🌏 For Foreigners: How to Get a Tabien Baan (ทะเบียนบ้าน) in Thailand — Step by Step

If you’re a foreigner living in Thailand, getting a Tabien Baan (house registration book) might seem confusing — but it’s important for things like:

• Applying for a Thai visa extension or retirement visa
• Opening a bank account
• Registering for health insurance
• Enrolling children in Thai schools
• Proving your residence for various official matters

This guide breaks down what a Tabien Baan is, how foreigners get one, and what steps you need to take.

🏠 What is a Tabien Baan?

The Tabien Baan (ทะเบียนบ้าน) is the official house registration document issued by the Thai government. It shows who is registered as living at a specific address.

There are two main types:

As a foreigner, you will get the Yellow Tabien Baan, which proves your legal residence at a Thai address.

👣 Step 1: Understand Your Residency Status

Before you apply for a Tabien Baan, you must have a legal residence status in Thailand, such as:

• Valid visa (Non-Immigrant, Retirement, Work permit, etc.)
• Valid address where you live or rent

You can only register a Tabien Baan at the district office (Amphur/Khet) where your residence is located.

🏢 Step 2: Have Proof of Your Residence Address

To register your residence and get a Tabien Baan, you need proof of your right to live at the address.

This can be:

• Rental contract or lease agreement (signed by the landlord)
• Letter from the landlord confirming you live there
• Proof of property ownership (if you own a condo or house)

Make sure your documents are up to date and clearly show your name and the address.

📝 Step 3: Go to the District Office (Amphur or Khet)

Visit the district office responsible for the area where you live. Bring these documents:

• Passport with valid visa
• Rental agreement or proof of residence
• Letter from landlord (if needed)
• Passport copies of the landlord or property owner (sometimes required)
• Photos or ID of yourself (passport photo usually sufficient)

🏷️ Step 4: Register Your Name in the Yellow Tabien Baan (Thor.Ror.13)

At the district office, request to be added to the Yellow Tabien Baan, which is for foreigners.

You’ll be recorded as a resident at the address.

Once registered, you will receive a copy or certificate proving your residence, which is important for official paperwork, including visa renewals.

🔄 Step 5: Keep Your Tabien Baan Updated

If you move to a new address in Thailand, you must register your new address within 24 hours.

Update your Tabien Baan at the district office with your new residence documents.

❌ What Foreigners Can’t Do with a Tabien Baan

• Foreigners cannot get a Blue Tabien Baan (reserved for Thai citizens only).
• You cannot own land in Thailand under your own name (except condo units, with restrictions).
• Tabien Baan does not grant citizenship or rights to vote.

✅ Summary: How to Get a Foreign Tabien Baan in Thailand

🌟 Extra Tips for Foreigners

• Landlords may need to cooperate to provide letters or contracts.
• Some districts are stricter than others — always check local requirements.
• Keep multiple copies of your Tabien Baan for visa or government appointments.
• If you’re renting, ensure your landlord’s documents are legitimate to avoid issues.

🏢 Need Help?

TabienBaan.com is your trusted guide to navigating the house registration process in Thailand.

Whether you’re applying for your first Yellow Tabien Baan or renewing your residence documents, we provide up-to-date guides, document templates, and tips to make the process smooth.