Marriage registration in Thailand for both non-Thai couples and Thai National and foreigner couples is a straightforward process that can be completed quickly. The legal registration of a marriage can be done at any district office in Thailand on any working day between 8 am and 3 pm.
Required Documents and Proof of Status
To get married in Thailand, you will need to provide your passports as identification and proof of your single status. If you have been previously married and your marriage ended in divorce or death, you will need to present the original divorce certificate or death certificate. If you have never been married before, you will need to obtain a statutory statement of non-attachment, which should be notarized by your embassy in Bangkok. Your embassy may require additional evidence to support this statement.
Costs and Processing Fees
The statutory statement required by the Thai authorities for marriage registration typically costs 1,000 Thai Baht (approximately US$25) each. Your embassy will charge a fee for notarizing the statement, and the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs will make a nominal charge for registering it and issuing a certificate that allows you to legally marry anywhere in Thailand. Additionally, you will need to pay a fee for officially translating the document into Thai.
Pre-Marriage Planning and Asset Protection
It is important to give special attention to pre-marriage planning, particularly when it comes to protecting the assets of the foreigner. We highly recommend seeking the assistance of a licensed lawyer to draft a Thai prenuptial agreement. Prenuptial agreements should be prepared in both Thai and English languages. If, for example, the foreigner is a US citizen with assets in the USA and Thailand, the Thai prenuptial agreement should be drafted in a manner that is recognized and legally binding in both countries. It is advisable to prepare and sign the prenuptial agreement well in advance of the marriage date, as they are less likely to be contested when done so.
Conclusion
By following these guidelines and ensuring all necessary documentation is in order, couples can easily and legally register their marriage in Thailand. It is recommended to consult with relevant authorities, such as district offices and legal professionals, to obtain the most up-to-date information and guidance regarding marriage registration in Thailand.
