Thais residing overseas are now able to renew Thai ID cards at Thai embassies overseas without having to return to Thailand.
Since an MoU was signed in March between Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul and Interior Minister Yongyuth Wichaidit, under which both sides agreed to cooperate in renewing passports of Thai expats, the service has now been launched in Los Angeles.
Starting September 13th, The Royal Thai Consulate in Los Angeles has been authorized to issue new IDs to Thai nationals seeking to replace those lost or damaged. No fees will be charged for expired IDs, but a 1 dollar fee will be charged for lost or damaged IDs. However, those seeking to make their I.D. cards for the first time are not allowed to do so.
The Thai Consulate-General in Los Angeles was the first to offer this service with Thai ID cards as it is better equipped with necessary machines and staff than other consulates.
The Foreign and Interior ministries aim to launch similar services at five more major cities, each with a population of more than 100,000 this year. They include Berlin, Chicago, New York, Singapore and Taipei. The service is expected to become available worldwide by the end of 2013.
Those who are interested in applying need to bring in the expired ID card and 2 copies bearing a clear picture of the 13 digits. Click this link if you are looking for more Thai Embassy news regarding Thai ID cards or other issues. This will be a great help for Thai residing overseas.
News from NNT