Thailand requires fingerprints for nine criminal record checks

Thailand's Criminal Records Division has reminded applicants that nine types of criminal record check cannot be completed using a person's name and surname alone. Applicants in these cases, when criminal checks are required, must provide fingerprints instead.

The notice, dated 19 July 2026, covers several possible applications when a check may be required, including permanent residence, permission to stay and certificates of good conduct needed for overseas use.

The Criminal Records Division said fingerprint checks are required when applying for a criminal record check, when requested, under the relevant rules and procedures for the following nine categories:

1. Applications for government posts or work with state agencies and state enterprises.

2. Permissions handled by the Department of Provincial Administration, including applications involving firearms, the antique trade, hotel businesses, pawnshops, foundations or associations, and Thai nationality.

3. Matters handled by Immigration, including applications for permanent residence in Thailand and permission to remain in the kingdom.

4. Adoption applications made through the Adoption Centre.

5. Applications for royal decorations.

6. Travel to work in South Korea through the Department of Overseas Employment under the Ministry of Labour.

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7. First-time driving licence applications.

8. Applications for a certificate of good conduct for travel abroad, or for an English-language certificate of good conduct. These are handled by the Certificate of Good Conduct Service Centre at the Special Branch Bureau, telephone 02-551-1999.

9. Criminal record checks requested by people who are not Thai nationals. Foreign applicants must use fingerprints and include a letter from the relevant organisation supporting the request.

What foreign applicants should prepare

For expats and visitors, the practical point is that a name-based search will not be accepted for criminal record check. A criminal record check can be requested, in some cases, by the relevant authorities, for immigration-related checks, a first Thai driving licence, or police clearance documents required for a visa or job.

Applicants who are required to get a check, should therefore allow time for fingerprinting rather than assuming a criminal record certificate can be obtained through a simple name-and-surname request.

Non-Thai applicants should also check with the organisation asking for the record check - such as an employer, immigration authority or overseas embassy - to ensure they have the required supporting letter.

The announcement does not make any changes to the listed application categories or current agencies procedures, but makes clear that fingerprints are the only accepted checking method in these cases when a criminal check is required.

Picture courtesy of Komchadluek

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21 July 2026