Q1343. Does Thailand have Notary Publics like other countries?

Answered by the NYC Visa & Translation team

Thailand does not have Notary Publics in the common-law sense (as in the US, UK, or Australia). Instead, it uses 'Notarial Services Attorneys' — lawyers who have completed specific training and are registered with the Lawyers Council of Thailand. They can witness signatures, certify true copies, and provide other notarial acts under the applicable regulations. Key points: (1) A notarial attorney's certification is usually only the first step — documents for use abroad typically also need legalisation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the destination country's embassy. (2) Each receiving authority sets its own requirements; some accept attorney certification directly, others require the full chain. (3) Always confirm with the receiving party which level of certification they need. Our firm has registered notarial services attorneys at both our Lat Phrao 95 (Bangkok) and Khon Kaen offices. This is general guidance; requirements and fees change — always verify with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Revenue Department, the Department of Business Development, or the receiving authority before proceeding.