In a country like Thailand, getting married is a very special event. It celebrates love and leaves a wonderful memory for a lifetime. It is an important occasion, so there are many steps that need to be taken to ensure that the legalities are all taken care of and your assets are protected.
The first step is to obtain an affirmation from the respective Embassies in Thailand that you are free to marry. This can be done online or in person with the embassy official.
Having an affirmation is essential as this will allow you to begin the registration process in Thailand. It also confirms that you have no legal impediments to your marriage which can help prevent any problems in the future.
Next, you will need to obtain a ‘letter of no impediment’ from your embassy in Bangkok which states that you are free to marry. This is usually completed in 2 or 3 days however it can take longer.
This is where the translation of your letter is important as this needs to be translated into Thai and certified by a Foreign Ministry translator before it can be used. Depending on your nationality this can take a few weeks or even months.
Once you have your no impediment letter and all of your other documentations in place the only thing left is to make an appointment to get married at the local Amphur Office or District Office. This is where you will be issued a marriage certificate and this can then be used to apply for a US or UK Visa or an Australian Spouse Visa for your Thai wife.
Amphur Offices or District Offices are located all over the country and can be accessed from anywhere in Thailand.
If you have a spouse who is a Thai citizen then they need to be present at the time of registration and they will need to bring their ID as well as their marriage certificate with them. You need to be in Thailand for at least 4 days before you can register your marriage so allow enough time.
You will also need to provide a copy of the pre-nuptial agreement that you have in place and this is best done with an attorney. It is essential that you have this in place before the marriage as it can protect your assets and prevent any disputes later on.
