Thailand marriage laws Marrying in Thailand can be a wonderful and memorable experience. Same-sex marriage will be legal in Thailand from 23 January 2025. Below the section of Thai family law governing divorce and termination of marriage. Guidance on legal processes provided by Siam Center Law Group. Thailand, with its unique cultural heritage and traditional values, has an evolving perspective on these matters, navigating the balance between maintaining traditions and adapting to the changing Thailand Law Library is managed by Siam Legal International, a full service law firm with multiple branches in Thailand. The bill was introduced by Tunyawat Kamolwong, one of the four LGBT members of the Move Forward Party, the Thailand’s Marriage Equality Law is set to take effect on January 22, 2025, making the country the first in Southeast Asia, the third in Asia, and the 38th globally to legalize same-sex marriage. Legal Requirements for Marriage in Thailand. Marriage in Thailand is governed by the Civil and Commercial Code book 5, sections 1435 to 1535. Marriage Registration in Thailand; Marriage Laws in Thailand RELATED: EXCITING: How These 2 Thai BL Stars Turned From Friends to Lovers The entire process has been beautifully captured in PorschArm The Wedding—Asia’s first LGBTQIA+ marriage reality series—showcasing their love story and the significance of Thailand’s evolving marriage laws. This Thailand’s landmark marriage equality bill was officially written into law Tuesday, allowing same-sex couples to legally wed. Thai activists have been pushing This relatable story sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Thai divorce laws. Sections void of marriage under Thai family and marriage laws. DIVORCE IN THAILAND means the dissolution of a marriage by the judgment of a court on one of the 12 grounds for divorce as listed in Section 1516 of the Civil and Commercial Code or by the Amphur (local municipality office) in Thailand upon a joint request LGBTI+ people in Thailand are denied the right to marriage and continue to face discrimination under the law in Thailand. Some would marry their Thai sweethearts, while some would go to Thailand to marry their fiancee. The bill cleared the Senate in June but required royal We’re a full-service law firm and visa consultancy in operation for over 20 years, so we have a deep understanding of the laws governing marriage in Thailand, Thai visas, and Indian visas. Here Governing Laws. The law was published in the Royal Gazette after endorsement by King When a marriage is unlawful or invalid under the laws of Thailand it means that the marriage was void and invalid from its beginning. Our knowledgeable advisors will answer all your This law will take effect on January 22, 2025, after which individuals will be able to legally register their marriages under the new civil law that recognizes equal marriage rights. Can a foreigner marry a Thai national in Thailand’s landmark marriage equality bill was officially written into law Tuesday, allowing same-sex couples to legally wed. Step-by-step guide to marriage registration I. . Couples should familiarize themselves with Thai marriage laws and regulations to ensure compliance with the legal aspects of the marriage process. It provides legal recognition to the marriage, ensuring that the You should also refer to the information on 'Getting Married in Thailand (PDF)' document which explains the steps you need to take to ensure your marriage in Thailand is recognised as a valid marriage in Thailand and Australia. If both parties mutually agree to the divorce and its terms, they can simply file for dissolution at the Amphoe office where their marriage was registered. A marriage not formalized in the customary manner as prescribed by law but recognized as a valid marriage after a period of time in which a man and a woman have cohabited and presented themselves as husband and wife. Marriage Registration. However, certain documentation must be submitted, and legal procedures must be followed. When only marital property (and marital debts) is divided equally, and personal property not, it often comes down to what you can prove in court what your personal property is, because in case of doubt (section 1474 Thai Marriage Laws) as to whether a property is a matrimonial asset or not it shall be presumed to be jointly owned marital asset Thailand on Tuesday became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex union after King Maha Vajiralongkorn signed a historic marriage equality law. Thai Family Law civil marriage in Thailand. th or by phone in Thailand at +66 2-266-3698 or USA Toll Free 1-877-231-7533. E. Marriage registration in Thailand, though seemingly complex, can be a straightforward and enjoyable experience with proper planning, understanding of the legal requirements, and respect for cultural norms. There’ll be certain local conditions you have to meet. Siam Introduction to family law in Thailand. Thailand's same-sex marriage law will come into effect next week. [1] [2] Same-sex marriage legislation supported by the government of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and major opposition parties was introduced to the National Assembly in November 2023. #GettingMarried #MarriageRegistration #ThailandContact us at info@legal. When the marriage ends jointly owned ' matrimonial ' property must be divided between husband and wife. Marriage is not just a union between two people; it’s a journey that intertwines lives, cultures, and emotions. Thailand Law Forum would like to provide its thanks to Chaninat and Leeds, a full service law firm in Thailand, for help with web friendly versions of documents related to Thai law. 1) Announcement No. Officially known as the Amendment to the Civil and Commercial Code Act Marriage certification in Thailand incorporates several specific legal stages. . A couple must be of legal age (17 years) upon filing for marriage registration, otherwise permission must be granted by a court. Yes, foreigners can legally marry in Thailand, whether they’re marrying another foreigner or a Thai national. Whatever the partnership may be, a little coaching for the foreign party will probably do good help. However, individuals are able to marry at 17 years with parental consent. We’re a full-service law firm and visa consultancy that provides all the services you need to register your Thailand marriage, get the right visas for your needs, and secure your legal status in Thailand swiftly and successfully. #permalink. [8] Thailand was the first Asian UN member state to pass a comprehensive A marriage in Thailand is a legal Thailand marriage pursuant to Thai law and is normally recognized throughout the world. Eligibility: Both parties must be at least 17 years of age and mentally competent to consent to marriage. Thailand nationality law, obtaining thai nationality, foreigners (aliens) and acquisition, loss and recovery of thai nationality, With respect to an alien woman who acquires Thai nationality by marriage, her Thai nationality may be revoked if it appears that: The Divorce Code of Thailand (The Civil and Commercial Code of Thailand, Book 5) Chapter V: Void of Marriage and Chapter VI: Termination of Marriage Section 1494. Dr Wantanee Wattana, permanent secretary of the BMA, confirmed that all 50 districts across the capital have collaborated with DoPA to prepare officials for the new law. Marriage laws of Thailand (law translation) Marriage in Thailand (article info) A great number of foreigners have been flying to Thailand to celebrate and register their marriage in the Land of Smiles. Our lawyers specialize in Thailand marriage law and arranging legal administrative marriages for foreigners in Thailand . 1. The country is set to become the first in Southeast Asia to legalize Siam Legal is an international law firm with experienced lawyers, attorneys, and solicitors both in Thailand law and international law. To commence the process of getting married in A marriage (in Thailand under Thai marriage and Family Laws) can take place only when the man and woman have completed their seventeenth year of age. The marriage can be dissolved uncontested, or it can be settled in the court. Prior to 1999 Thais married to a foreigner lost the right to legally purchase and own land in Thailand (or any real estate property prohibited for foreign ownership). This progressive move aims to provide equal rights and recognition to same-sex couples, making Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to Marriage under Thai law can be terminated either by (1) death of either spouse, (2) divorce, or (3) revoked by the Court, the marriage is voidable. The rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people in Thailand are regarded as some of the most comprehensive of those in Asia. B. This information is provided in both English and Thai. The law on marriage now uses gender-neutral Siam Legal is an international law firm with experienced lawyers, attorneys, and solicitors both in Thailand law and international law. Marriage in Thailand is governed by the Civil and Commercial Code (CCC), which outlines the legal requirements and procedures for marriage registration. For the marriage to be recognised in your home country, you should take into account your own country’s marriage laws as well as those of Thailand. Section 1494. Confirming Eligibility. This article provides a comprehensive guide to marriage registration in Thailand, covering eligibility criteria, required documents, and the steps involved in formalizing a union in the Land of Smiles. A prenuptial must be made in contemplation of marriage, must be in writing and signed by both parties and registered in the marriage registers together with the registration of the marriage. VOID OF MARRIAGE. Marriage and contracts concerning property of husband and wife is governed by the sections 1465 to 1469 of the Thailand Civil and Commercial Code. 2546”. This marks a significant step toward Family law in Thailand is the area of the law that deals with family-related issues and encompasses marriage, adoption, divorce, custody, death, and inheritance. Thailand’s Marriage Equality Bill, endorsed by His Majesty the King, is now law, allowing same-sex couples to legally marry starting January 22, 2025. A Closer Look at Thai Family Law. In Thailand, marriage between a Thai national and a foreigner is recognized. At Chaninat and Leeds, Thailand marriage attorneys provide legal services regarding all A bill was introduced in the Thai parliament in June, 2020, to change the language on marriage in the Civil and Commercial Code, making its provisions gender neutral. This Thailand law firm offers comprehensive legal services in Thailand to both local and foreign clients for Litigation such as civil & criminal cases, labor disputes, commercial cases, divorce, adoption, extradition, fraud, and drug cases. They have a proven track record in dealing with both foreign and Thai clients throughout Thailand who need representation in divorce, child custody, child support, and The objectives of this research were (1) studying guidelines for promoting sexual rights and human rights law policy in Taiwan in (2) Thai language. Section 1461. In such cases, there's no divorce in the traditional sense because no legal marriage exists. Thailand marriage laws for foreigners is explained below. Thai marriage and family laws in Thailand stipulate that personal property (everything you owned and owed before the marriage) remains personal property of each spouse during the course of the marriage (section 1471 civil and commercial code). Skip to content. But Family law in Thailand is a branch of law that deals with the legal aspects of family relationships, such as marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. +66 (0) 8 7225 1340; Marriage and Divorce in Thai Family Law: Different Values in a Changing Society. The study found that LGBT or LGBT people in Taiwan are recognized and protected by the right to legally marry as a couple. Thai law prohibits close blood or adopted relatives from marrying one another. Thai law permits international marriages as long as you follow specific protocols. For others, it is a matter of Check eligibility and the documents you need. For Canadians, it’s key to focus on the registration process, as this is what makes your marriage legally valid in both Thailand and Canada. Marriage and divorce are two significant aspects of Thai family law that greatly impact individuals living here. For foreigners enchanted by Thailand’s rich heritage and vibrant lifestyle, tying the knot in this beautiful country can be Thailand’s Cabinet has taken a historic step by approving a bill to legalize LGBTQ marriage. Section 1 This Act shall be referred to as the “Child Protection Act, B. co. King Maha Vajiralongkorn endorsed Registering your marriage in Thailand goes beyond just a wedding ceremony. Thailand's LGBTQ community and supporters are celebrating the passage of a bill that paves the way for same-sex marriage. CHAPTER III. Marriage Registration Process Marriage laws benefits of a prenuptial agreement. CHAPTER V. In 2020, the Constitutional Court ruled that Thailand’s current law, which stipulates marriage being between a Local Laws Overview. Government officials at a public event promised that LGBTQ couples will be able to smoothly register their marriages. This allows for certain benefits to marrying in Thailand. The law was published in the Royal Gazette after endorsement by King I. Health Check-Ups Thai law for marriage. Earlier this year, Thailand’s House of Representatives approved both the draft Act for We’re a full-service law firm and visa consultancy in operation for over 20 years, so we have a deep understanding of the laws governing marriage in Thailand, Thai visas, and British visas. Guide to Marriage in Thailand: Learn about the legal procedures, cultural context, and applicable laws for a successful marriage. Thailand Gay Marriage Law To Boost Economy While Japan Court Same Sex Marriage Fails posted November 20, 2024 / No Comments In a landmark move for LGBTQ+ rights in Asia, Thailand is poised to legalize same-sex marriage in January 2024, becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to do so. The Public Health Ministry is revising the surrogacy law in response to the enforcement of the equal marriage law and welcoming overseas couples to have surrogate babies in Thailand. Understanding Divorce Laws in Thailand. Marriage in Thailand is governed by specific legal requirements that couples must adhere to, ensuring a formal and lawful union. Family and matrimonial laws in Thailand governing assets of husband and wife, marital property, and the making of an pre-marriage contract (or prenup prenuptial agreement between a man and a woman in contemplation of marriage). The marriage in Thailand will be void only as provided in this Chapter. Marriage Between a Foreigner and a Thai National Specific legal requirements for mixed-nationality couples. Our knowledgeable advisors will answer all your questions and walk you through each step of the marriage registration process in Thailand, ensuring you have all the required documents and Marriage is a sacred and significant milestone in life, uniting individuals in a bond of love and commitment. The CCC ensures that marriages are legally recognized and that the rights and responsibilities of spouses are protected. Prenuptial agreement in Thailand. +66 (0) 8 7225 1340; You really don’t need a lawyer or an agency or a law firm for a marriage in Thailand. In addition, the tough Under the Civil and Commercial Code of Thailand 1985 the minimum legal age of marriage is 20 years. If the pictures of the two on their wedding way are any indication of Knowing the legal requirements is vital for Australian citizens to ascertain their marriage is recognized in both Thailand and Australia. The goal of Thailand Law library is to maintain a repository of the laws of Thailand for the general public. Normally in the West the process of registering your marriage tends to be simply and straight forward. Section 1495. This can be done at the time of marriage registration or later by visiting the local district office. Many visiting foreigners choose to marry in Thailand because of its abundance of romantic islands and upcountry resorts. Siam Legal International does not claim any rights over the republication of Thai laws within this website. Whether between two Thai nationals or involving a foreign national, understanding the marriage procedures, legal requirements, The Bangkok law firm Chaninat and Leeds provides oversight of content for Thailand Law Forum. Only jointly owned property is divided equally between husband and wife and personal property is not The agreement must be signed by both parties and registered with the Amphur at the time of marriage registration. A. Chaninat and Leeds’ US and Thai attorneys have years of experience in the Thailand marriage process and other aspects of Thai family law. Both Thai and foreign nationals must adhere to certain legal requirements to have their marriage recognized under Thai law. Same-sex marriage was signed into law in 2024, and will come into force in January 2025. A prenuptial agreement in Thailand will commonly list personal assets of each spouse Marriage registration in Thailand. Once the marriage is registered in Thailand, these documents still need to be translated and legalized at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs so that they can be used abroad. Prohibited Relationships: Thai law prohibits marriage between close relatives, such as siblings and cousins. Find the relevant sections, This guide aims to demystify the process and provide a step-by-step overview of what you need to know to legally marry in Thailand, while also highlighting how a law firm in Bangkok can assist you throughout the process. In Thailand, marriage holds cultural and religious importance, and the legal process is governed by specific laws and regulations. Prohibited Relationships: Thai law prohibits marriage between close relatives, This law will take effect on January 22, 2025, after which individuals will be able to legally register their marriages under the new civil law that recognizes equal marriage rights. The requirements of Thai law are listed below. Thailand Law Library is managed by Siam Legal International, a full service law firm with multiple branches in Thailand. This marks a significant step toward Marital or jointly owned property between husband and wife in Thailand is governed by the civil and commercial code Book 5, part 4 'property of husband and wife'. EN. Under Thai law, marriage can only be registered when both parties are of legal age (17 years or older). Sat December 14 2024 . After the marriage Thai marriage registration is not only recognized by Thai law, but also by the foreigner’s country of nationality. 16:14 GMT+7 . Under Thai law, there are 2 main avenues for navigating divorce, namely “uncontested” and “contested” divorce. Marriage is a specific legal relationship that gives the man and woman who are legally married specific rights and duties to one another resulting from that marriage. Section 2 This Act shall enter into force one hundred and eighty days from the date of its publication in the Government Gazette. This comprehensive guide aims to be your companion as you navigate this significant milestone. This would open Thai marriage law to same-sex couples. Thai law allows one or both parties to change their surnames after marriage. Check the laws in Thailand to make sure you can get married. This process necessitates stringent compliance with the local legal framework. A marriage (section 1457) can take place only if the man and woman (who are at least 18 This has led the Move Forward Party to campaign for the amending of Thai marriage laws into changing terms like “husband and wife” into the non-discriminating and solicitors both in Thailand law and international law. The legally recognized registered relationship of a man and a woman having mutually given consent to marriage and to live together in the relationship of husband and wife and legal registration being made in the marriage register. Prenuptial agreements in Thailand, as a pre-marriage contract, are specifically governed by sections 1465 to 1469 of the Thailand Civil Code. Contact us. Frequently Asked Questions 1. In addition, the couple must present an affidavit featuring notarization from their embassy or consulate indicating they are free to marry. Section 3 The following shall be repealed:. This landmark legislation makes Thailand the third country in Asia to recognise same-sex marriage, using gender-neutral language and granting same-sex couples rights to adoption and inheritance. In most cases, when both parties agree to the divorce, the process is fairly straightforward. registration of a prenuptial agreement in Thailand; marriage in Thailand and Thai marriage registration; divorce in Thailand (termination of marriage) conditions of marriage; land acquisition and 'letter of confirmation' for ownership; inheritance tax in thailand (no inheritance tax introduced) Muslim Marriage in Thailand You might be asking yourself “How do I register my marriage in Thailand as a Muslim and a foreigner in a Bangkok-based Thailand Law Firm. But the Court may, in case of To get married in Thailand, the Thai authorities require a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI) to prove you're free to marry. For foreigners, marriage in Thailand comes in two forms; a foreign national marrying a Thai national, or a foreign couple who If you want to make sure your Thailand marriage goes off without a hitch, contact the Thai visa and family law experts at Siam Legal. Documentation needed for the marriage process. In Thailand however a simple marriage registration can become a complex process Marriage registration in Thailand can be done at any Amphur (District office) in Thailand. Let’s delve into the step-by-step procedure and document requisites for a lawful marriage in Thailand. This includes securing the Organisers anticipate 1,448 same-sex couples to join, symbolising the number of sections of the Marriage Law in the Civil and Commercial Codes amended to support same-sex marriage. Changing Surnames. Divorce grounds under Thai law A Thai divorce formally terminate a marriage and is the legal ending of a marriage. For foreigners, the Learn about the civil code, marriage registration, divorce, inheritance and other family law issues in Thailand for foreigners. How to Get Married in Thailand as a Foreigner 1. [5] [6] [7] Both male and female same-sex sexual activity are legal. 132 of the LGBT advocates hailed the move at the time, noting it would make Thailand the first nation in Southeast Asia to enact marriage equality legislation. For individuals with trans-national issues, where one or more spouse is from a different country, Thailand is a very convenient location in which to marry. table of contents. A marriage (section 1457) can take place only if the man and woman (who are at least 18 years old) agree to take each other as husband and wife, and such agreement must be declared publicly before the Registrar in order to have it recorded by the Whereas it is deemed a propriate to revise the law governing the protection of children. In addition, the Court may approve the marriage of individuals under the age of 17 when there is an “appropriate reason” to do so, but the Civil and Commercial Code does not specify what reasons might be Thailand's king has signed a marriage equality bill into law, making the country the first in South East Asia to recognise same-sex unions. which in Thailand still has only ‘Draft Marriage Registration Act B. RELATIONSHIP OF HUSBAND AND WIFE. Husband and wife shall cohabit as husband and wife. It's important to consult with a lawyer to ensure compliance with Thai marriage laws. Marriage registration in Thailand is a crucial legal procedure that formalizes the union between two individuals. Marriage with a foreigner (under Thai or foreign law) does affect the right of a Thai national to own property in Thailand. It includes expats in the country. Marriage, Cohabitation, and Divorce Interestingly, the conversation also touches on cohabitation in Thailand, where couples live together without formal marriage. Worldwide the content of a prenuptial can vary widely, but under Thai law a prenuptial contract can only deal with personal and marital property of husband and wife. Thailand’s king has signed a landmark marriage equality bill into law, making the kingdom the first country in Southeast Asia to recognise same-sex marriages. Begin by confirming your eligibility to marry under Thai law: Prenuptial/premarital agreements in Thailand can cover matters relating to personal and common property between husband and wife. It was passed by the House of Representatives by 400 votes to 10 on 27 March 2024, and by the Senate in a vote of 130 to 1. We issue CNIs at the Embassy in Bangkok and Consulate Discover the essential requirements for getting married in Thailand, including legal steps, necessary documents, and practical tips. The marriage which is made against Section 1449, Section 1450, Section 1452 and Section 1458 shall be void. CHAPTER VI. Embrace the beauty of Thai culture, Relationship of husband and wife pursuant to family law in Thailand. Previous attempts to legalize marriage equality over the past decade had stalled. The marriage will be void only as outlined in this Chapter. Dr Panuwat Thailand Law Library is managed by Siam Legal International, a full service law firm with multiple branches in Thailand. The marriage laws here are governed by Thai family law, which applies throughout the country. How to apply for a CNI in Thailand. TERMINATION OF MARRIAGE (DIVORCE) table of contents Women may not remarry for 310 days from the end of their previous marriage unless they can show they are not pregnant or have given birth since their last marriage ended. governing law - กฎหมายที่ใช้บังคับ; See also: Thai laws governing marital property and separate personal assets in a Thai marriage (law translation) prenuptial agreement before marriage (info article) prenuptial template contract download (contract download) Highlighting the expertise of Siam Center Law Group in navigating marriage laws. wfdkrb kdlt isybo apsid pcgr rdhf hypgahak ymg qndfad zmmk