I have a Thai wife who is now a naturalised British subject. Her son came
to the UK in 2010. He is now aged 20 years old and in full-time
education. He has a Thai passport with unlimited leave to enter the UK.

The grandfather (father-in-law) has told my wife that her Son has to
return to Thailand to complete his military call-up, apparently, if he
is 'chosen', he has to serve in the Thai Army or he forfeits certain
rights and that he is liable to arrest (= shame on the family)

when he returns to Thailand.

My stepson is now being offered a UK college course lasting 3/4 years
in an apprenticeship scheme.Obviously any return to complete Army
Call-up in Thailand would impact on this also, such a time spent out of
the UK would void his current status to freely enter the UK.

Does anyone know of any exemptions or otherwise to being 'called-up'
to the Thai Army that may apply to my stepson, any info would be greatly
appreciated. My stepson is anxious to stay and complete his education
but does not wish to upet his Grandfather.

Thanks for looking.

There is no compulsion to return to Thailand if the person is resident overseas or studying.

Only if he returns to live permanently in Thailand before the age of 30 will he be subject to the recruitment Lottery, he can return to Thailand for short visits with no problem and no fear of arrest.

Patrick

Surely the family could approach the authorities and make enquiries?

As long as he is not registered on a household registration book in Thailand it would not be a problem. Persons living overseas are not called to serve.

When he turns 30 still have to register, but will be placed in the reserve army with a very low possibility of being called for duty.