Bangkok: The Interior Ministry has issued a statement refuting claims circulating on social media that suggest the "White Thai Card" facilitates an easy pathway to Thai citizenship. The Ministry emphasized the stringent measures and procedures instituted by the Department of Provincial Administration for granting registration status.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Traisuree Traisaranakul, the Secretary to the Minister of Interior and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Interior, addressed concerns arising from a May 23, 2015, social media post. The post, which appeared on Chinese platforms, misleadingly suggested that the 'white card' or 'identity card for persons without registration status' can be used to easily acquire Thai nationality, alongside rights to purchase real estate and gain employment.
The Ministry's investigation revealed inaccuracies in the social media claims. The Department of Provincial Administration maintains a rigorous process for assessing registration rights for non-Thai nationals, ensuring compliance with specified protocols for all applicants.
Ms. Traisuree elaborated that the Ministry has been conducting surveys since 2005, following a Cabinet Resolution from January 18, 2005. This initiative aims to document minorities and ethnic groups who immigrated to Thailand before 1999 but were not included in previous surveys. The survey, concluding in 2011, resulted in the collection of facial photographs and fingerprints to prevent misuse of personal records.
The issuance of the identity card for individuals without registration status, known as the 'white card', serves as a document to access basic rights and potentially develop personal status and nationality, provided legal qualifications are met. Individuals holding a white card can apply for Thai nationality under specific conditions, such as proof of birth in Thailand or a minimum five-year residence certificate, followed by an official application process in adherence to legal criteria.
For further inquiries, the public is encouraged to reach out to the Call Center at 1548 or contact the Nationality Division at the Registration Administration Office, Department of Provincial Administration, via telephone numbers 0-2791-7317-20.