How are foreign documents legalised for use inside Thailand?
Processing time: Standard legalisation 3–5 business days
This is the question most people using Thai documents abroad ask — Processing time: Standard legalisation 3–5 business days · Express 1–2 business days · Full chain (translation + MFA + destination embassy) 5–7 business days. The usual causes of delay are name spellings that do not match the passport, unclear seals, and copies older than the receiving authority allows — all of which we check before submission. 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?