“The day I gained legal recognition in society was the most important turning point in my life.” — Ing-Ing, a nursing student
Warintip, or Ing-Ing, a 20-year-old second-year student at the Faculty of Nursing, is one of the young people who received support from the “Legal Status and Rights Development for Stateless Children and Youth Project” by World Vision Foundation of Thailand.
Today, she not only holds a legal status that has changed her own life, but she has also become a volunteer, passing on hope to other stateless children and youth facing similar challenges in Chiang Mai province.
A Life That Began Without Legal Identity
Although born and raised in Chiang Mai, Ing-Ing lived without legal status for over 19 years. She began her education without any form of identification. However, thanks to her determination and the government policy that allows all children to attend school, she was able to enrol.
When in Grade 8, she received a “G-code”, which made it easier to access the education system. Still, she was unable to access other basic rights she should have had, such as healthcare, travel, opening a bank account, or applying for scholarships. These barriers loomed large, threatening to derail her dream of becoming a nurse.
From “Just Wait” to Taking Action
Around the age of 15, Ing-Ing began to realise the limitations of her legal status and started seeking answers from teachers, government offices, and local networks. But the only response she received was, “Just wait”, with no explanation of how long that wait might be.
When she was accepted into nursing school, her dream was nearly within reach — but her “G-code” status meant she could not register to study or apply for a professional licence. She began contacting the district office and relevant agencies, clinging to hope. Even though she did not fully understand the legal processes, she never gave up.
A Turning Point: When Someone Saw and Believed in Her Potential
In January 2024, Ing-Ing connected with a network of NGOs working on legal status issues in Chiang Mai, including World Vision Foundation of Thailand. Their team provided guidance, explained legal procedures, and helped coordinate with the relevant authorities.
“World Vision Foundation of Thailand helped me on every step all the way — from paperwork and legal knowledge to encouraging me to grow and learn. I am truly grateful.”
From being a recipient of support, Ing-Ing gradually gained a deeper understanding of the process and eventually became a volunteer, joining outreach efforts to help other children and youth facing similar struggles.
“I used to be a stateless child. Now I want to volunteer to help others who are still on that journey. I was given a chance, and I want to pass that chance on to others.”
The Result of Her Determination
“When I found out that my request had been approved, I was overjoyed. It felt like someone had opened a door for me — giving me hope and a clearer picture of my future.”
After more than five years of effort, Ing-Ing’s name appeared in the Cabinet resolution announcement on 29 October 2024. She was granted legal status and received a “00 card”, identifying her as a person without Thai nationality.
Although this card is not equivalent to a national ID, it opens many new doors. She can now travel more freely, access the National Health Security Scheme, and open a bank account — for the first time in her life.
One Card That Changes Everything
“The 00 card is not just a 13-digit number. It represents my right to healthcare, education, and legal identity in society. It gives me life options.”
Gaining legal status has not only changed Ing-Ing’s life but has transformed her future and that of the next generation. Once she graduates and meets the legal requirements, she will be eligible to apply for Thai nationality. Most importantly, her future children will not have to endure the same statelessness she once faced.
Creating Sustainable Opportunities
Ing-Ing’s story is just one of many lives changed through the work of World Vision Foundation of Thailand, which is committed to developing legal status and fundamental rights for stateless children and youth — enabling them to live with dignity and access education, healthcare, and a better future.
Because everyone deserves the right to dream and the opportunity to make their dreams come true, World Vision Foundation of Thailand is working to build a more equitable future for every child, regardless of their birthplace and legal status.
“Do not give up. Even though it is tiring and complicated, there are kind-hearted people and organisations out there who are ready to help. As long as we keep going, there is always hope,” Ing-Ing said with a smile.
