Registering a marriage in Thailand is a legally binding process that involves specific steps, documentation, and compliance with Thai family law. Whether you’re a Thai couple, or a foreigner marrying a Thai national—or even two foreigners marrying in Thailand—the Thai government provides a clear legal framework to formalize your union. Understanding how to navigate this process is essential to ensure your marriage is legally recognized both in Thailand and possibly in your home country.
This article outlines the legal requirements, procedures, and practical considerations for registering a marriage in Thailand.
Understanding Thai Marriage Law
Under the Thai Civil and Commercial Code, marriage is recognized only once it has been registered at the local District Office (Amphur or Khet). A religious or ceremonial wedding—such as a Buddhist or traditional Thai wedding—does not have any legal effect unless the marriage is formally registered with Thai civil authorities.
Who Can Register a Marriage in Thailand?
To register a marriage in Thailand, you must meet the following conditions:
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Both parties must be at least 17 years old (or the minimum legal age in their country, if higher).
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Both must be mentally competent and capable of giving consent.
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No blood relation (direct ascendants/descendants or siblings).
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Neither party is currently married to someone else.
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If either party has been previously married, proof of divorce or spouse’s death must be presented.
Steps to Register Your Marriage in Thailand
1. Prepare the Necessary Documents
The required documents depend on your nationality. There are slightly different procedures for:
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Two Thai nationals
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A Thai national marrying a foreigner
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Two foreigners marrying in Thailand
For Thai Citizens:
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National ID card
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House registration (Tabien Baan)
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In case of previous marriage: Divorce certificate or spouse’s death certificate
For Foreigners:
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Valid passport
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Affirmation of Freedom to Marry, issued by your embassy in Thailand (This document states that you are legally free to marry.)
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Translated affirmation (and divorce/death certificates if applicable) into Thai, certified by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Note: Some embassies may require an appointment or prior documentation, so it’s important to check your embassy’s specific procedure and timeframes.
2. Visit Your Embassy in Thailand
Foreigners must go to their respective embassy or consulate in Bangkok to obtain the Affirmation of Freedom to Marry. Requirements vary by country but generally include:
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Passport
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Evidence of marital status
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Application form
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Embassy fee
This document usually takes 1–3 business days to process.
3. Translate and Legalize Documents
After obtaining the affirmation, you must:
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Translate the affirmation into Thai (using a certified translator)
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Legalize the translation at the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Department of Consular Affairs)
This step confirms that the translation is accurate and the foreign document is recognized under Thai law.
4. Register the Marriage at the District Office (Amphur)
Once you have all documents in order, both parties must appear in person at a local District Office (Amphur or Khet) in Thailand.
At the Amphur, an officer will review the documents and process your marriage registration. The procedure typically includes:
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Signing marriage registration documents
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Possibly being interviewed
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Issuance of the marriage certificate (in Thai)
Tip: Choose an Amphur that is experienced in handling international marriages, such as those in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Phuket.
Important Notes
Language Assistance
Most Amphur staff speak limited English. If neither party speaks Thai fluently, it’s wise to bring a translator or hire a local legal firm specializing in family law or marriage registration.
Legal Recognition Abroad
If you are a foreigner and wish to have your Thai marriage recognized in your home country, you may need to:
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Translate the Thai marriage certificate into your native language
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Legalize the translated certificate at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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Register it with your country’s embassy or relevant authority back home
Requirements vary by country, so check with your local authorities.
Special Considerations for Different Couples
Thai–Foreigner Marriages
This is the most common international marriage scenario. While the process is more document-heavy for the foreign partner, the marriage is valid under Thai law once registered.
Foreigner–Foreigner Marriages
Two foreigners can legally marry in Thailand. However, both must go through the embassy and document legalization steps. It’s important to verify that your home countries will recognize the marriage.
LGBTQ+ Marriages
As of now, same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in Thailand. However, there has been growing legal and social movement toward same-sex partnership legislation, and this may change in the near future.
Cost of Marriage Registration
Registering a marriage in Thailand is generally free or involves only nominal administrative fees at the Amphur. However, costs may arise from:
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Embassy fees for the affirmation
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Translation services
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Legalization at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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Assistance from a lawyer or wedding agency (if used)
Benefits of Registering Your Marriage
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Legal recognition of your union under Thai law
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Rights to inheritance, custody, and spousal support
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Eligibility for spousal visas or dependent benefits
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Greater ease with legal processes such as buying property, hospital consent, or handling immigration matters
Conclusion
Registering your marriage in Thailand is a straightforward but detail-oriented process. It is not enough to simply have a traditional wedding ceremony—the legal recognition comes only through civil registration at a District Office. By following the correct procedures and preparing the necessary documents, couples can ensure that their union is fully recognized under Thai law.
Whether you’re a Thai national or a foreigner, registering your marriage grants you important legal rights and benefits. It’s a vital step toward building a secure and officially recognized partnership in Thailand and potentially abroad.