Bangkok: The National Security Council has issued a letter clarifying the criteria for granting citizenship to long-term immigrants and children born in the Kingdom. This move aims to address citizenship and personal status issues without infringing on the rights of Thai citizens.
According to Thai News Agency, the clarification follows misunderstandings regarding the citizenship process for foreigners born in Thailand. The National Security Council (NSC) outlined the criteria to expedite the resolution of these issues, in line with the Cabinet resolution approved on October 29, 2024. The decision aims to ensure legal clarity and address the status of 19 minority and ethnic groups residing in the Kingdom.
The NSC meeting on August 7, 2024, approved a proposal for the Cabinet’s consideration to resolve the status of these minority groups, including their descendants born in Thailand. The proposal was later approved by the Cabinet on October 29, 2024. The resolution aims to clarify the legal status of these groups by establishing clear conditions for obtaining citizenship.
The process includes two forms of status acquisition: permanent residence certificates for 19 minority and ethnic groups totaling 340,101 individuals and Thai nationality for 143,525 children of these groups born in Thailand. The criteria require a one-year timeframe for applicants to certify their qualifications. Failure to provide accurate information or exhibiting dangerous behavior may lead to revocation of status.
The government has set fees for the procedures at 900 baht for residence certificates and 100 baht for national ID cards. Any excessive charges or irregularities should be reported to the Anti-Corruption Operation Center or the Damrongtham Center to ensure accurate procedures and prevent exploitation.
The NSC emphasized that the initiative is not intended to undermine the rights of Thai citizens but to enhance legal clarity and systematic management. This approach seeks to reduce exploitation opportunities and improve the quality of life, ensuring fairness and human dignity for all individuals residing in Thailand, in accordance with human rights, national security, and national interests.