Consular affairs, an integral part of foreign services, continue to play a pivotal role in maintaining strong international relations. Since its establishment in 1999, the Department of Consular Affairs, operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), has stood the test of time, adapting to the winds of change brought about by globalisation, the rise of IT and digital technology, and evolving geopolitical landscapes.

The scope of services offered by the Department of Consular Affairs goes beyond the issuance of passports. The department is also responsible for visa facilitation, legalisation services, and the protection of Thai nationals abroad, including overseas voting. The underlying principle guiding the department's work is centred on improving services for the people and ensuring effective coordination with relevant authorities.

Over the years, the Department of Consular Affairs has made significant strides in enhancing its services. For instance, the time required to obtain a passport has dramatically reduced from 2 weeks in 1987 to a mere 3 days today. However, complacency is not part of their strategy. The department continues to learn from past mistakes, invest in human capital, adapt to new environments, reach out to communities, and embrace innovative technologies such as online applications, social networks, cloud systems, blockchain, and chat GPT. These advancements enable the department to be better prepared for emerging challenges, ranging from global connectivity and the resurgence of travel demand to ensuring the safety of Thai nationals abroad and addressing cross-border issues such as human trafficking.

The Department of Consular Affairs is once again at the forefront of innovation with the expansion of its e-Consular Department, bringing out significant improvements in passport issuance, visa facilitation, legalisation services and the protection of Thai nationals abroad. As part of their commitment to delivering efficient and secure services, the department has introduced several ground-breaking initiatives.

Outlined below are a few examples of the department's future plans:

1. E-Passport : With 18 passport offices located across the country and seven offices in Bangkok,
   the Department of Consular Affairs has Introduced an online booking for passport application ten years ago, streamlining the process and significantly reducing waiting times. Applicants now have the convenience of either picking up their passports within 3 days or opting for doorstep delivery. Additionally, Self- Enrolment Passport Kiosks were recently installed in selected passport offices, providing a user-friendly experience. To apply for a passport using this service, applicants be 20 years of age and ever, and only need their Thai National ID card and a mobile banking app.Thailand takes pride   in being the first country in the world to utilise this technology. The new passport design also incorporates cutting- edge features, including a duplex security pattern, window lock, relief design, and tactile elements. The Department of Consular Affairs remains committed to delivering efficient and people centric services. By leveraging technology and adopting innovative approaches, they are poised to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global landscape. For more information and updates ontheir initiatives, please visit Official Website.

2. E-Visa : The Department of Consular Affairs has launched an innovative and expedited e-Visa system aimed at streamlining the visa application process. In February 2019, the department introduced the Thai e-Visa at the Royal Thai Embassy in Beijing, marking a significant step forward. The system has since been enhanced and recalibrated to introduce stickerless e-Visas on 27 September 2021. Applicants can now conveniently submit their applications through the user friendly website https://www.thaievisa.go.th. The system enables applicants to complete the entire application process virtually, including document submission,online verification, approval, and payment. Notably, the process is contactless, eliminating the need for physical document submission or visits Embassies or Consulates-General.   

   The e-Visa system is currently available at 38 Embassies and Consulates - General in 23 countries, with plans to expand its coverage to all other offices worldwide.
   The second phase of the system will introduce enhanced cloud technology, an improved digital verification system, multilingual support in eight languages, and further integration with relevant authorities' data.

3. E-Legalisation System : Recognising the growing demand for legalising documents such as household certificates, marriage certificates, birth and death certificates, and contract/business agreements, the Department of Consular Affairs introduced the e-legalisation system last year. This paperless application proce applicants to submit their documents with the assistance of front office staff, who input the information directly into the e-Legalisation system.

   The system incorporates electronic signatures and QR codes to ensure document authentication, providing applicants with easy access to verified documents. Additionally, a new hologram sticker has been implemented to enhance security measures and prevent forgery. In the coming year, the department plans to explore the Apostille Convention, which includes 120 member countries, to further streamline and expedite the legalisation process.

4. The Protection of Thais Abroad : In an increasingly uncertain world, the Department of Consular Affairs remains dedicated to providing comprehensive assistance to Thai nationals residing abroad.To address emergency situations, the department established the Rapid Response Centre (RRC) last year. Comprising various Thai authorities, the RRC coordinates and responds swiftly to overseas emergencies.

   Recent successful operations include the evacuation of Thai nationals affected by an earthquake in Turkey and the safe repatriation of Thai students from a civil war - torn Sudan. Additionally, the department is actively engaged in combating scams and illegal employment abroad, ensuring the welfare and safety of Thai citizens. 

    

   The Department of Consular Affairs remains committed to modernising its services, aligning itself with current trends, and emphasising a people - centred approach.
   The introduction of the Oversea Voting Monitoring System (OVMS) is a testament to this commitment. Previously relying on consular officers in 94 missions abroad, the department now utilises an online, real-time system to monitor the preparation and activities of consular officers involved in overseas elections. This digitalisation Initiative underscores the department's dedication to providing efficient services embedded in digital technology.

   As part of Thailand's Public Diplomacy efforts, the Department of Consular Affairs aims to enhance service delivery through digital technology.   Looking ahead, the department is also exploring initiatives within the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework, embracing sustainable development principles for public benefit.

    

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Department  of Consular Affairs

                                                                                                              17 May 2023