Sport
SAT Coordinates with Consular Department to Issue Second Passports for Thai Athletes
The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) is working with the Department of Consular Affairs to provide second passports to national athletes to mitigate visa processing delays.
According to a report by Matichon Online on August 22, 2026, the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) has initiated coordination with the Department of Consular Affairs to facilitate the issuance of a second passport for Thai athletes. This measure is intended to address ongoing challenges related to lengthy visa application queues that have impacted the travel schedules of national competitors.
For residents and travelers, this development highlights the administrative efforts being made to streamline international mobility for those with frequent travel requirements. While the initiative specifically targets athletes, it underscores the broader ongoing discussions regarding passport processing efficiency in Thailand.
Several details remain to be confirmed, including the specific eligibility criteria for athletes to qualify for a second passport and whether this arrangement will be extended to other professional groups facing similar visa-related constraints. Furthermore, it is not yet clear how this policy will interact with international visa regulations that may require specific passport validity periods. Those interested in the status of Thai travel documentation should monitor official announcements from the Department of Consular Affairs for updates on potential procedural changes.