Best Certified True Copies Lawyers in Thailand

1. About Certified True Copies Law in Thailand

Certified true copies, known in Thai as “สำเนาถูกต้อง” or “รับรองสำเนาถูกต้อง,” are copies of original documents that a qualified authority has verified as exact reproduce contains of the original. The attestor confirms that the copy matches the original document in every essential detail. This certification is commonly required for visa applications, school admissions, and official government filings in Thailand.

In Thailand, the authority to certify copies typically lies with licensed legal professionals such as notaries or lawyers, or with relevant issuing authorities when appropriate. The practice is guided by a framework of civil, commercial, and notarial law, with evolving rules that address digital records and cross-border documentation. The outcome is a defensible, official copy that authorities can accept as evidence of the original document’s accuracy.

Thailand's legal framework treats certified copies as legally credible evidence when issued by authorized personnel, and increasingly accepts electronic and digitally signed copies where allowed by law.

For practical purposes, a certified true copy helps you present a reliable duplicate of your original document to government agencies, banks, universities, and employers without exposing or risking the original document.

Two core sources govern this area: the civil and commercial law that applies to document authentication and notarial acts, and the regulations that empower notaries and legal professionals to certify copies. See official Thai laws portals for authoritative text and updates.

Official Thai laws portal (Krisdika) - Civil and Commercial Code, Notarial Acts, Electronic Transactions Act references

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Getting a certified true copy in Thailand can involve nuanced requirements depending on the document type and destination. A lawyer or notary helps ensure the copy will be accepted by the target authority and reduces the risk of rejection.

• What is a visa application involving certified copies? A foreign national applying for a long-term visa may need certified copies of birth certificates, police clearance, and educational transcripts, all attested by a lawyer or notary to meet immigration requirements.
• How do I prove identity for a bank loan with certified copies? Banks may require certified copies of passport pages, company documents, and authorization letters to verify identities and authorization before funding.
• When purchasing property as a foreigner in Thailand? You may need certified copies of passport, visa, and corporate documents for due diligence and land transfer filings with banks or authorities.
• Do I need certified copies for school enrollment or scholarships? Educational institutions often request certified copies of transcripts, degrees, and birth certificates to verify applicant identity and credentials.
• What if I am handling probate or inheritance matters? Certified copies of death certificates, wills, and estate documents may be required by courts or executors, necessitating legal certification to ensure validity.
• Are translations required for certified copies? In many cases translations are needed for foreign authorities; a lawyer can attest both the copy and the translation or guide you through the process.

3. Local Laws Overview

Thai law provides the structure for how copies are certified, by whom, and under what conditions they are accepted. The following laws are frequently cited in practice for certified true copies in Thailand.

• Civil and Commercial Code (พระราชบัญญัติลักษณะแพ่งและพาณิชย์ B.E. 2467)

The Civil and Commercial Code governs civil acts, contracts, and procedures related to document authentication. It is a foundational framework for certifying copies used in civil matters such as contracts, property transfers, and personal records. (Source: Krisdika - Thai laws portal)

• Notarial Services Act (พระราชบัญญัติบริการทนายความ B.E. 2523)

This act regulates notaries and their powers to perform notarial acts, including certifying copies and authenticating documents. It explains who may certify and the procedures to follow. (Source: Krisdika - Thai laws portal)

• Electronic Transactions Act (พระราชบัญญัติธุรกรรมทางอิเล็กทรอนิกส์ B.E. 2544)

The Electronic Transactions Act provides legal effect for electronic records and signatures, affecting how electronic certified copies are treated. It supports digital processes used in many government and business interactions. (Source: Krisdika - Thai laws portal)

Recent trends show growing acceptance of digital copies and e-signatures in Thailand, particularly in immigration, education, and banking contexts. Practitioners often reference these laws together with official government guidance when advising clients. For primary texts and updates, consult the official laws portal.

For authoritative text, you may review:

Krisdika - Official Thai Laws Portal

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is a certified true copy and how does it differ from a normal copy?

A certified true copy is a copy verified to be an exact reproduction of the original by an authorized person. A normal copy is not verified and may not be accepted for official purposes.

How do I request a certified copy from a lawyer in Thailand?

Contact a licensed lawyer or notary, provide the original document, and specify the copies you need. The attorney will compare the originals and affix a certification stamp and signature.

How much does it typically cost to certify a copy in Thailand?

Fees vary by document type and professional. Expect a range of roughly 200-1,000 THB per copy, plus any translation costs if required.

How long does it take to obtain a certified copy?

Same-day service is common for simple documents at a law office or notary, while complex or multi-document requests may take 1-3 days depending on queue and translation needs.

Do I need a lawyer or notary to certify copies?

Not always, but for foreign visa applications, real estate transactions, or cross-border matters, using a lawyer or notary reduces risk of rejection and ensures proper format.

What is the difference between a certified copy and an attested copy?

In Thailand, a certified copy is typically signed and stamped by an authorized attestor. An attested copy often refers to a more formal notarial act; terms are sometimes used interchangeably in practice.

Can I obtain an electronic certified copy?

Electronic copies can be certified or endorsed under the Electronic Transactions Act, depending on the authority accepting digital records. Always confirm with the receiving agency.

What documents should I bring to get a copy certified?

Bring the original document, your valid ID, and any required translations. If originals are in a foreign language, bring a certified translation if requested by the recipient.

Is there a time limit on how long a certified copy remains valid?

Validity depends on the recipient authority and the document type. Some agencies treat a copy as current if the original remains valid, while others require re-certification after changes to the original.

Do I need a translation for my certified copies?

Yes, many Thai authorities require translations for foreign parties, especially for immigration or educational purposes. A certified translator can accompany the certified copy.

What is the best practice if the original document is damaged or lost?

Always obtain a certified copy of the available original or replacement documents from the issuing authority before certifying. Authorities may accept replacements with proper certification.

Can a certified copy be used for visa applications or immigration outside Thailand?

Often yes, but each country’s immigration authority has its own rules. Check the destination country’s consulate guidance and ensure the copy is certified by an authorized Thai professional.

5. Additional Resources

These official sources provide the text of laws and guidance on notarial acts, certified copies, and electronic records in Thailand.

• Official Thai Laws Portal - พระราชบัญญัติลักษณะแพ่งและพาณิชย์, พระราชบัญญัติบริการทนายความ, พระราชบัญญัติธุรกรรมทางอิเล็กทรอนิกส์. https://www.krisdika.go.th
• Ministry of Justice (MOJ) - Government agency overseeing notarial services and civil procedure guidance. https://www.moj.go.th
• Thai Government Gazette and Legal Texts - Official publication of laws and amendments. https://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th

6. Next Steps

1. Identify the exact documents you need to certify and the accepting authority's requirements. Create a checklist of originals and required copies.
2. Gather the originals, plus any translations and required personal identification. Ensure originals are legible and complete.
3. Choose who will certify the copies-lawyer, notary, or issuing authority-based on the document type and destination.
4. Contact the chosen professional to confirm fees, turnaround time, and whether translations or digital copies are needed.
5. Schedule an appointment or visit the office with all documents. Bring both originals and copies for comparison.
6. Obtain the certified copies and check them for accuracy. If needed, request additional copies or translations for other agencies.
7. Keep the originals secure and store electronic copies in a secure, backed-up location if permitted by the recipient authority.