Thailand Apostille UK documents follow a specific legal process, especially after Thailand approved accession to the Hague Apostille Convention in December 2025.
However, until the Convention officially enters into force, Thailand Apostille UK documents still require both a UK Apostille and Thai consular legalisation.
This guide explains what Thailand’s accession means, which rules apply now, and what will change once Thailand fully adopts the Apostille system.
Thailand Apostille UK Documents: Current Legal Requirements
At present, anyone using Thailand Apostille UK documents must complete two separate steps.
First, applicants must obtain a UK Apostille from the FCDO.
Next, they must complete Thai consular legalisation through the Royal Thai Embassy.
If either step is missing, Thai authorities may reject the documents.
Does Thailand Accept Apostille Only?
At this stage, Thailand does not accept Apostille-only documents.
Although Thailand approved accession to the Hague Apostille Convention, the legal process remains incomplete.
Specifically, Thailand has not yet deposited its instrument of accession with the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Until that happens, Thai authorities continue to require embassy verification.
Therefore, applicants must still follow the full legalisation route.
What Is a UK Apostille?
A UK Apostille is an official certificate issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
It confirms that a UK document carries a genuine signature, seal, or stamp.
Documents That Go Directly to Apostille
- UK birth certificates
- UK marriage certificates
- UK court documents
Documents That Need Certification First
- Degree certificates
- Passport copies
- Company documents
- Powers of attorney
In these cases, a UK solicitor or notary must certify the document before Apostille.
Why Thai Consular Legalisation Is Still Required
Despite approving accession, Thailand has not activated the Apostille system.
In practice, Thai authorities still require embassy confirmation. Specifically, the Thai Embassy verifies the UK Apostille itself.
For this reason, Thai consular legalisation remains mandatory for Thailand Apostille UK documents.
Step-by-Step: Legalising Thailand Apostille UK Documents
1. Check the Document Type
- Official UK certificates → proceed directly to Apostille
- Copies or private documents → arrange solicitor or notary certification first
2. Obtain the UK Apostille
- Apply through the GOV.UK Legalisation Service
- Submit the original or certified copy
- Receive the Apostille attached to the document
3. Apply for Thai Consular Legalisation
After Apostille, submit the documents to the Royal Thai Embassy in London.
Required documents
- Original Apostilled document
- One photocopy
- Completed application form
- Prepaid return envelope (for postal applications)
Processing Time and Official Fees
| Stage | Typical Time | Official Fee |
|---|---|---|
| UK Apostille (FCDO) | Few working days | £45 per document |
| Thai Consular Legalisation | 3–4 working days | £10 per document |
Submission hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00–12:00.
Thai Translation Requirements
In some cases, Thai authorities request Thai translations.
For example, translations often apply to:
- degree certificates
- court documents
- company records
Therefore, applicants should confirm translation requirements with the receiving authority in Thailand before submission.
What Will Change When Thailand’s Apostille Takes Effect?
Once Thailand completes accession and the Convention enters into force, the process will change.
1. UK Apostille alone will then be sufficient.
2. Thai Embassy legalisation will no longer apply.
3. Processing time and costs will decrease.
By contrast, until an official effective date appears, applicants must still follow the two-step process.
Royal Thai Embassy – Consular Section (London)
Address
29–30 Queen’s Gate, London, SW7 5JB
Phone
020 7589 2944
Email
legalisation.lon@mfa.go.th
Website
https://london.thaiembassy.org/en/index
Why Choose Ginkgo Advisory
Ginkgo Advisory provides fully compliant UK–Thailand document legalisation, supported by a UK-practising solicitor:
- UK solicitor certification
- Express UK FCDO Apostille
- Thai Embassy consular legalisation
- Clear and compliant cross-border guidance
- Bilingual English–Chinese client support
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