Marriage Registration in Thailand
Marriage registration in Thailand is a legal process that grants official recognition to a marriage in Thailand. This process provides legal rights and protections to both partners, making it essential for those wishing to formalize their relationship according to Thai law.
Legal Recognition
Ensures the marriage is legally binding in Thailand and often recognized internationally.
Rights and Protections
Provides legal protection and financial rights, covering property, inheritance, and family matters.
Ease of Processing
Convenient for residents and non-residents, with clear steps to follow at local district offices (Amphur).
Who Can Apply For Marriage Registration?
-
Legal Age: Both individuals must be at least 17 years old or have parental consent if under 20.
-
Relationship Restrictions: Parties must not be blood relatives or adopted by the same adoptive parents.
-
Marital Status: Neither party should already be married, and both must be of sound mind and legally able to consent.
-
Waiting Period for Women: If the woman is divorced or widowed, she must wait at least 310 days from the termination of her previous marriage or the death of her partner before registering a new marriage. Exceptions to this waiting period include:
- If a child was born during this period.
- If she is remarrying the same partner.
- If a court order allows the marriage.
- If a Thai hospital certificate confirms she is not currently pregnant.
Marriage Registration Process
Documentation for Foreign Nationals
- A valid passport with entry visas
- Authenticated Affirmation of Freedom to Marry (original and certified translations). This can be obtained from your embassy.
- Death certificate or original divorce certificate from previous marriage (if applicable)
Documentation for Thai National
- ID card
- House registration
- Death certificate or original divorce certificate from previous marriage (if applicable)
The Steps to Register the Marriage
- The marriage will need to take place in front of two witnesses; one from each party.
- Once all documents are collected they will need to be brought to the Legalization Division, Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- On the date of the marriage these documents will then be brought to the local district office where both parties will give consent to marry in front of the registrar.
- Foreigners must report the marriage to their own consulate with a translated version of their Thai marriage certificate.
- If the couple have agreed to a prenuptial agreement, it should be presented at the registration.
The Importance of Prenups
Considering both a prenuptial agreement and a Non-O dependent visa alongside marriage registration provides a comprehensive approach to marital planning in Thailand. The marriage registration process not only establishes your marriage legally but also opens doors to benefits such as legal protections through prenuptial agreements and residence options through the Non-O dependent visa.
Contact us to learn more about marriage registration in Thailand, prenuptial agreements, and dependent visa applications. Our team is here to help make your transition to married life in Thailand as seamless as possible.
Our Marriage Registration Services
Document preparation and verification
Translation and certification requirements
Navigating the local district office process
Have any questions about the marriage process? Contact us for a free consultation
Our Legal Services
Debt Collection
Assist with compiling necessary documentation, such as contracts, payment records, and correspondence for debt collection. Advise on debt recovery processes and requirements. Provide support for filing court orders and working with bailiffs if needed.
Power of Attorney
Prepare general or specific powers of attorney, customized to clients’ needs. Advise on the scope and implications of POA to ensure clients select the right type. Provide official notarization and witness signatures to make the POA legally valid.
Legal Advisory
Basic to in depth legal consultation on various legal matters such as labor law, taxation, debt, wills, family law and contracts.
Legal Contracts
Create or review agreements, ensuring compliance and protecting clients’ interests. Adapt service, sale, purchase, or NDA templates to specific client requirements. Offer guidance on handling contract disputes, including mediation and arbitration options.
Marriage registration
Legal advice on marriage requirements. Assistance with affidavits, translations, and certifications. Guidance through local registration procedures. Obtain certified certificates and translations.
Wills and Estate Planning
Create wills tailored to clients’ asset distribution needs. Help clients plan and organize their estates for effective asset distribution. Guide executors through the probate process, offering legal support as needed.
Property Deeds and Land Titles
Assist with drafting, reviewing, and notarizing property transaction documents. Ensure land title authenticity and clarify property rights, including foreign ownership options. Guide clients through the Land Department registration process for buying, selling, or transferring property ownership.
Notary Public and apostille service
Authenticate documents like affidavits, contracts, and declarations for legal use. Verify and certify copies of documents for official purposes. Guide clients through the apostille or legalization process for international document recognition, including Ministry of Foreign Affairs certification.
Criminal and Civil Law
Experienced defense and advocacy in criminal and civil cases. Preparation and filing of essential case documents. Mediation and arbitration services. Support with bail applications and procedures.
Open Thai Bank Account
Requirements overview for personal and business accounts. Preparation and notarization for bank-required documents. Facilitation with paperwork and translation. Guidance for corporate account openings.