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Browse our 4 legal questions about Marriage in Thailand and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
Marriage in Bangkok, Thailand, follows a combination of traditional Thai customs along with legal formalities. It is an institution highly regarded and legally binding. The key formalities include registering the marriage in the local district office called 'Amphur.' Even if a couple gets married in a traditional Buddhist ceremony, it isn't legally recognized until registered. For marriages involving non-Thai nationals, the process may require additional legal steps.
Understanding local matrimonial laws can be challenging for many people, especially expatriates who might not be familiar with Thai legislation. Situations like dispute over dowry ('Sin Sod'), prenuptial agreement drafting/reviewing, divorce procedure, child custody, property settlements, and more require legal assistance. A lawyer can also assist with the translation and legalizing of necessary documents, guaranteeing legality under Thai law.
Marriage in Bangkok is governed by the Thai Civil and Commercial Code. All marriages should be registered with the local district office. If one party is a foreigner, a declaration of freedom to marry and a translation of this document, approved by an embassy or consulate, are required. Thai law also recognizes prenuptial agreements, however, they need to be appropriately signed and registered at the time the marriage is registered. On matters of divorce, property is generally divided according to the couple's prenuptial agreement or divided equally if no such agreement exists.
1. Can a foreigner marry a Thai national in Bangkok?
Yes, foreigners can marry Thai nationals. However, they are required to get a certification of freedom to marry from their home embassy in Thailand.
2. How long is the process for marriage registration?
The process after all paperwork is completed and submitted can take up to 4-6 weeks to receive the Marriage Registration Certificate.
3. What are the requirements for a legal divorce in Bangkok?
In Bangkok, couples wishing to divorce must by mutual consent registered the divorce at the district office or the court if there are disagreements on child custody, alimony, or property splitting.
You may find useful resources at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand for the marriage process and the Family Legal Aid Division of the Lawyers Council of Thailand regarding family legal matters, including divorce.
If you need legal assistance in matters of marriage in Bangkok, your first step should be to find a reputable local law firm with expertise in family law. They can guide you through the intricacies of the legal process and ensure all your paperwork is prepared correctly. You should also gather all required documents, identify any potential areas of dispute, and discuss openly with your lawyer for the best outcome.
