa extensions without having a Permanent Residency.
3 Best ways to own Thai Citizenship
You may hear some options like Elite, Marriage, and Retirement visas. But there may be some unexpected choices you haven’t considered. Here you get the guide from some aspects.
Thai Citizenship by Birth
Acquiring citizenship in Thailand through birth is a common way. It follows some rules determined by Thai nationality laws. Generally, citizenship by birth is granted to individuals born in Thailand to Thai parents.
In Thailand, citizenship is determined through the law of “jus sanguinis”. Which means “right of blood.” This law grants citizenship based on the nationality of one or both parents.
If at least one of the child’s parents is a Thai citizen at the time of the child’s birth. The child is generally eligible for Thai citizenship.
Thai Citizenship through marriage
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022. Obtaining Thai citizenship through marriage follows a specific set of rules by Thailand law.
To be eligible for Thai citizenship by marriage. You typically need to be married to a Thai nationality holder. The marriage should be legally recognized in Thailand.
Living in Thailand for a specified period is a common requirement. As of my last update, it was necessary to have been a resident for at least five years. This period may vary. You should check with the Thai immigration authorities for the most recent information.
There is also a language need. The ability to speak, write, and understand basic Thai language is necessary. The level of proficiency required can vary.
Thai Citizenship through Residency
Thailand requires at least five years of continuous residency. For foreigners to be eligible for Thai citizenship.
Applicants must need to provide their documentation. To prove their continuous residence in Thailand during the required period. There may be language requirements as part of the naturalization process.
Benefits you get to have Thai citizenship
If you own a Thai passport you will get remarkable benefits like you get;
- Ability to vote there.
- Access to work opportunities
- Equal protection rights
- Freedom of assembly
- Freedom to work
- No restrictions on business ownership
- Access to financial services.
If you have your heart set on “being Thai”, here’s exactly what you need to do to become a naturalized Thai citizen.
FAQs
Q: Can I keep my original citizenship if get Thai citizenship?
A: Yes, marrying a Thai citizen is a common way to get Thai citizenship. In this way, your original citizenship will retained.
Q: Are there age restrictions for applying for Thai citizenship?
A: There is no strict age limit. Specific requirements vary for applicants of different age groups.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Thai citizenship can be obtained through marriage to a Thai citizen. Meeting criteria for legal and specific requirements. On the other way, the minimum continuous residency. That is around five years with proof of residence is another common route.
I want to mention here unofficial news. That people will not get a Thai passport after five years of residency. So applicants should stay informed about current immigration laws. And seek guidance from Thai authorities for the latest information.
