Clarification on Social Media Campaign Promoting "White Thai Card" Citizenship

Strategic Insights -

The Ministry of Interior has addressed concerns about a social media campaign spreading misinformation about obtaining Thai citizenship and registration status through the "White Thai Card" system. The campaign claimed that individuals could easily apply for Thai nationality, register to buy real estate, and work in the country. However, an investigation revealed that the information presented on Chinese social media was inaccurate. The Ministry of Interior clarified that a strict process governs the consideration of granting registration rights to non-Thai nationals.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Ministry of Interior has a strict process for granting registration rights to non-Thai nationals, which involves specified steps and criteria.
  • The "White Thai Card" system is not a method for easily obtaining Thai citizenship, but rather an identity card for individuals without registration status.
  • To apply for Thai nationality, individuals must be born in Thailand with proof of birth or have a residence certificate for not less than 5 years.
  • The Ministry of Interior has conducted a survey and compiled a registry of minorities/ethnic groups who have immigrated to Thailand for a long time, following a Cabinet Resolution in 2005.
  • The registry includes facial photographs and fingerprints, stored in the population registration database to prevent false claims.
  • The White Card can be used as a document to present to officials and receive various basic rights, with the possibility of developing personal status and nationality depending on legal qualifications.
  • Individuals with a White Card can apply for Thai nationality after meeting the specified criteria and conditions.

Statistics:

  • The survey to compile the registry of minorities/ethnic groups began in 2005 and ended in 2011.
  • The Cabinet Resolution on managing the status and rights of individuals was approved on January 18, 2005.
  • The population registration database stores facial photographs and fingerprints of individuals with a White Card.
  • To apply for Thai nationality, individuals must meet the stricter criteria of being born in Thailand or having a 5-year residence certificate.

Sources:

  • Thai News Agency, May 24, 2025
  • Ms. Traisuree Traisaranakul, Secretary to the Minister of Interior and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Interior
  • Cabinet Resolution approved on January 18, 2005