Digital Revolution in Thailand's Consular Affairs Department: Towards a Future of Innovation and Efficiency
The Foreign Affairs Consular Department in Thailand is currently undergoing a significant transformation and will transition to a fully digital operation within this year. This change includes the integration of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence into its processes. This evolution is visible, among other things, through the introduction of new icons and a series of improved electronic consular services.
An essential part of this digital transition is the implementation of the e-passport system. This system stores biometric data, such as facial images, fingerprints and iris scans, and complies with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. In addition, the e-Visa system, an online platform for visa applications, is currently active in 38 offices spread across 23 countries in Europe, North America and Asia. The plan is to expand this system to an additional 2024 offices in 11 countries in early 9, providing support for 15 additional languages.
The department has also introduced e-legalization, an electronic system for certifying documents. This allows users to track the status of their documents for international use, including the application of hologram stickers to prevent counterfeiting. In addition, there is e-help, an online system specially developed to assist and evacuate Thai citizens in situations of violence or disasters. The e-complaints system, intended for receiving various complaints online, is linked to the government's central complaints center for quick and efficient handling.
Furthermore, accessibility to the department has been improved through the launch of a Thai consular mobile application. This app provides a range of consular information and services, including an SOS emergency function, internet calling capabilities, automated question and answer sessions, and information about embassy locations.
The Consular Index is a comprehensive database of statistical data on global consular activities, which helps in the efficient allocation of budgets. The Overseas Voting Monitoring System (OVMS) ensures that embassies conduct elections in accordance with regulations, provides real-time updates on the status of elections and supports remote voting.
Finally, the department has introduced an e-Consular Handbook, which serves as a comprehensive knowledge resource for consular officers worldwide. This manual facilitates quick access to information and communication with head office.
About this blogger
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Known as Khun Peter (62), lives alternately in Apeldoorn and Pattaya. In a relationship with Kanchana for 14 years. Not yet retired, have my own company, something with insurance. Crazy about animals, especially dogs and music.
Enough hobbies, but unfortunately little time: writing for Thailandblog, fitness, health and nutrition, shooting sports, chatting with friends and some other oddities.
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Covid has brought a lot of misery and high costs, the only big advantage is that I can now apply for my multi-entrance O annual visa via the computer, fortunately now I no longer have to go to The Hague to bring my passport and papers and after two no return for days to pick up the passport, The Hague, almost no parking space at the consulate and a small basement where you usually waited like herrings in a barrel.
Gr. Arno