The Apostille Convention entered into force for China on 7 November 2023 according to the HCCH status table. An apostille only works when both countries are in force, and the Convention enters into force for Thailand on 28 February 2027. Until then, Thai documents for China need legalisation at the Department of Consular Affairs and then at the Chinese Embassy or the relevant Chinese Consulate-General in Thailand. After that date, unless either side objects in the HCCH table, an apostille can replace those steps.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-29 · General information only, not legal advice for your specific case
Apostille status of China and Thailand
- China: in force since 7 November 2023 (HCCH table)
- Thailand: acceded 30 June 2026, in force 28 February 2027
- Until then: Thai documents for China use chain legalisation
- Hong Kong and Macao applied the Apostille before mainland China; recipients there may have different requirements
Sequence before 28 February 2027
1. Original document
An original Thai government document, or a private document signed before a Notarial Services Attorney.
2. Translation
Chinese recipients often require Chinese. Ask whether it must be translated in Thailand or by a licensed agency in China.
3. Department of Consular Affairs
Legalisation of the original and/or translation as the recipient requires.
4. Chinese Embassy or Consulate-General
Legalisation under the mission's appointment system and consular district.
From 28 February 2027
Once the Convention is in force for Thailand, the designated Thai authority can issue apostilles and the Chinese Embassy step is no longer needed, provided neither side has objected in the HCCH table. Re-check the status table close to when you will use the document.
Documents already legalised by the Chinese Embassy before that date keep their legalisation, but some recipients set a maximum document age. Ask the recipient.
Documents often sent to China
- Degrees and transcripts for study or work permits
- Police clearance certificates for work permits
- Marriage and birth certificates for family visas
- Company certificates and powers of attorney for business
Fees
Department of Consular Affairs: THB 200 per legalisation stamp or THB 400 per legalisation stamp (same-day). Chinese Embassy fees follow the embassy's published schedule, which can vary by document type and urgency; check the embassy's website.
Frequently asked questions
China is an Apostille member, so why the embassy step?
Because the issuing country must also be in force. For Thailand that is 28 February 2027.
Translate into Chinese in Thailand or in China?
It depends on the recipient. Some accept translations certified in Thailand; others want an agency in China. Ask before translating.
Can I file at a Chinese Consulate-General outside Bangkok?
Yes, within that consulate's district. Check the districts on the Chinese Embassy's website.
How long does it take?
It depends on Consular Affairs and Chinese Embassy queues; our team confirms after reviewing the documents.
What does your service cost?
It depends on documents, translation and steps. Please contact our team for a quotation.
Official sources
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