Can an old document still be legalised for overseas use?
Prepare the following for official Thai documents: (a) originals or government-issued certified copies, (b) a copy of the holder's ID or passport, (c) a power of attorney (we draft it), (d) the destination country and pu
The approach receiving authorities accept is this: Prepare the following for official Thai documents: (a) originals or government-issued certified copies, (b) a copy of the holder's ID or passport, (c) a power of attorney (we draft it), (d) the destination country and purpose for submission to a foreign authority or embassy, so the translation format matches its rules. Bundle with NAATI certified translation, Notary Public certification and Police Clearance in a single file to save weeks.
Quick facts
- Current status: Thailand still uses consular legalisation today; the Hague Apostille Convention enters into force for Thailand on 28 February 2027.
- Turnaround: Standard legalisation 3–5 business days · Express 1–2 business days · Full chain (translation + MFA + destination embassy) 5–7 business days
- Office: Legalisation Division, Department of Consular Affairs, Chaeng Watthana Road, Bangkok · Mon–Fri 08:30–15:30 · nationwide document pickup by post or messenger
Related questions
- → What is an Apostille and how does it differ from consular legalisation?
- → Can Thailand issue an Apostille yet?
- → When does the Apostille Convention enter into force for Thailand?
- → How are Thai documents legalised before the Apostille route starts?
- → Does an Apostille certify the contents of a document?