Where Amphur Fits in Thailand’s Government Structure
Thailand’s territorial administration is broadly: Province (Changwat) → District (Amphoe/Amphur) → Subdistrict (Tambon) → Village (Muban). Each Amphur is the district arm of the central government (Ministry of Interior) led by a District Chief Officer (Nai Amphoe). Its district office is the public-facing place where residents complete key civil procedures.
What the Amphur/District Office Does
- Civil registration: record and issue certificates for births, marriages, divorces, and deaths.
- House registration (Tabien Baan) and address changes for residents domiciled in the district.
- Citizen ID and related registry updates; some nationality and name-change processes.
- Certain permits, administrative certifications, and public notices required by law.
What Is Amphur Called in Bangkok?
Bangkok is a special administrative area. Instead of Amphur/Tambon, it uses Khet (districts) and Khwaeng (subdistricts). The Khet Office serves the same everyday civil-registration role for Bangkok residents that an Amphur office does elsewhere in Thailand.
Amphur vs. Or Bor Tor (SAO) vs. Land Office
| Office | Thai name | Level & Role | Main Responsibilities | Who runs it |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amphur / Amphoe (District Office) | สำนักงานอำเภอ | State district administration (Ministry of Interior) | Civil registration (birth, marriage, divorce, death), house registration, ID updates, assorted state certifications | District Chief Officer (Nai Amphoe), centrally appointed |
| Or Bor Tor (SAO) | องค์การบริหารส่วนตำบล | Local self-government at Tambon level | Local services: small roads, waste, community projects, basic public works, local fees | Elected council and chief executive |
| Land Office | สำนักงานที่ดิน | Provincial/branch office under Department of Lands | Land-title issuance, ownership transfers, mortgages, cadastral maps, land information | Officials under the Department of Lands |
Specific Notes About Amphur
- The word “Amphur” is a common spelling; “Amphoe” is the official transliteration used on signs and documents.
- Each district typically has one District Office; large districts may have service points.
- You usually must visit the Amphur matching the address in your tabien baan for civil registry actions.
- Historically, some areas were “King Amphoe” (minor districts). Most have been upgraded and now operate as full Amphoe.
When to go to which office?
- Amphur/Amphoe: register a birth, marriage, divorce, or death; update house book or ID; obtain civil certificates.
- Or Bor Tor (SAO): ask about local utilities, small public works, local fees, community services or complaints.
- Land Office: transfer property, mortgage a property, change land ownership details, request official land-title copies.
- Bangkok residents: go to your Khet Office for civil registration; land matters still go to the Land Office.
FAQ
Is “Amphur” the same as “district”?
Yes. Amphur/Amphoe refers to a district—both the territory and its district office.
Can foreigners use Amphur services?
Yes, for services that involve Thai records (e.g., marriage registration with proper documents). Requirements vary by district and case.
Do Amphur offices issue land titles?
No. That is the Land Office’s job. The Amphur handles civil registration and state administrative services, not property titles.