What is the National Screening Mechanism?
The Royal Thai Government (RTG) launched the National Screening Mechanism (NSM) in September 2023. The NSM is a legal process created by the Royal Thai Government to identify individuals who may qualify for “Protected Person” status in Thailand.
The NSM is not part of the UNHCR process. UNHCR has no control or authority over the NSM process. UNHCR’s registration and Refugee Status Determination (RSD) processes are completely separate from the NSM. You can apply to both UNHCR and the NSM, and applying to the NSM does not affect your UNHCR status.
How and where to apply for the National Screening Mechanism?
You can file a request in-person to be a Protected Person at:
Sub-Division 4 of the Immigration Bureau
Bangkhen Immigration Detention Center
Police Club, Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, Talat Bang Khen Sub-district, Lak Si District, Bangkok 10210
The NSM Office is under the Thai Immigration Bureau.
All NSM applicants are subject to Thai Immigration laws. If you do not have a valid visa or legal stay in Thailand, you are at risk of arrest, including by applying for the NSM. UNHCR has been advised by the RTG that you will not be arrested when applying for the NSM if you are already on bail.
Where can I find more information about the NSM?
For additional information on the NSM, for additional information on the NSM, please visit the official Facebook page of Sub-Division 4 of the Immigration Bureau, which includes answers to frequently asked questions about the NSM.
You can also call Sub-Division 4 at 02-0241622 (for pre-screening stage) and 02-0245998 (for screening stage).
