A Thai Tax Identification Number (TIN) is a 13-digit number issued by the Revenue Department. If you need to file a Thai tax return, you need one. Here is exactly how to get it.
What Is a Thailand Tax ID Number?
The Thai TIN is a unique identifier used by the Revenue Department to track your tax filings and payments. It appears on all official tax documents your annual PIT return, withholding tax certificates (Bor Orr Jor 50), and any Revenue Department correspondence. Without one, you cannot file a return, and without a return, you cannot evidence your tax compliance for visa or banking purposes.
Who Needs One And Who Doesn't
You need a Thai TIN if you: are required to file a Thai PIT return (i.e. you are a tax resident with assessable income); receive employment income from a Thai company (your employer needs your TIN to process payroll withholding correctly); need to claim a VAT refund as a business; or open certain types of Thai financial accounts.
You do not need one if you are a short-stay tourist who never exceeds 180 days or generates Thai-assessable income.
When You Are Required to Register The 60-Day Rule
Individuals with assessable Thai-sourced income are legally required to apply for a TIN within 60 days of first receiving that income. For tax residents bringing in foreign income, the 60-day window typically begins once you meet the residency threshold (180 days in the calendar year) or when foreign funds are first remitted to Thailand whichever creates the assessable income event. Do not wait until filing season in March to obtain your TIN. If you are remitting income to Thailand as a tax resident, registering promptly is a compliance obligation, not just a practical step.
The Two Types of Thai Tax ID
Thai citizens use their 13-digit national ID number as their TIN they receive it automatically. Foreigners who are not Thai nationals receive a separate TIN issued directly by the Revenue Department. For 2026, newly issued TINs are 13 digits long. If you already have a TIN issued some years ago, you may have a 10-digit number these remain valid and do not need to be updated. The format difference causes occasional confusion at bank branches and with employers; if challenged, simply clarify that both formats are currently valid.
Where to Apply
You apply at the Revenue Department district office covering the area where you live in Thailand specifically, the district matching your registered residential address. Applications submitted to the wrong district office will be rejected. This is not a technicality that staff will overlook the system assigns your TIN to the district office matching your registered address, and an application at a different branch simply cannot be processed. Before going, confirm which district office covers your exact address by calling your intended office or asking your building manager.
In Bangkok, there are multiple district offices. Expats in Sukhumvit typically go to the Klongtoey or Wattana district office depending on their specific address. In Chiang Mai, there is one main city office that covers most expat areas.
What Documents to Bring
- Original passport (they will photocopy it at the office)
- Valid long-stay visa (tourist entries are typically not accepted bring your DTV, LTR, retirement visa, or Non-B)
- Proof of Thai address: rental contract, TM30 receipt, or utility bill in your name
- Some offices additionally request a letter of employment or evidence of assessable income bring anything that explains why you need a TIN
The Step-by-Step Process
- Find your district Revenue Department office. Search "Revenue Department office" + your district name, or ask your building management which office covers your address.
- Go in person with all documents. Most offices open at 8:30am. Arrive early queues can be long. Bring original documents and photocopies of all pages.
- Complete form L.P.10.1. This is the standard foreigner TIN application form. Staff at the office will provide it; fill in your personal details, address in Thailand, and reason for applying.
- Submit to the officer. The officer will review your documents and enter your details into the system. You may be asked to clarify your income situation or visa status.
- Receive your TIN card. In most cases the TIN is issued the same day and you receive a small card with your 13-digit number. In some offices there may be a short processing time.
How to Look Up or Verify a Thai TIN Online
The Revenue Department provides a TIN verification tool at rd.go.th. You can enter a TIN number to verify it is valid and matches the registered name. This is useful for employers needing to verify a contractor's TIN, or for individuals who have lost their TIN card and need to confirm their number.