Prison Visiting Procedures in Thailand

A Practical Guide to Prison Visits in Thailand – Your Handbook for Meetings Behind Bars

Imagine you've traveled all the way to Thailand, hoping to see a loved one in need and offer them some warmth and support. Rest assured, the path, while arduous, is not insurmountable. As your attorney, I will guide you step by step.

Step 1: Distinguish between the “two types of prison visits” and don’t go to the wrong place!

In Thailand, there are two main types of prison visits, much like the difference between going to the outpatient department and the emergency department at a hospital. The procedures are completely different:

1. Regular prison visits - "A warm half hour in the cafeteria"

   • Location: Visiting areas inside each prison (usually over the phone through glass, or face-to-face across a table in the lobby).

   • Features: Short duration (about 20-30 minutes), noisy environment, but relatively simple to apply, it is the main way to maintain contact.

   • Keywords: Regular, short-term, standard process.

2. Special visit arranged by lawyers - "Deep conversation in the conference room"

   • Location: Usually in a more private, relaxed meeting room within the prison.

   • Features: Longer duration (up to an hour or more), quieter environment, ideal for discussing cases and conveying important information. This is the type of visit our law firm most often arranges for clients because it provides genuine communication value.

   • Keywords: It takes a long time, is private, and requires a lawyer to apply.

Step 2: Prepare the “three-piece prison visiting set”, none of them can be missing!

Either way, here are three things you need to get started:

1. Your original passport: This is the only international document that proves your identity. Make sure the visa stamp is clearly visible.

2. Identification information of the detained relative: Ideally, you should have his full name (as shown on his passport or ID card), date of birth, and most importantly, his prison ID number and the exact name of the prison he is being held in . Your lawyer will undoubtedly know this information.

3. Proof of relationship (very important!):

   • If married: original marriage certificate and notarized Thai translation.

   • If the couple is a direct relative such as father and son/mother and son: original birth certificate and notarized Thai translation, or household register and notarized translation.

   • Tip: It's best to complete the notarized Thai translation before arriving in Thailand, or find a qualified translation agency in Thailand. PSO Law Firm can also expedite the process to ensure the prison's approval.

Step 3: Let’s go! The practical process of regular prison visits

Let's say you're going on a routine visit by yourself:

1. Confirm Prison and Visiting Hours:

   • Visiting days and times may vary between prisons in Thailand! Be sure to check in advance with the prison's website or by phone . For example, Bangkok Special Prison is open Monday to Sunday, but the last name of the inmates visiting in the morning and afternoon may be different.

2. Arrive early and store your belongings:

   • It's recommended to arrive an hour before opening time. Strict security checks are in place at the prison entrance. Personal items such as cell phones, wallets, and bags are not permitted . There are usually paid lockers at the entrance. Only your "visiting kit" and a small amount of cash are required.

3. Queue up, get a number, and fill out the form:

   • At the visitor registration counter, collect and fill out the Visitor Form. If you cannot read Thai, you can politely ask the staff or volunteers who speak English for help.

4. Security check and waiting:

   • Go through the strict airport-like security check. Then enter the waiting area. When your number or your loved one's name is called, you can enter the visiting area.

5. The meeting begins:

   • Please follow the instructions and do not attempt to pass anything. Your conversation will be monitored, so avoid discussing sensitive details of the case. Talk about your family's encouragement and support, which is more important than anything else.

Step 4: What can a lawyer do for you? — Opening the “Green Channel”

If you feel that the above process is too complicated or requires more time for in-depth communication, then entrusting our lawyers to intervene is the best choice:

• Efficient handling of special visits: We submit formal applications to the prison warden in the name of our law firm, stating the reasons why a lengthy meeting is necessary (such as discussing case details or signing legal documents), and our success rate is very high.

• Free you from the pain of communication: From confirming the prison, preparing documents to communicating with the prison authorities, everything is handled by our Chinese and Thai trilingual team, so you don't have to struggle with language barriers.

• Accompanying prison visits: A lawyer can accompany you on prison visits and provide instant translation and legal explanations to you and your loved ones on site to ensure smooth and effective communication.

• Delivering important information: We can serve as a legal and safe communication bridge between you and your loved ones, delivering some important oral or written information.

Finally, here are some heartwarming lawyer advice:

• Dress appropriately: Dress conservatively and appropriately (avoid singlets, shorts, and slippers) as this shows respect to the prison authorities and your loved ones.

• Stay calm: The prison environment may make you feel uncomfortable, but please remain calm and patient and follow the instructions of the staff.

• Bring hope: Your presence alone is a shot in the arm. Encourage more, complain less, and tell him that there are people out there working hard for him.

Facing a loved one in prison in a foreign country is undoubtedly a nightmare. But please believe that professional help and the bond of family love are the most powerful light that can penetrate those walls.

PSO Accounting and Law Firm is committed to being a part of your light. Should you require any assistance, we are always here.