Guide to Residence Certificate for Expats in Thailand
What Is a Residence Certificate?
A Residence Certificate is an official confirmation of your current address in Thailand. This document is often required by Thai authorities when you need to prove where you live — especially for administrative or legal purposes.
When You Need a Residence Certificate
Foreigners in Thailand are commonly asked to present this document in various situations, such as:
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Registering or transferring ownership of a motorbike or car
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Applying for or renewing a Thai driving license
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Opening a Thai bank account
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Requesting a Thai Tax ID Number (TIN)
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Applying for a Yellow Tabien Baan (House Registration Book)
👉 Note: If you are applying for both a car and a motorbike license, you will need two separate certificates.
While many embassies issue their own versions of this certificate, the requirements and fees differ. This guide focuses on the certificate issued by the Thai Immigration Bureau.
Where to Apply in Hua Hin
In Hua Hin (Prachuap Khiri Khan province), Residence Certificates are only available at the main Immigration Office. The Bluport Shopping Mall branch does not issue this document.
Required Documents
Before visiting the immigration office, prepare the following:
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Application form (available for free at the office)
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Original passport
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Copies of your visa page, latest entry stamp, and current extension of stay
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Two passport photos for each certificate
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Proof of address, such as:
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Rental contract
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House ownership documents
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TM30 receipt (address notification)
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Processing Time and Fees
The standard process takes about one week:
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Day 1: Submit your documents
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Day 8: Collect your Residence Certificate
✅ Free of charge
If you need it urgently, you can use the fast-track option at the small office behind Immigration.
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Fee: 500 THB per certificate
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Processing time: 20–30 minutes
FAQs about the Residence Certificate in Thailand
1. Can I apply for a Residence Certificate online?
No, the process must be done in person at your local Immigration Office. Each office may have slightly different requirements.
2. Can I use my embassy’s certificate instead?
Sometimes, yes — but not for all purposes. Thai Immigration and the Department of Land Transport typically require the Immigration-issued version.
3. How long is the certificate valid?
Usually, 3 to 6 months, depending on the purpose. Always check the expiry date before reusing it for other applications.
4. What if my TM30 is outdated?
You’ll need to update your TM30 before applying, as it serves as proof of your current address.
Further information can be found at the link provided: https://mfa.go.th/en/index
📞 Need help applying for your Residence Certificate in Hua Hin?
Visit OneStop Hua Hin – Expat Multiservices Hub. Our team can assist you with document preparation, copies, photos, and applications directly at Immigration.
