10-year passports finally arrive in time for Thais to travel again

Long-promised passports that would be good for 10 years are finally coming – as soon as today.

The Consular Affairs Department this morning said it would be a few days for the details to be announced after sharp eyes noticed new passport fees, included travel documents good for a decade at THB1,500 (US$50), twice as long as the five-year versions that will still be available for THB1,000 (US$33). 

That was taken as evidence they could be available as soon as today. The Royal Thai Embassy in Washington D.C. wrote online that they would only be for travelers 20 and up.

The new passports were “supposed” to be ready nearly a year ago and come with a new look and enhanced security features. The new fees come as the government is looking to rework travel rules with more slack in April to facilitate post-pandemic travel.

Those who want rush service will…