Reviewed by ThaiLawOnline, a licensed Thai law firm practising in Thailand since 2006. Thai lawyer of record: Wichuda Atthamethakon, LL.M., Thai Bar Licence 3149/2556.
Last updated on
A short video from ThaiLawOnline on getting married in Thailand as a foreigner. Below the video you will find the key steps in writing, common questions and a link to our full, regularly updated guide.
Table of Contents
Key points
- A marriage is legally valid in Thailand only once it is registered at a district office (amphur or khet); a religious or traditional ceremony alone is not a legal marriage (Section 1457).
- The foreign spouse usually needs a statement of freedom to marry from their embassy, translated into Thai and legalised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Both spouses must be at least 18 years old, unless a court gives permission.
- Since the Marriage Equality Act, same-sex couples can register a marriage on the same terms.
- Consider a prenuptial agreement before registering: it must be made before or at the registration.
These points summarise the law as set out in our full guide, Marriage in Thailand, which is reviewed regularly. The video gives an overview; the written guide is the up to date reference.
About this video
| Title | Thailand Marriage |
| Channel | ThaiLawOnline (earlier channel) |
| Language | English |
| Published | 26 August 2010 |
| Watch on YouTube | youtube.com/watch?v=KEE9pC0V9ZU |
| Full written guide | Marriage in Thailand |
Frequently asked questions
Is a Buddhist wedding a legal marriage in Thailand?
No. Only a marriage registered at a district office is legally valid under Thai law. Many couples hold a ceremony and also register.
What documents does a foreigner need to marry in Thailand?
A passport and an embassy statement confirming freedom to marry, translated into Thai and legalised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Requirements vary slightly between embassies.
Can ThaiLawOnline handle the registration?
Yes. Our marriage registration service in Bangkok covers the appointment, interpreter and witnesses, with packages from 14,900 THB.
Get help from ThaiLawOnline
For help with the appointment, interpreter and witnesses, see our marriage registration service in Bangkok (packages from 14,900 THB). The full, regularly updated guide is Marriage in Thailand. Note: this video was recorded in 2010; the guide reflects the current law.
ThaiLawOnline has advised foreigners in Thailand since 2006, entirely online, in English, French and Thai. Book a consultation or write to info@thailawonline.com.
More ThaiLawOnline videos
- Last Will in Thailand
- Living Will in Thailand
- Divorce in Thailand
- Child Custody in Thailand
- Property Due Diligence in Thailand
- Usufruct in Thailand
- Superficies in Thailand
- All videos
Thai Law Updates, free by email
Plain-English updates on Thai law changes that affect foreigners: property, visas, marriage, business and wills. One short email a month from a firm practicing since 2006. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.