Q1026. Do Thai university degrees and transcripts require prior approval from the Ministry of Education before MFA legalization?

Answered by the NYC Visa & Translation legalization desk

Thai university degrees and transcripts should not automatically be routed to the Ministry of Education before MFA legalization. University documents generally fall within the higher-education framework, where MHESI may be the relevant authority, but the authentication route depends on the institution and document. Ask your university registrar and the MFA whether direct submission is available or prior verification is required. Obtain registrar-issued documents or properly certified copies, and confirm whose signature must be authenticated. Prepare translations only after checking the destination’s language requirements and the MFA’s submission rules. A common pitfall is treating a university-certified photocopy as equivalent to an original for every receiving authority. Verify the applicable route with the Department of Consular Affairs and, where relevant, MHESI before filing.