Getting married in Thailand can be a memorable experience, but it’s important to understand that the legal process is separate from any traditional or symbolic ceremony. Whether you’re marrying a Thai citizen or another foreigner, there are clear legal steps to follow in order for the marriage to be officially recognized.
This guide outlines the key requirements, documents, and procedures involved in registering a marriage in Thailand. From embassy paperwork and certified translations to district office registration, this article will walk you through the full process to help ensure everything is done correctly and legally.
Who Can Get Married in Thailand?
Thailand welcomes both foreign couples and mixed-nationality couples (Thai and foreigner) to legally register their marriage, but certain conditions must be met under Thai law. Before starting the process, make sure you meet the following legal requirements:
- Minimum age: Both parties must be at least 17 years old. If either is under 20, parental consent may be required.
- Legal status: Neither person can be currently married to someone else. Divorce or death certificates must be shown if previously married.
- Mental capacity: Both individuals must be of sound mind and capable of giving full and free consent.
- Relationship status: Marriages between close blood relatives (siblings, for example) are not permitted.
- Same-sex marriage: Fully legal since 23 January 2025, following the passage of the Marriage Equality Act, amending civil code terms from “man and woman” to “individuals,” and granting full legal rights—including adoption—to same-sex couples.
📌 If both parties meet these conditions, they’re eligible to legally register a marriage in Thailand. The actual process begins with obtaining the right paperwork from your embassy.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Married in Thailand as a Foreigner
Registering a marriage in Thailand involves more than just a ceremony, especially for foreigners. The legal process is administrative in nature, and while relatively straightforward, it requires following each step carefully to ensure your marriage is recognized both in Thailand and abroad.
Step 1: Obtain an Affirmation of Freedom to Marry
Foreigners must first visit their home country’s embassy in Thailand to obtain a document called an Affirmation of Freedom to Marry. This states that you are legally free to marry.
- Schedule an appointment in advance (most embassies require it).
- Bring your passport and, if applicable, divorce decree or spouse’s death certificate.
- Some embassies also require a statutory declaration or affidavit signed in front of a consular officer.
- Fees range from 1,500 to 3,500 THB, depending on the embassy.
📌 Both partners must do this if both are foreigners. Thai citizens do not require this step.
Step 2: Translate the Affirmation into Thai
Once you’ve received the embassy-issued affirmation, it must be translated into Thai by a licensed translation service.
- Translation offices around Chaeng Watthana in Bangkok specialize in embassy/MFA documentation.
- Expect to pay around 300–1,000 THB depending on the service and urgency.
- Ask for a certified translation that includes both the original and Thai versions.
Step 3: Legalize the Documents at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)
Next, you must bring both the original English (or other language) document and the certified Thai translation to the Legalization Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangkok.
- Located at Chaeng Watthana Government Complex, Building B.
- Processing time:
- Standard: 2–3 business days
- Express: Same-day or next-day, with additional fee
- Fee: ~400 THB per document
- You can walk in or book an appointment via the MFA e-legalization portal.
📌 Bring photocopies of everything. Some offices require multiple sets.
Step 4: Register the Marriage at a Thai District Office (Amphur / Amphoe)
With all documents legalized, you’re ready to register your marriage at a Thai district office—called an Amphur.
- Both parties must be physically present.
- Bring:
- Your passports
- Legalized affirmation + Thai translation
- Your Thai partner’s ID card and house registration (Tabian Baan) (if applicable)
- Two witnesses (the office can provide them if needed)
- Some Amphurs allow walk-ins; others require appointments.
✅ Once registered, you will receive:
- A Thai-language marriage certificate
- Optionally, request an official English version for use abroad (not automatic—ask at the counter)
Popular Amphur Offices for Marriage Registration
While you can legally register your marriage at any district office (Amphur or Amphoe) in Thailand, some offices are more accustomed to working with foreign nationals and may offer a smoother experience, especially when it comes to handling translated documents, witness arrangements, or English communication.
Here are a few well-known options:
Bangkok
- Bang Rak District Office
Nicknamed the “Love District,” this is one of the most popular spots for both Thai and foreign couples to register their marriage. Staff are experienced in handling foreign documentation, and the office is known for symbolic gestures like heart-shaped certificates during Valentine’s Day.
- Pathum Wan District Office
Conveniently located in central Bangkok, this office also has experience processing foreign marriages and is a solid alternative if Bang Rak is fully booked.
- Suan Luang, Huai Khwang, or Chatuchak
These are lesser-known but still capable offices with flexible staff. Useful when central offices are busy.
Chiang Mai
- Mueang Chiang Mai District Office (Amphur Muang)
Common choice for expats marrying in the north. Staff are generally helpful, but some Thai language ability—or assistance—may be needed.
Phuket & Pattaya
- Mueang Phuket District Office / Pattaya City Hall
Both areas have a high number of foreign residents and wedding-related services. The local district offices are accustomed to foreign marriages and can often help guide couples through the process.
Smaller Provinces
- Most local Amphurs throughout Thailand can process foreign marriages, but:
- Staff may have limited experience with foreign documents
- English support may be minimal
- It’s a good idea to call in advance or bring a Thai-speaking helper
📌 Regardless of location, always call ahead to confirm their requirements, appointment policy, and whether witnesses or extra documents are needed. Some offices are stricter than others.
Do You Need a Lawyer or Wedding Planner?
While it’s entirely possible to handle the legal marriage process on your own, some couples—especially those short on time or unfamiliar with Thai bureaucracy—choose to hire a lawyer or wedding service provider to help manage the process.
These services are optional, but they can simplify things considerably if:
- You don’t speak Thai and want assistance with paperwork or communication
- You have limited time in Bangkok and need to move through the process quickly
- You want to combine the legal process with a symbolic wedding ceremony
- You’re unfamiliar with embassy procedures or document requirements
Common Services Offered:
- Booking embassy appointments and filling out forms
- Translating and certifying all required documents
- Submitting documents to the MFA and collecting them
- Arranging appointments with the Amphur
- Providing witnesses and legal guidance
- Coordinating symbolic ceremonies (temple, beach, Western-style, etc.)
- Providing extra copies of the marriage certificate in English or bilingual format
Cost:
Expect to pay anywhere from 10,000 to 30,000 THB depending on what’s included. Full-service wedding planners who also arrange the ceremony may charge significantly more, especially in locations like Phuket, Krabi, or Samui.
📌 If you’re comfortable navigating government offices and embassy procedures yourself, you can certainly save money by doing it independently. But for those who prefer convenience, legal assistance can offer peace of mind.
What About Religious or Symbolic Ceremonies?
Many couples who get legally married in Thailand also choose to have a traditional or symbolic ceremony,such as a Buddhist blessing, a beachside Western wedding, or a mixed cultural celebration. These ceremonies can be meaningful and memorable, but it’s important to understand that they are not legally binding unless accompanied by the official registration at the district office (Amphur).
Popular Types of Ceremonies in Thailand:
- Buddhist Ceremonies:
Held at temples and led by monks, these blessings involve traditional elements like water pouring (rod nam sang), white threads for unity, and offerings to the temple. Often requires early morning attendance and a donation.
- Western-Style Weddings:
Often held on the beach, in resorts, or at private villas. May include a Western-style celebrant, vows, rings, and a reception either symbolic or blended with Thai traditions.
- Hybrid Ceremonies:
Combine elements of both Thai and Western customs. Common among international couples marrying in Thailand.
Key Points to Remember:
- A symbolic or religious ceremony does not replace the legal marriage registration.
- You can do the legal paperwork before or after the ceremony—it’s up to you.
- Some couples choose to register their marriage quietly at the Amphur and hold the ceremony later with friends and family.
- Resorts or planners often help coordinate both elements when booking a destination wedding.
📌 If you’re having a symbolic ceremony only, and plan to register the marriage legally in your home country later, make sure you understand both countries’ legal requirements for recognition.
Post-Marriage: What Happens Next?
Once your marriage is officially registered at the district office, you’re legally married under Thai law. What happens next depends on your plans—especially if you’re staying in Thailand or need to use the marriage certificate in another country.
Visa Options for Foreign Spouses
If you married a Thai citizen and plan to stay long-term, you may now qualify for a Thai Marriage Visa (Non-Immigrant O). This visa allows for one-year extensions and can lead to permanent residency with the right conditions.
📌 See my full guide: Thailand Marriage Visa – Complete Guide
Name Change (Optional)
In Thailand, changing your surname after marriage is optional, not automatic.
- For Thai women: Can be done at the district office with the marriage certificate.
- For foreigners: Name change must be handled through your home country’s legal system or embassy, if allowed.
Using the Marriage Certificate Abroad
Planning to use your Thai marriage certificate for legal or immigration purposes in your home country?
- You may need to translate it into English (or your language) and then:
- Legalize it at the Thai MFA
- Authenticate it at your embassy, or apply for an apostille if your country is part of the Hague Convention
📌 Request extra certified copies (in both Thai and English) during registration or soon after—they’re much easier to get at the time.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Even though the legal marriage process in Thailand is fairly straightforward, many couples run into avoidable problems that can cause delays, frustration, or complications, especially if they’re on a tight travel schedule.
Here are the most common issues to watch out for:
❌ Not Booking Embassy or MFA Appointments in Advance
Many embassies and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs now require appointments, especially in Bangkok. Walk-ins may not be accepted, or you could face long delays.
❌ Incorrect or Incomplete Documents
Missing divorce papers, old passports, or non-translated documents are frequent issues. Always double-check what your embassy requires before your appointment.
❌ Assuming a Symbolic Ceremony Is Legally Binding
A monk blessing or beachfront wedding is beautiful, but unless you’ve registered your marriage at the Amphur, it’s not recognized under Thai law.
❌ Language Barriers or Misunderstandings at the Amphur
Some district offices have limited English-speaking staff. Bring a Thai-speaking friend or hire a local service provider to assist if needed.
❌ Forgetting to Get Extra Certified Copies
Once your marriage is registered, it’s wise to request several official copies (in Thai and English) in case you need them later for visas, name changes, or foreign registration.
❌ Trying to Do It All in One Day
The full process—embassy → translation → MFA → Amphur—takes at least 3 to 5 business days. Rushing often leads to missed steps or rejections.
📌 Planning ahead and keeping your paperwork organized will make the entire experience far more efficient and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few additional questions that come up often but aren’t always covered in official guides.
Can we get married in Thailand if we’re both tourists?
Yes. You don’t need a long-term visa to register your marriage in Thailand. A valid tourist visa or visa exemption stamp is sufficient, as long as your documents are in order.
Do we need to be in Thailand for a minimum amount of time before getting married?
There’s no official minimum stay, but the entire legal process typically takes 3 to 5 working days. You’ll need to account for embassy appointments, translation, legalization, and district office scheduling.
Can we register our marriage at a Thai embassy abroad?
No. Legal marriage registration under Thai law must take place at a district office (Amphur) within Thailand. Thai embassies abroad cannot register marriages.
Is it possible to have a private civil marriage without a ceremony?
Yes. The marriage registration at the Amphur is a purely civil process and requires no ceremony. Many couples do the legal registration quietly, with or without a later celebration.
Useful Resources & Related Guides
Whether you’re planning a simple registration or a full ceremony, these links can help you navigate the process with greater confidence:
Official Resources
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs Thailand – Legalization Division
- U.S. Embassy in Bangkok
- UK Embassy Thailand
- Australian Embassy in Thailand
- Bang Rak District Office (Facebook Page)
Related Guides from Thrive in Thailand
Marriage in Thailand is more than a ceremony; understanding the customs, legalities, and long-term implications is essential. These guides offer deeper insight:
✅ Dowry (Sin Sod) in Thailand: Understanding the Tradition
Unpack the cultural and financial significance of Thai dowry and how it fits into modern relationships.
🔗 https://thriveinthailand.com/thai-dowry-sin-sod-guide/
✅ Prenuptial Agreements in Thailand: What Expats Need to Know
Protect your assets with a legally valid prenuptial agreement under Thai law.
🔗 https://thriveinthailand.com/prenuptial-agreements-thailand-expats/
✅ Divorce & Custody in Thailand: A Guide for Foreigners
What to expect if things don’t work out—covering legal procedures, custody, and emotional realities.
🔗 https://thriveinthailand.com/divorce-custody-thailand-guide-foreigners/
✅ Thailand Marriage Visa: Complete Guide
Step-by-step process to secure a long-term visa through marriage to a Thai national.
🔗 https://thriveinthailand.com/thailand-marriage-visa/
💬 Have questions about the process or want to share your own marriage experience in Thailand? Drop a comment below; I’d love to hear your story.