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National Screening Mechanism

The National Screening Mechanism is the a government process that decides whether a non-Thai person in Thailand qualifies as a “Protected Person.” Protected Persons are people who cannot safely return to their country because they fear persecution.

Can CAP help with the NSM?

CAP may be able to provide advice about the process and how it affects your situation in Thailand. Please contact us on [email protected] and clearly state which questions you have.

Frequently asked questions

If you have questions about the NSM, you should first check the frequently asked questions that were prepared by The Coalition for the Rights of Refugees and Stateless Persons with guidance from Sub-Division 4 of the Immigration Bureau. This document was last updated on 30 June 2024.

Further reading

10 July 2025 | East Asia Forum
Thailand’s refugee system puts publicity over protection
By Kate Coddington

October 2021 | Asylum Access
Refugee Rights Network in Thailand Joint Submission
UPR submission by Asia Pacific Refugee Rights Network, Asylum Access Thailand,
People Empowerment Foundation, Refugee Rights Litigation Project

27 September 2021 | Asia Pacific Refugee Rights Network
Thailand: National Screening Mechanism Assessment Report
A comprehensive assessment of the NSM and its components.

15 April 2021 | Refugee Law Initiative
Thailand’s National Screening Mechanism, refugee protection, and the human rights crisis in Myanmar
By Caroline Stover