The Hague Apostille Convention takes effect in Thailand on February 28, 2027. Until then, documents for Thailand still need embassy legalization. After that date, a Maryland apostille is all you need.
The apostille only confirms the signature and seal on your document. Each office in Thailand still sets its own rules about how recent the document must be and whether it needs a translation into Thai.
Vital records for Thailand
- Certified copySigned and sealed by a Maryland official
- Maryland Secretary of State16 Francis Street, Annapolis, MD 21401 · $5 per document
- Apostille attachedValid in every Hague Convention country
Notarized documents for Thailand
- Sign before a Maryland notaryThe notary's stamp names their county.
- Clerk of the Circuit Court (notary’s county)Authenticates the notary · about $1 per document
- Maryland Secretary of State16 Francis Street, Annapolis, MD 21401 · $5 per document
- Apostille attachedValid in every Hague Convention country
Cost for Thailand
| Option | Per document |
|---|---|
| Vital record, you mail it yourself | $5 |
| Any Maryland document, we file it | $50 |
| Notarized, we handle the clerk too | $50 + $1 |
| Federal (FBI check) | $57 |
Thailand: common questions
Is a Maryland apostille accepted in Thailand?
The Hague Apostille Convention takes effect in Thailand on February 28, 2027. Until then, documents for Thailand still need embassy legalization. After that date, a Maryland apostille is all you need.
Do I need a translation for Thailand?
Often. Official business in Thailand is conducted in Thai. If your document is in English, the receiving office may ask for a certified translation into Thai, usually made after the apostille is attached.
Can I apostille a birth certificate for Thailand myself?
Yes. A certified Maryland birth certificate goes straight to the Secretary of State with a $5 fee. Our free guide explains each step.
What if my document for Thailand is notarized?
Then the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the notary's county must authenticate it first. We handle both offices for you.