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Recently, theFrench Embassy in Thailand published a official press release relating to the tax declaration French expatriates in the country. This document provides essential details concerning a change in the form of the income certificate, necessary to meet the requirements of the Thai authorities. This approach aims to facilitate administrative procedures and guarantee compliance with the French regulations.
THE press release of the French Embassy in Thailand, published on November 26, informs the French expatriate community of a change in the form of the document called “income certificate”. This change is intended to align with the requirements of the Thai authorities while respecting French regulations. This article breaks down the terms of this new tax declaration as well as the implications for French nationals living in Thailand.
A document required by the Thai authorities
During the renewal visa, Thai immigration authorities require expatriates to submit a declaration indicating their monthly income in euros and baht. This obligation falls within the framework of Thai regulations on the right of residence, which imposes a minimum sum to be justified. The document issued by the embassy aims to prove that expatriates meet this financial requirement.
It is important to note that people who prove their income by other means, for example by blocking funds in a bank account, generally do not need to present this certificate. In this context, the embassy strives to meet the needs of expatriates by offering a document that meets Thai expectations while respecting the standards of French regulations.
New regulatory requirements
The change in the form of the certificate is motivated by the need to conform under the conditions defined by decree 2020-1368 of November 10, 2020, in particular with regard to article 4, which stipulates the need for personal appearance for the certificate request. This approach, although restrictive, aims to guarantee the authenticity of documents provided by French citizens in Thailand.
The embassy takes into account the difficulties that this may cause for certain expatriates, particularly due to sometimes long and costly travel. However, it emphasizes that it can only offer this service within the framework defined by French regulations, thus guaranteeing fair treatment for all those administered.
Consular initiatives put in place
Pending validation by the Thai authorities of honorary consuls in order to facilitate these procedures, the embassy has put in place consular tours regular in Phuket and Koh Samui. These actions aim to guarantee equitable access to consular services for all French citizens, regardless of their place of residence in Thailand. The tours are organized with a time interval respecting the validity of the income certificate.
It is recalled that honorary consuls carry out their activity on a voluntary basis. The costs associated with the procedures are strictly governed by the embassy and the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, in order to ensure transparency and fairness in the process.
Changes to documents
The new income certificate, which will take effect from January 1, 2025, will no longer contain the embassy letterhead. However, your visit to the embassy premises or to an honorary consul will be made official by a stamp provided for by article 2 of the aforementioned decree, as well as by the signature of a clearly identified authorized agent. This procedure will ensure that the document remains valid and complies with both Thai and French regulations.
In parallel with this transition, the embassy also kept Thai authorities informed of the changes made. She is proactive in listening and responding to any difficulties reported by the community, ensuring constant communication between expatriates and consular services.
For more information on consular procedures and services offered to expatriates, you can consult the following links: Gavroche Thailand, French Embassy, Public service, Senate, And All of Thailand.
- Date of press release: last November 26
- Shape change: Amended income certificate
- Object : Proof of income for visa renewal
- Minimum amount: Fixed by Thai authorities
- Alternatives: Certificate not required for other supporting documents (e.g.: blocking of funds)
- Compliance : French regulations and decree 2020-1368 respected
- Signature : Official stamp and identification of the agent required
- Consular tours: Organized in Phuket and Koh Samui
- Appointment : Double slots since January 1
- Date of application: New form from January 1, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions about Tax Filing in Thailand
What change was announced by the French Embassy regarding the income certificate? The French Embassy has informed the French community of a change in the form of the document designated “certificate of income”.
Why is the income certificate required by the Thai authorities? This document is requested when renewing your visa and is used to certify that you meet the income conditions set by the Thai authorities.
Who does not need to provide income certificate? People who prove their income through other means, such as blocking funds in a bank account, generally do not need to provide this certificate.
How does the embassy respond to compatriots’ request for an income certificate? The consular services prepare a document that meets both the requirements of the Thai authorities and French regulations.
What are the new requirements for obtaining the income certificate? According to Decree 2020-1368, the mandatory personal appearance of the person making the request is required.
Can honorary consuls issue the income certificate? The embassy organizes consular tours while awaiting the approval of honorary consuls in Phuket and Koh Samui.
What efforts are being made to respond to this new regulation? The embassy conducts regular consular tours to ensure access to all our citizens in Thailand.
What information is there on fees related to honorary consuls? Honorary consuls work on a voluntary basis and the fees charged for their services are strictly regulated.
What is the implementation date of the new income certificate? The change in form will be effective from January 1, 2025.
How will the new certificate differ from the old one? Although the new form no longer displays the embassy letterhead, it will still be validated by an official stamp and the signature of an authorized agent.