BANGKOK, Thailand – The government is implementing stricter birth documentation procedures to prevent fraudulent claims to Thai nationality. More than 400 private hospitals nationwide will be required to submit birth certification forms electronically starting December 1, 2026. Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Persvivatana announced on November 7, 2026, that the Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Interior will replace paper submissions of birth certification Form T.R.1/1 with the Department of Provincial Administration’s electronic system.
The Department of Health Service Support will verify and register authorized hospital personnel responsible for submitting birth records. The Department of Provincial Administration will oversee the electronic platform. These measures aim to improve data accuracy, transparency, and traceability, and to reduce document forgery and fraudulent nationality claims.
The spokesperson stated that, under the direction of Minister of Public Health Pattana Promphat, authorities will investigate private healthcare facilities suspected of issuing false documents and will take legal action if violations are confirmed. For children born to foreign mothers and Thai fathers, healthcare facilities must certify birth information based on factual evidence and must not register births on behalf of families. If questions arise about paternity, a government-recognized institution may recommend DNA testing to support the registrar’s assessment. However, testing is not mandatory for all children or Thai-foreign families.
The spokesperson emphasized that birth certification, birth registration, and nationality determination are separate legal processes. Thai nationality is granted under applicable laws and is not automatically conferred through hospital submissions. She also urged private healthcare facilities to prepare their systems and register authorized personnel before December 1, in accordance with guidance from the DHSS and the Department of Provincial Administration. (NNT)
