How can I renew my UK passport while traveling in Thailand, and what are the address requirements?

Dec 12, 2022
2 years ago
Alex *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi, I'd like to renew my UK passport while travelling in Thailand. Is there any way I can do this?

Do you have to be a permanent resident to do this? One of the documents to submit with the renewal application is 'proof of address'. I'm guessing this is a permanent Thai address? I obviously don't have this as I am travelling, but was wondering if this was mandatory or if there was some other acceptable documentation?

Any guidance appreciated.

Thanks
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TLDR : Answer Summary
Renewing a UK passport while in Thailand can be challenging. It is advised to contact VFS for assistance, though be prepared for potential long wait times. You can also consider using an agency in London that offers courier services for passport renewals. Address proof is typically required, and a rental contract of your Thai accommodation may suffice. Registering with the British embassy in Thailand can also provide essential guidance.
Johnny **********
The Bkk based agent for this is Marc Jacob Marc's Sending Machine, honest & trustworthy, he's helped me renew mine & my daughter’s passports twice whilst I've lived here
Alex *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thanks everyone for your replies. Some options here to explore.
Paulie *********
This might help..
David *********
12 weeks wait is the last I heard.
John *********
We just applied and the address is your Thai address, we gave the rental contract.
Brian *********
I'm currently going through the process from pattaya. It's been 6 weeks already but I was warned at the beginning that it could take 4 months.
Ian ********
Best bet is use an agency in London. I did a couple of years ago and received by courier with 3 weeks. A little expensive but trouble free and very easy... Fill out online, upload photo, pay and done!

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David *********
Why don’t you call the British embassy in Thailand. But you should be registered with the British embassy in Thailand.
Graham ******
@David ********
Exactly, the information and requirements will be on their website
Myles *******
@Mark's ***************
might be able to help
Andy ********
My initial thought is that this will be very hard for you to do. There is the issueue with your address, which you have identified. There is also the time it takes to send your application to the UK, get the passport processed and then sent back to Thailand. This process is currently taking between 3 and 4 months.

If you have less than 6 months remaining on your passport this can cause issues applying for visas.
Lynnette *******
I thought you could only remain in country for period of passport validity.
Michael ********
Contact VFS in trendy building they handle this, but hear there is a long waiting time maybe someone who has done recently can enlighten you on times.
Mark ********
@Michael *******
current lead time 11 weeks and with xmas/new year plus uk renewals in way id expect longer!? VFS very helpful tho
Michael ********
@Mark *******
yes i heard 12 weeks minimum, i am going uk next week and will change mine there only takes a few hours
Mark ********
@Michael *******
did mine bkk october still waiting but in no rush! Im guessing mid jan😎🙏
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