how to marry and register your marriage in thailand

Marriage Registration in Thailand

Introduction to Thai Marriage Registration

Marriage registration in Thailand can vary based on your nationality and can be executed with or without a traditional Betrothal Ceremony, or even through a court process. The Betrothal Ceremony typically involves a promise to marry and is validated when the man presents a gift to the woman. If this agreement is broken, the affected party may seek damages.

Understanding Eligibility for Marriage

To be eligible for marriage in Thailand, couples must meet certain criteria:

  • Age Requirements: Both individuals must be at least 17 years old or of legal marriageable age as per their home country’s laws. Under special circumstances, the court may permit marriage before this age.
  • Mental Capacity: Neither party can be mentally incapacitated or incompetent.
  • Blood Relations: Individuals must not be closely related by blood, such as direct descendants, full or half siblings, or share adoptive parents.
  • Previous Marriages: Both parties should be single at the time of marriage. Widows or divorcees must wait 310 days from their spouse’s death or the termination of their previous marriage, with exceptions under certain conditions.
Documentation for Foreign Nationals

Foreigners planning to marry in Thailand need to prepare:

An affidavit from your embassy, the “Single Status Certificate”

This document, stating the individual is legally free to marry, is often required by foreign governments to register a marriage. In Thailand, for example, such an affidavit is needed for marriage registration. 

Required Documents
For Thai Nationals
  • Thai ID Card.
  • House Registration Book (Tabien Baan).
  • If the Thai person getting married has previously registered a marriage and is now divorced, or in the event of spousal death (the applicant is a widow or widower) proof must accompany the marriage application. This is done through a “Freedom To Marry” certificate which is obtained at the district office of the Thai person’s home town.
For Foreigners
  • Passport.
  • The previously mentioned Affidavit from your nation’s embassy showing you are allowed and free to marry.
  • Translated copies of the affidavit(s), as mentioned in the next section.
1. Obtain the Necessary Affidavit(s):

You’ll likely need an “Affirmation of Marital Status” (also known as an affidavit of freedom to marry) from your embassy or consulate in Thailand. This document confirms you are legally able to marry. 

2. Find a Certified Translator:

Seek out a translation agency specializing in legal documents, particularly those related to marriage registration in Thailand. Look for services that offer certified translations, which include an authorized translator’s signature and the company seal, as described on Sawadee Translations and www.visatranslationteam.com. 

3. Have the Affidavits Translated:

Provide the original affidavit(s) or a clear scan/photo to the translation agency. They will translate them into Thai.

4. Get the Translations Certified:

The translator should provide a certified translation, which includes a letter of translation accuracy and their signature and stamp.

5. Legalize the Translations:

Take the certified translations to the legalization division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand to have them officially validated.

6. Use the Legalized Translations for Registration:

The legalized translations of your affidavits will be required when you register your marriage at the district office (Amphur) in Thailand.

Procedures for Marriage Registration

Here are key steps to follow for registering a marriage in Thailand:

  • Declaration of Consent: A marriage occurs when both parties declare their consent to marry each other in front of a registrar.
  • Location Flexibility: Registration can be filed at any District Office, regardless of birthplace.
  • Female’s Birthplace Registration: If registered at the office in the female’s birthplace, her name and title may be altered accordingly.
  • Alternative Registration: If unable to register at an office, a request can be made to register the marriage under the supervision of a District Office.
  • Finalization: Marriage is official upon registration and issuance of a Marriage Registration Certificate.

Assistance with Marriage Registration

Closer Law offers expert guidance in legally registering your marriage in Thailand. Reach out to us for comprehensive support and advice. We’re available through live chat for immediate consultation.

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