What is the full embassy legalization process in Thailand?
Chain: (1) certified translation → (2) NSA notarization → (3) MFA Consular Affairs stamp → (4) destination embassy in Bangkok. Turnaround 5–15 business days. For Hague countries, Apostille replaces step 4 (faster + cheaper).
Detailed Answer
Full embassy legalization chain for Thai documents going to a non-Hague country: (1) Certified translation by an NPT translator (Thai → destination language or → English) — THB 500/page+; (2) Notarial Services Attorney (NSA) certifies the translation accuracy and signature — THB 1,500+; (3) MFA Department of Consular Affairs, Chaeng Watthana Government Complex, places the consular legalization stamp — THB 400/page (express +THB 800); (4) Destination embassy in Bangkok places its own legalization stamp — fee varies THB 800–6,000 depending on embassy (UAE, Saudi, Vietnam, China, Egypt, etc.); (5) Optional: foreign ministry legalization in destination country (some require this). Total chain: 5–15 business days. Effective 14 Dec 2025, Thailand is Hague Apostille — for 125+ countries step 4 becomes a single Apostille and step 5 is eliminated.