For beginners applying for a visa, a common question is: “Which documents do I need to translate?”

In fact, embassies do not require specific documents. It depends on each individual and what personal documents or proof they wish to submit.

• National ID cards do not need translation because they already contain English.

• Civil registry documents such as house registration, birth certificate, marriage certificate, or name-change certificate can be requested in English directly from the district office.

• If the documents are in Thai, they must be translated into English before submission. (Exception: Germany accepts Thai-language documents.)

• Some government documents are not issued in English, such as a business registration certificate or land title deed. In these cases, you can translate them yourself and sign the translation (but make sure it is accurate!).

• Employment documents such as a work certificate should also be in English.

• Invitation letters from sponsors can be submitted in English or in the language of the destination country.