A wedding in Thailand quick and simple to arrange. Most couples choose to marry on one of the many sandy white beaches, although an alternative option is more sensible during the May to October wet season.
Others choose a Buddhist temple for their marriage, or Buddhist monks to be present - perfectly legal and acceptable, even if you are not Buddhist, as long as the Civil Ceremony itself has been conducted with the Registrar.
The larger hotels all have their own wedding co-ordinators, so save your money and use them rather than a UK based agent. They tend to speak very good English, however if you find the accent to be a barrier, communicate by email.
The marriage of UK and Irish citizens duly registered in Thailand is legally binding under UK and Irish law.
This is also the case for citizens from most other countries.
In Thailand the legal registration of your marriage which will take place in the local registration office (Amphur) is the binding part of your marriage.
You do not require a wedding ceremony to be legally married in Thailand.
At the registration office, you will be required to have a translator present who speaks both English and Thai and the registration office will arrange the witnesses.
There are no residency requirements for getting married in Thailand, however the required paperwork will normally take at least 2 working days to complete before your marriage can be registered.
- A Valid Passport
- Affidavit of Freedom to Marry under Thai Law - This is an Affidavit notarized by your Embassy or Consulate stating that you are both free to marry and in effect they have no objection to you doing so. You will be required to visit your Embassy or Consulate in Bangkok to obtain this document and you will each require individual Affidavit.
- If you are divorced – a Decree Absolute
- If you are a widower – a Death certificate and previous Marriage Certificate.
- Proof of income may be required - This is stated on the affidavits if any income is declared. (Check with your Wedding Planner or Tour Operator).
If you get legally married in Thailand, you will receive two identical official wedding certificates, both written in Thai. A certified translation is normally sufficient should you need your marriage certificate for official purposes once you get home, so obtain a translated certificate before you leave Thailand.
This is an Affidavit notarized by your Embassy or Consulate stating that you are both free to marry and in effect they have no objection to you doing so. You will be required to visit your Embassy or Consulate in Bangkok to obtain this document and you will each require individual Affidavit.