If you’re planning your dream wedding in Phuket and also want to make your marriage legally valid under Thai law, it’s entirely possible, but it requires a few formal steps. The process may sound a bit bureaucratic, but with proper planning (and the right support), it can be completed smoothly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:
1. Begin at Your Embassy in Bangkok
The first step is visiting your embassy or consulate in Bangkok to obtain an official document confirming your legal eligibility to marry. The name of this document varies by country: for example, Canadians receive a Marriage Affidavit, while Australians are issued a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI).
Tip: Appointments are required, and some embassies are booked weeks in advance, so it’s best to schedule early.
In most cases, the document is issued on the same day as your appointment. Fees and requirements differ by nationality, so be sure to check your embassy’s website for the most up-to-date information.
2. Have Your Documents Translated and Certified
Once you receive your affidavit, CNI, or equivalent document, it must be translated into Thai by a certified translator. This Thai version must then be officially certified for use with Thai authorities.
- Estimated cost: Around 5,000 THB, depending on the language and translation service.
- Time required: Allow at least 7 working days for translation and certification.
3. Legalize the Documents at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Next, the translated and certified documents must be submitted to the Legalization Division at the Department of Consular Affairs (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) in Bangkok. This step validates your documents for official use in Thailand.
Tip: Go early in the day, as processing queues can be long, especially during peak travel seasons.
4. Register at a Local District Office
Once your documents are legalized, you’re ready to register your marriage at a local District Office (Amphur or Khet). There are several in Phuket, and you’re free to choose the one most convenient for you.
- The office will review your paperwork and schedule an in-person interview.
- Wait times vary. In Phuket, you may get an appointment within a few days, though it can take up to a month during busy periods.
- You’ll receive a list of required documents and instructions, including the need for two witnesses (one for each partner).
5. Attend the Interview and Sign Your Thai Marriage Certificate
On your scheduled date, both of you must appear in person along with your two witnesses. After a brief interview with the Registrar, you’ll sign your Thai marriage certificate (known as the Tabien Somros), officially registering your marriage under Thai law.
6. Want to Register at Your Wedding Venue?
Prefer to have your legal ceremony during your beach wedding in Phuket rather than at a government office? It may be possible to arrange for a Registrar to come to your wedding venue, but it requires advance coordination and isn’t always available:
- Not all District Offices offer off-site registration.
- Additional fees and travel costs apply.
- Booking several weeks in advance is strongly advised.
At Phuket Romance, we can assist in checking Registrar availability and handling all logistics on your behalf.
Final Tips and Considerations
- Hire a local expert. Whether it’s a legal service provider or your wedding planner, working with someone who knows the process will save you time and hassle. Our team at Phuket Romance can support you through each step.
- Allow enough time. Ideally, arrive in Thailand at least 2 weeks before your wedding date if you plan to handle everything yourselves. If you’re on a tight schedule, professional assistance becomes even more valuable.
- Recognition in your home country. Once your marriage is registered in Thailand, you may need to take additional steps to have it legally recognized back home — including legalizing or apostilling your Thai marriage certificate.
- Equal marriage rights in Thailand. Thailand is now the third country in Asia and the first in ASEAN to legalize same-sex marriage. The same process described above applies to all couples, regardless of gender. Foreign same-sex couples or mixed couples (one Thai partner, one foreigner) can legally marry and register their marriage in Thailand.
