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What is the process for renewing a British passport while living in Chiang Mai?
British Passport RenewalVFS GlobalChiang Mai Expat ServicesPassport ProcessingRetirement in ThailandVisa and Immigration Services
May 22, 2025
a year ago
Caroline *******
ORIGINAL POSTERDoing my Due Dilligence on British Passports:
If I retire to Chiang Mai, what is the process for renewing my British Passport. I know I can do this online, but it's the process of then getting the new Passpport/returning the old one that I can't seem to find information on.
Thanks in advance.
If I retire to Chiang Mai, what is the process for renewing my British Passport. I know I can do this online, but it's the process of then getting the new Passpport/returning the old one that I can't seem to find information on.
Thanks in advance.
TLDR : Answer Summary
To renew a British passport while in Chiang Mai, Thailand, you must use VFS Global, as the process cannot be completed online from Thailand. Individuals recommend VFS for efficient service, noting that renewing a passport typically takes about 10-15 days. It's important to know that you will keep your old passport during the renewal process. There are also local services, such as Mark's Sending Machine, that can assist with the application process. Overall, while navigating the process from abroad may be complex, local resources are available for support.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
- Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
Pelle Eriksson★★★★★
Absolutely Bangkok's best service I highly...recently on Facebook
Luca G.★★★★★
I used this agency for my DTV Visa...recently on Google
Trusted Retirement Visa Agent
OVER 100,000 EXPATS SERVED
#1 VISA AGENT IN THAILAND
Leigh **********
You keep your old passport , vfs cut the corner when you receive your new passport, mine took 15 days It was posted on Wednesday , it was received in Liverpool on Friday , they took the payment that day
Caroline *******
ORIGINAL POSTERThanks everyone for your help..
I think I now understand the process. It may seem straightforward if you're in Chiang Mai, getting the correct process whilst I'm in the UK has taken me half a day. Even the UK Gov website doesn't make it that clear. 🙈
I think I now understand the process. It may seem straightforward if you're in Chiang Mai, getting the correct process whilst I'm in the UK has taken me half a day. Even the UK Gov website doesn't make it that clear. 🙈
David *******
You can not renew your British Passport online from Thailand.
You have to use VFS.
It's a free service (you only pay for your passport)
You have to use VFS.
It's a free service (you only pay for your passport)
Nigel ********
There's a british consultant in chang mai so it is really easy go see them
John **********
@Nigel *******
the consulate doesn't deal with passport renewals, nor does the embassy. It's been outsourced to VFS GlobalNigel ********
@John *********
Sorry! Youre right! I did it with Mark's Sending Machine and mistakenly I thought he dropped it off/collected it from an Embassy/Consulate.John **********
@Nigel *******
Mark provides a great service. I used him too. But he deals with the VFS Global office in Chiang MaiReply to
John **********
Reply
Caroline *******
ORIGINAL POSTER@Nigel *******
- Have you actually been into the B Consul in Chiang Mai? Do you have an email address that is actually live?I am in the UK researching these processes so can't go into the Consul in C Mai. My research indicates that whilst there maybe a B Consul there they don't have a website nor live email address. So that is no help to me currently. Thanks anyway.
Nigel ********
@Caroline ******
Sorry I did it with Mark's Sending Machine and mistakenly I thought he dropped it off/collected it from an Embassy/Consulate in Chiang Mai.Reply to
Nigel ********
Reply
John **********
VFS Global do the renewal of UK passports for Thailand. They have an office in Chiang Mai or you can use a service like
@Mark's ***************
, he's also in the Chiang Mai area and provides a great service, particularly for those not close to a VFS Global officeCaroline *******
ORIGINAL POSTER@John *********
- thank you so much for actually explaining this process. You are the first person to do so. I shall check them out.Reply to
Caroline *******
Reply
Adrian ******
I agree,vfs in chiang mai were very efficient. Got my new passport in 10 days from day of application.
Dave ********
Look at VFS global, excellent service
Caroline *******
ORIGINAL POSTER@Dave *******
- thank you for this.I did come across them during the research but I wasn't sure if they were kosher.
Are you saying that whilst you can apply to renew your British Passport online, you would have to collect it either by going to the UK yourself, or asking a family member to send it on to me.
Or are you saying that VFS Global manage the processing and delivery after I apply online?
Dave ********
@Caroline ******
you have to go to order it, then go back to collect 3-4 weeks later, all in all a very seamless service, just done mine in BKK 👍Reply to
Dave ********
Reply
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