What options do I have if my UK passport is full and I need to renew it in Thailand?

May 4, 2020
5 years ago
Pete **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Possible Passport Pickle.

I have a UK passport that is very nearly full - No blank pages, about 2 half pages and a few other stamp-sized gaps. (the passport expires in 2023). It has a multiple Entry Non-B work visa valid until July 22nd. Latest stamp goes up to June 16th.

I just found out the UK government are not accepting passport applications in Thailand due to CoVid.

Obviously for now I need to wait it out until the visa amnesty ends. But once this happens my options will be extremely limited to countries which require a full page and those which are actually open at that time.

Any ideas what my options might be?

UK is obviously the most expensive option, and I don't really want to visit the country with the worst managed covid outbreak in the world.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user is facing challenges with a nearly full UK passport while residing in Thailand during the Covid-19 pandemic, impacting their ability to obtain a new passport needed for travel. They are looking for suggestions on their options as the UK government is not processing passport applications in Thailand, raising concerns about limited travel possibilities.
Benjamin ******
I'm closing comments. You got some good advice Pete. The organization that is responsible for processing passports is VFS, contact them for more information. Good luck.
Tod *********
Did you email VFS Global and ask when they might actually re-open?
Bob *******
For what it's worth my UK Passport renewal was recieved at UK passport office on 23rd March. My passport expires 5th May. UK Embassy / consular service in Bangkok said they can do nothing to help me. On pressing them further they reluctantly checked 'their system' and told me that my application has not been processed yet! UK passport office contacted me and said 'do not contact us as we have reduced staff'. If you try to renew your UK passport at this time there is no telling when you will get your new passport...
Tod *********
Here's the Chiang Mai branch of VFS Global

UK Visa Application Centre

191 Siripanich Building,

6th Floor,

Huay Kaew Road,

Suthep, Mueng

Chiang Mai

Thailand

*****


Email:
***********************
Bill ********
Chaing Mai vfs open 8.30 - 2.30 Mon.to Fri.
Matt *******
Hey
@Tod ********
Unfortunately VFS Global have pretty much gone radio silent and the UK embassy isn't addressing the situation either at the minute, so it's just a waiting game.
Amaël ******
For what it's worth, a half page would be enough for entry/exit stamps in Vietnam, Malaysia, or Myanmar (e-visa only). But you'll have to hope the immigration officer is not a stickler.

Obviously, getting a new passport would be much better, if you are able to.
Ellie *******
@Amaël *****
only if those country resume visa exempt entry or tourist visas in time
James ********
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Tod *********
I don't even know if you CAN enter a country with NO blank pages left in your passport even if it's a country that Brits get into without needing to buy a visa before you go OR getting a visa on arrival sticker stuck in :/
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