Getting Married in Thailand

Quick reference

Step-by-step requirements

Follow these steps in order. Most are completed weeks before travel; the in-country portion typically takes 1-3 days depending on the destination.

1. 1

   Each partner obtains an Affirmation of Freedom to Marry from their home embassy in Bangkok — this is the binding documentation requirement.

2. 2

   The affirmation must be translated into Thai by a certified translator and authenticated by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

3. 3

   Each partner presents a valid passport plus the authenticated affirmation at the local Amphur (district office) where the ceremony will be registered.

4. 4

   If divorced, an apostilled divorce decree (translated and authenticated) is required.

5. 5

   Two witnesses with valid passports must attend the civil registration at the Amphur.

Documents you'll need

• →Valid passport (6+ months remaining validity)
• →Affirmation of Freedom to Marry from home embassy in Bangkok
• →Thai translation of affirmation, authenticated by Thai MFA
• →Apostilled divorce decree (translated) if previously married

Timeline

Plan for 4-6 business days of paperwork in Bangkok before traveling to your wedding destination. The embassy issues the affirmation within 1-2 days; translation and MFA authentication takes 2-3 days. Couples typically hire a wedding coordinator in Bangkok to handle the entire process.

Cost breakdown

Total legal cost runs $200-$450 USD: home-embassy affirmation fee ($50), translation ($50-$100), MFA authentication ($30-$80), Amphur registration fee ($50-$100), and coordinator orchestration ($100-$300). Phuket and Koh Samui resort packages frequently include these.

Already married? Symbolic ceremony option

Most foreign couples choose a symbolic Buddhist blessing ceremony at a Thai temple or beachfront venue without legal registration. The blessing carries deep cultural significance and the visual experience is what most couples seek. Legal marriage happens at home.

Same-sex marriage recognition

Thailand's Marriage Equality Act was enacted in 2024 and same-sex marriage became legal in January 2025. The same civil requirements now apply to all couples.