On 18 February 2026, H.E. Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Minister of Foreign Affairs, paid a visit to the Phuket Temporary Passport Office at CentralFestival Phuket, and gave policy directions on People Diplomacy. He was welcomed by Ms. Kanita Sapphaisal, Chief of the Phuket Passport Office.

The Foreign Minister underscored the importance of constant development in providing consular services at provincial and regional levels, especially for the issuance of passports and the legalization of documents, with a view to ensuring easy access, timely and efficient services for Thai citizens, and facilitating public and private transactions in which legalized or certified documents are required. The Foreign Minister highlighted the vital role of the Chief of the Passport Office in coordinating closely with government agencies, the private sector, and the Consul-General and Honorary Consuls in Phuket on matters related to foreign affairs. He emphasized that this collaboration is essential to advancing sustainable tourism — Phuket’s leading economic sector — by attracting high-quality visitors, ensuring the safety of foreign visitors while fostering respect for local laws and cultural norms, supporting the development of infrastructure, and strengthening Thailand’s international image, all of which can contribute to the nation’s broader economic growth. In addition, the Foreign Minister conversed with clients of the office to listen to their recommendations for improvement of services in the mandate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides services through Passport Offices in 16 provinces in Thailand, namely Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pitsanulok, Nakonsawan, Khon Kaen, Ubonratchathani, Udonthani, Buriram, Nongkhai, Prachuapkirikhan, Surat Thani, Phuket, Songkhla, Nakhon Sri Thamarat, and Yala, and 9 offices in Bangkok and the vicinity, to ensure convenient services for Thai citizens, representing commitments and concrete actions in “People Diplomacy.” The Phuket Temporary Passport Office is located at CentralFestival Phuket, phase B, 3rd floor, and is open Monday - Friday (except holidays) during 09.00 - 17.00 hrs. (last queue at 16.30 hrs).