Thai police clearance certificate: what you need and in what order
Short answer: the certificate is issued by the Royal Thai Police. Before applying, ask the authority that will receive it three things in writing — how recent it must be, whether it must be translated, and whether it needs legalisation or an apostille. Those answers decide the order of every other step.
Typical order of steps
- Confirm the receiving authority's requirements.
- Apply to the Royal Thai Police through the current official channel.
- Arrange a certified translation if the receiving authority asks for one.
- Complete Ministry of Foreign Affairs certification and embassy legalisation, if required.
- Submit within the validity period the receiving authority accepts.
Mistakes that force you to start again
- Applying too early, so the certificate is too old when the visa file is lodged.
- Name spelling or passport number not matching the passport used for the visa application.
- Not checking whether the destination wants the certificate translated, legalised or both.
- Forgetting that a certificate covering previous passports may need those passport details too.
- Relying on unofficial agents who promise a 'clean' record — no one can change what the record shows.
Questions we are asked most
Who issues a Thai police clearance certificate?
The Royal Thai Police issues criminal record certificates. Foreigners who lived in Thailand and Thai nationals can both apply. Check the current application channels, including any online system, on the Royal Thai Police website before you start.
Can I apply if I have already left Thailand?
Often yes, usually with fingerprints taken abroad and supporting documents sent through an embassy or authorised channel. Requirements change, so confirm the current process with the Royal Thai Police or the Thai embassy where you live.
Does the certificate need translation or legalisation?
It depends on the receiving authority. Many foreign immigration offices want a certified English version, and some also require certification by Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the destination embassy, or an apostille where accepted.
How old can the certificate be?
Each receiving authority sets its own limit, and many only accept recent certificates. Plan the application so the certificate is still valid on the day your visa or permit file is submitted.
Do you publish prices or guarantee the outcome?
No. We quote after reviewing your situation, and the content of the certificate and any decision is made by the authorities.
Official sources: Royal Thai Police and Department of Consular Affairs, Thailand. Thai version (ภาษาไทย)
Need the certificate planned around your visa deadline?
Our translation and legalisation team checks what the receiving authority asks for and arranges translation and legalisation. Decisions are made by the authorities.