The U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Thailand offer a wide range of services to both American citizens and Thai nationals. The U.S. Embassy in Thailand, managed by Siam Legal International, a Thai law firm, serves as a vital link between the United States and Thailand. It provides consular services to U.S. citizens, processes visa applications for Thai and non-U.S. citizens, and promotes diplomatic relations between the two countries. This article offers an overview of the embassy’s services, including passport issuance, U.S. citizenship registration, notarial services, marriage registration, emergency assistance, and the visa application process.
U.S. Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand
- Address: 95 Wireless Road. Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330
- Fax: +66-2-254-1171
- Tel: +66-2-205-4000
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://th.usembassy.gov/
Passport Services:
The embassy assists U.S. citizens in Thailand with various passport-related matters. Lost or stolen passports can be replaced with emergency passports, facilitating travel back to the U.S. Passport renewal and issuance services are also available, including passports for infants and children. Applicants can either visit the embassy in person or apply by mail. Required documents include passport-size photos, proof of U.S. citizenship, and proof of identity.
U.S. Citizenship and Report of Birth:
If an American citizen has a child born in Thailand, the child automatically becomes a U.S. citizen. To obtain a U.S. passport for the child, the birth must be registered at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Thailand. Both parents and the child need to appear in person. Once registered, the child will receive a Certificate of Citizenship and can apply for a U.S. passport.
Notary Services:
Consular officers at the U.S. Embassy provide notarial services to U.S. citizens in Thailand. These services include acknowledgment of signature, power of attorney, and certified copies of U.S. passports. However, certain services such as certifying academic credentials, marriage, birth, and divorce certificates issued in the U.S. without authentication from the U.S. Department of State are not offered. In such cases, a competent Thai notary lawyer can certify the documents for use in Thailand.
Marriage Affidavit:
For U.S. citizens planning to legally marry in Thailand, a marriage affidavit must be obtained from the embassy or consulate to confirm eligibility for marriage. The affidavit can be obtained by appearing in person at the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok and signing it in the presence of a consular officer. If both partners are U.S. citizens, each needs to obtain a separate affidavit.
Income Affidavit:
The embassy no longer provides income affidavits for Thai marriage and retirement visa applications. Instead, U.S. citizens must open a Thai bank account and transfer the required monthly income, such as personal/employment income or social security benefits, into the account to meet the Thai Immigration Bureau’s requirements.
Emergency Assistance:
In the event of arrest or victimization in Thailand, U.S. citizens have the right to meet with a consular official who can provide information on the justice system and connect them with reputable Thai lawyers. Consular officials monitor the progress of cases and assist with communication between the affected individuals and their relatives in the U.S. In case of a U.S. citizen’s death in Thailand, the embassy confirms the death, notifies the next-of-kin, and helps coordinate repatriation. It’s important to note that the embassy does not offer financial assistance or cover medical expenses.
Visa Section:
The U.S. Embassy in Thailand has a dedicated Visa Section that processes visa applications for Thai and foreign nationals residing in Thailand who wish to enter the U.S. This section handles both nonimmigrant and immigrant visa applications, including tourist and business visas, fiancé visas, marriage visas, work visas, and visa waiver applications. Nonimmigrant visitor visas are available for business, tourism, or a combination of both purposes.
For appointments at the embassy’s Consular and Visa Sections, visitors must book an appointment through the official embassy website.
Conclusion:
The U.S. Embassy in Thailand plays a crucial role in providing consular services, processing visas, and offering assistance to U.S. citizens in Thailand. From passport services to U.S. citizenship registration, notarial services, marriage affidavits, and emergency support, the embassy serves as a valuable resource for Americans in Thailand. Additionally, the Visa Section processes various nonimmigrant and immigrant visa applications.
