The express 1-day service is not currently available to foreign nationals, only Thais.
This means that technically it is no longer possible to do this entire process in one day, because you won't be able to go to your embassy, get the translations done, and receive your documents back the same day.
You will have to wait 2 working days to get all your paperwork back.
Please also bear in mind that some district offices (amphur) now have a marriage limit of 8 couples per day, and may require you to make an appointment in advance.
I strongly suggest reading through the latest comments from other readers to get their most recent experiences.
Okay, let's begin.
Whether you're a foreign national marrying a Thai national, or a foreign couple coming to Thailand to get married, you'll need to jump through three hoops before you can legally register your marriage.
The marriage will only be recognised under the law of your home country if it is valid under Thai law. In other words, simply having a ceremony in Thailand doesn't mean you are legally married.
It is still very possible to complete the process of getting the correct documentation together in one day, although without the express service at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, you will have to wait to get your finalised documents back.
Realistically, you will need one day for your embassy appointment, translations and MFA submission. Then you will get a slip that tells you when you can pick your documents up (from the MFA), which is usually within 2 days. You'll then need another day for the marriage registration.
Remember, if you are both foreign nationals, you will need to consider this process for two persons.
Should I Hire an Agent?
This post focusses on completing the process yourself without an agent. Personally, I prefer to handle things myself, having complete control over efficiency and organisation.
Also consider that having an agent doesn't eliminate the first step of the process (the trip to the embassy), and costs considerably more.
Quotes range from 8,000-25,000 Baht for the agent's fee. Do shop around for quotes. A good tip is to get your Thai partner to Google for an agent in Thai, as this will likely yield cheaper quotes.
Make sure you ask if the quote includes the embassy affirmation fee and the translations.
Step 1: Embassy: Freedom to Marry Affirmation & Passport Authentication
Affirmation of Freedom to Marry
You must first go to your embassy to obtain an Affirmation of Freedom to Marry in Thailand.
Your embassy will most likely require you to make an appointment to get your affirmation done. Some do, dome don't.
British nationals DO need to make an appointment to get an affirmation. The consular accepts appointments 08:00 – 11:00 on Monday – Friday.
The cost depends on the embassy, but will be around the 3,500 Baht mark. It costs 2,860 Thai Baht at the British embassy.
Yes, it's an expensive stamp.
Get the earliest appointment you can, closest to the opening time of the embassy, which should be 8am.
If your embassy has the affirmation form online, print it out from embassy website before you go, and fill in the relevant sections. For the British embassy, you will need to print the form.
You will need your passport, and if you've been married before, make sure you have documentation to prove that any previous marriages have been dissolved/terminated (an appropriate death certificate or divorce certificate).
This certificate, if not in English, must be accompanied by an English translation. Only the original or an official certified copy will be accepted – photocopies will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Passport Authentication
Due to a new requirement, as of 2017/18, you also need your passport certified by the embassy and then translated into Thai.
That means the photo page and the page above or below it, (depending on which country you are from).
Book an early appointment. If your embassy offers a walk-in service, get there at opening time.
NOTE: Also take a photocopy of your passport with you when you leave the house. You will need this for Step 3.
Step 2: Affirmation & Passport Translation
You now need the affirmation and your passport authentication translated into Thai.
This will cost between 300-600 Baht, per document, depending on where you go.
The officer at Chaeng Wattana (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) will stamp your affirmation and passport translation. You will then show this at the Amphur (district office) at your appointment to marry.
For the translation, you have two choices.
Because the majority of embassies are in and around Wireless Road, for most it will be easy to get a translation done in this area.
If you walk to the top of Wireless Road (back toward Pleon Chit BTS station) and up over the bridge onto the other side of the road, you'll be standing outside a language school called Language Express.
Go past the school and turn right. Along this side road you'll find a number of reputable translation services.
* Please note that the UK embassy is now located at the AIA Sathorn Tower, Floor 12 A 11/1 S Sathorn Rd, 10120.
Don't dilly dally: choose a translation centre quickly and make it clear you are on a deadline, otherwise you won't get to the MFA before lunchtime.
They should be able to do the translations within 1 hour. If they say they can't do it so quickly, let them know you can pay a little extra.
Alternatively, get in a taxi and go straight to Chaeng Wattana to the Department of Consular Affairs.
This might be preferable because the traffic will be dying down just after rush hour. This journey will cost around 150 Baht.
Do take the tollway (60 Baht) if the driver suggests it. This route is much quicker.
You can get your translations done at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, although it may cost more because the touts will be aware you have no choice but to pay to have your documents authenticated there. However, if option 1 doesn't work out, this option is a sure thing.
Immigration Office Address:
Tell the taxi you want to go to the “Chang Wattana pass-a-bort (or immigration) off-ice!”
Show him/her the address in Thai: สำนักงานหนังสือเดินทาง ถนนแจ้งวัฒนะ เขตหลักสี่
If you have a smartphone with a decent size screen, show him on this Google Map.
The Legalisation Division
Department of Consular Affairs
123 Chaeng Wattana Road,
Laksi District, Bangkok 10210
Tel : +66 (0) 2 575 1056–59, 0 2981 7171
Fax : +66 (0) 2 575 1054
(08:30 – 15:30 hrs)
Note that you can also get this process done at the new office at Klong Toey MRT station. The new office is in the Metro Mall area of the station:
Klong Toey MRT Station
ถนน พระรามที่ 4 คลองเตย
Bangkok, 10110
(08:30 – 15:30 hrs)
Here's a link to a Google Map.
Step 3: Thai Consular Affairs Authentication
If possible, I recommend doing your embassy visit – to get your freedom to marry affirmation and your passport verified (and your translations too) – and trip to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in one day.
If you can get an early appointment at your embassy, you should be able to make it to the MFA before lunchtime. Remember: the express 1-day service is only available if you get your documents in before 9.30am.
When you arrive at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, if you still need your documents translating, you can choose one of the services downstairs.
You will be approached as soon as you enter by touts for the translation services, so do a bit of bartering – starting at 300 Baht. Don't stress too much over 100 Baht or so, just get it done with the company offering the fastest service and move on.
Note: staff take lunch at 12pm. You'll have to wait an hour until they come back on duty.
Try to get a ticket and get in the queue before they go to lunch. If you make it through processing before lunch, then great. If not, no worries.
Once you have the translation, go to the 3rd floor: up the escalator, turn right and up the stairs.
Go to the desk straight ahead of you and give in your affirmation and its translation, passport translation and photocopy of your passport to the lady at the desk.
Now proceed through the white door over on the other side of the room; the lady will direct you.
Here you will get your documents checked by someone who looks very official. Once you get the okay, you will be asked to take a seat and wait to be called. Keep your eye on the queuing system, you don't want to miss your number.
Once called, you will be given a day to collect your authenticated documents and the option to have them posted to you. The standard pick-up/delivery time is 2 days.
When you get your documents back, you have completed the process. Keep everything safely together in an envelope. You will need all these documents to present to the Amphur office (government office) of your choice when you go to register your marriage after the ceremony.
Of course, you can register your marriage before the ceremony, it's up to you.
If you've finished early, you could go to a local district office and book an appointment to get married. You might be able to get an appointment for the next day.
What Marriage Documents to Take to the Registrar
When you go to register your marriage at the government office, you will need to take the following documents:
- Your passport – 2 copies
- Your visa – copy this too
- Your fiancee's ID card (for Thai nationals only) – 2 copies
- The Letter of Affirmation of Freedom to Marry (the original & the certified translation, plus copies of both)
- The MFA stamped translation of your passport
- Your fiancee's Tabien Baan (house log) (Thai nationals only) – 2 copies
- You will also need two witnesses. The rules may vary between district offices regarding who can be a witness. We used two Thai friends, but some offices may require one or two family members, and some may even offer a witness service for a fee.
Where to Marry – District Offices in Bangkok (Amphur)
In the old days you could pretty much roll up and get married on the spot. You'd grab two members of the public as witnesses and do it Vegas style.
Nowadays, some district offices (amphur) require you to make an appointment, while others will only accept two family members as witnesses, and some even go as far as to send your documents back to the MFA for verification.
If you are marrying a Thai national, the easiest place to get married is most likely going to be the district office in your partner's home town.
This is because, chances are, someone at the local amphur knows your partner, or a member of her family, or perhaps a close friend. There is usually some connection that makes for an easier ride. Being a local means others are generally more willing to help.
However, if you're in Bangkok, then you might as well get the job done there.
The best place to check for varying experiences with at district offices is in the comments section below, but here's a few you might try:
- Lak Si: Marries 8 couples a day. Make an appointment in advance.
- Bangrak: Requires two family members as witnesses.
- Huay Kwang: Accepts friends a witnesses.
*Where possible call the district office first and ask what their requirements are.
Native Translation
You may also wish to obtain a sworn translation of your marriage certificate into your native language so that it can be used as a legal document back home. You may also require this translation for visa purposes.
A note for British nationals: You no longer need to file your marriage certificate back in the UK. They did away with that requirement a few years ago.
Congratulations! I wish you a long, happy, marriage.
One Last Thing!
If you're planning on getting married in Thailand, then you'll want everything to go as smoothly as possible.
That means making sure you have travel insurance with adequate coverage, just in case the something doesn't quite go to plan. Maybe you lose your case, miss your flight, break a finger, lose your wallet.
Don't chance it.
Click here to read up on the two companies I recommend for solid insurance that covers a broad range of eventualities.
And if you want the best prices on hotels in Bangkok, Samui, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai and more, check out this page.
More Tips for Married Life
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Last Updated on
Ben says
Mar 20, 2022 at 1:45 pm
Peter says
Mar 12, 2022 at 3:24 pm
N. Alam says
I'm planning to get my documents authenticated at the new office at Klong Toey MRT station, which is near the Metro Mall area of the
Klong Toey MRT Station.
Is it possible to get translation and authentication at this office on the same day? Any other helpful info will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Alam.
Feb 26, 2022 at 10:25 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 27, 2022 at 5:25 am
N. Alam says
In the affirmation form, are they very strict on the occupation and income source? As I'm not a work permit holder and have income from outside Thailand. Will they ask for a source of income?
Feb 27, 2022 at 11:16 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 28, 2022 at 4:59 am
N. Alam says
I'll update you, once it done. Once again, thanks very much for your time and effort for writing back!
Good day Nad speak soon!
Feb 28, 2022 at 5:36 am
YHW says
Any recommendations for District Offices in Bangkok that can help with witnesses? We don't really have friends in BKK.
Thank you :)
Feb 19, 2022 at 11:00 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 21, 2022 at 9:42 pm
YHW says
Feb 28, 2022 at 12:54 pm
Richard says
She has a tourist visa interview for next month. I think it will be in Chiang Mai.
Can anyone offer any pointers on how to successfully get through the interview and maximize the chances of actually getting the Visa.
Feb 08, 2022 at 8:44 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 08, 2022 at 4:59 pm
Richard says
Feb 08, 2022 at 6:59 pm
alison house says
Feb 01, 2022 at 9:41 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 04, 2022 at 5:14 pm
alison house says
Feb 04, 2022 at 7:29 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 04, 2022 at 7:55 pm
Kevin Morgenstern says
I see youve quoted 4500-5000 thb agent fee. Could you recommend the name of that agency? We are getting quotes 16,000-19,000 thb.
Any help would be appreciated. Thank you
Kevin
Feb 01, 2022 at 11:34 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 01, 2022 at 5:10 pm
Ryan says
So do I need to get married before I get that certificate?
Jan 31, 2022 at 10:52 am
Arlene says
Also, our status is that he is single, with no previous marriage while I am divorced from Canada. Per our respective embassies there in Thailand we are working on getting our documents apostilled by the foreign affair offices in our home country and then bringing them to our embassies in Thailand to be validated...
It seems that ours might be a harder process than if we were both single.. do you recommend I use an agent for this? This is our last hope so I don't want to make any critical mistakes.. Thanks in advance!
Jan 30, 2022 at 3:12 pm
Darren says
Great info here….thanks very much.
Quick question about registering in Bangkok please. My fiancée has checked the requirements with Suan Luang office and they tell her that it will take 2-3 months to get registered. This seems ridiculous to me.
From your comments it seems that Bang Rak may be a better bet?
I have the CNI from Aus embassy and we will do the translation and Chaengwattana stuff next week before then going to the district office.
Thanks for your help.
Jan 22, 2022 at 10:46 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 26, 2022 at 5:23 pm
Ben says
Mar 20, 2022 at 1:40 pm
Keith Rouleau says
Jan 12, 2022 at 8:02 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 12, 2022 at 8:05 pm
Angelo says
Thanks
Jan 01, 2022 at 7:22 am
michelle ramos says
Thank you.
Dec 22, 2021 at 10:14 am
Mr JM says
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/information-for-british-nationals-intending-to-marry-in-thailand/thailand-information-on-how-to-get-married
Dec 17, 2021 at 9:59 pm
ChiChi says
Dec 16, 2021 at 11:21 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 17, 2021 at 6:21 pm
Loida Kosunen says
Can we get married legally in Thailand?
What are the necessary documents we need.
Jan 12, 2022 at 6:31 pm
XiXi says
Dec 03, 2021 at 9:02 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 03, 2021 at 9:05 pm
XiXi says
Dec 03, 2021 at 9:16 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 03, 2021 at 9:24 pm
XiXi says
Dec 03, 2021 at 10:03 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 03, 2021 at 10:18 pm
XiXi says
Dec 03, 2021 at 10:30 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 03, 2021 at 10:38 pm
XiXi says
Dec 03, 2021 at 10:52 pm
John says
My fiance is from China I we want to go to Thailand for the same reason.
How was your experience? Did you get it?
Jan 28, 2022 at 4:07 pm
KM says
I had 2 questions, if you could help:
1. How much does the authentication of docs at the MFA cost?
2. Do you know which amphurs in Chiang Mai are okay with non-family witnesses? My partner and I are both foreigners.
Thanks for this guide, so helpful.
Nov 22, 2021 at 2:55 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 24, 2021 at 7:03 pm
Will says
I appreciate all your helpful advice above, and I am NOT usually a DIY'er kind of guy, particularly when I'm navigating a foreign country and language.
Do you ever take clients like me on - to hustle us through a day or two of paperwork (for a fee, of course)? Or do you have a recommendation for a trustworthy agent?
Thank you for your time and help, Will
Nov 20, 2021 at 7:01 am
RECHEL BARTOLO says
Nov 15, 2021 at 3:38 pm
John says
Nov 05, 2021 at 11:24 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 06, 2021 at 12:35 am
Lele says
Thank you in advance
Sep 23, 2021 at 6:56 pm
Kenzie says
Oct 07, 2021 at 1:12 pm
J&L says
Nov 10, 2021 at 6:33 pm
Graham says
Aug 25, 2021 at 10:46 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 25, 2021 at 11:18 pm
Graham says
Sep 10, 2021 at 11:57 am
TheThailandLife says
Sep 13, 2021 at 3:27 pm
Graham says
Nov 15, 2021 at 9:24 pm
diamond says
Oct 07, 2021 at 4:37 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 07, 2021 at 6:01 pm
Jay says
Jul 30, 2021 at 4:55 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 30, 2021 at 5:27 pm
Crystal says
The reason I ask is because my fiance and I would like to go to Phuket for 2 weeks, and get married there, and not actually go to Bangkok at all.
I've looked and it seems like there is an embassy office there, for both of us because we are from different countries, but not an office for the Ministry of Foreign affairs.
Is it possible to send the documents to the Ministry of Foreign affairs by fax from the embassy or by postal service? We don't really need it to be done in 2 or 3 days.
Jul 10, 2021 at 1:27 am
John says
Would it be possible for me to hand in the documents to the MFA and then fly to another province and have the authenticated documents sent to me where I'm staying there. I'm assuming that the MFA won't hold my passport while they authenticate the documents.
Thanks
Jun 02, 2021 at 4:29 pm
Paul says
May 04, 2021 at 9:42 pm
Berns says
May 23, 2021 at 2:07 am
Paul says
Jun 03, 2021 at 12:29 am
Joe says
Unbelievable!
Apr 26, 2021 at 3:25 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 26, 2021 at 4:11 pm
Avi says
Thanks!
Apr 15, 2021 at 1:40 am
David Turner says
Mar 23, 2021 at 10:37 am
David Turner says
Also I do not need a separate appointment for marriage document and passport verification, they can do both on the one appointment which is of 30 minute duration.
Mar 30, 2021 at 9:18 am
David Turner says
First if you are British the Application pack was updated 9/2/21, there is another form to fill in and a slight change in wording.
If you have a Yellow book make sure that you use this address on the form.
The Application needs to filled in using WORD.
I stayed at the Eastin Grand Hotel which is just 10 minutes from the British Embassy, a very good hotel. My Appointment at the Embassy was for 0900 I arrived early and was underway at 0850, all staff friendly, polite and professional and you dont need 2 appointments they can do passport an Affirmation in the one.
Off to the Thai Ministry, translation took 1 hour and were 400bts each, upstairs for the lady to check you have all the right paperwork and gives the ticket, there are 87 people in front of me!! 200bts for each paper fee and 60bts for the postage. I arrived here at 1045 and left at 1515, there is small Family Mart in the building. This was on the 11th May, postman delivered 14th.
17th went to the local Amphur and the officer asks for a copy of my birth certificate and translation.
Went back on the 18th with all the documents and they way she was pouring over the papers it looked to me like she was looking for a way to reject the application for marriage. She showed me a French Application which she passed. To cut a long story short on the British Embassy approval, which the Thai Ministry were happy to approve, there was a small note which stated that the Affirmation was not legally binding, in the Officer's view the document was not certified.
I rang the British Embassy and explained the position and they aske that we ask the Officer to phone them, which she refused to do.
We had a met a chap at the Thai Ministry who did all the paperwork for others, an agent so we rang him and returned to Bangkok ( Rangsit )on the 20th and got married there, where we met a Finnish man having the same problems as us and he was Rayong.
From my experience I would advise anyone to get married in Bangkok it seems a lot easier, local officials make up their own rules and they do the ruling, you might try the smoothing of the palms approach but no guarantee would the cost will be or if it will work. We had to pay for the agent it was 8500bts its all done now but as in Thailand nothing is ever straightforward even if you show them the first page in the passport about helping and hindering a British Passport holder.
If anyone needs the agents name an number I am happy to provide it.
May 21, 2021 at 10:18 am
Berns says
May 23, 2021 at 2:05 am
David says
Jun 02, 2021 at 5:59 pm
Dave says
Jun 18, 2021 at 12:00 pm
David Turner says
Sunan Markham 0972698800.
That appears to be his line number as well but the wife knows about such things but not me, good luck to you both.
Jun 18, 2021 at 6:12 pm
Michael says
Mar 22, 2021 at 3:15 pm
David Turner says
May 23, 2021 at 10:11 am
Wai says
Thanks.
Mar 22, 2021 at 2:54 pm
Alex says
I heard that my country's embassy in Malaysia is 'covering Thailand', but so far they didn't reply, and even if they can assist with 'Marry Affirmation" paper, not sure if it's possible to do 'passport authentication' (since I'm in Thailand).
Thanks and Regards,
Alex
Mar 19, 2021 at 2:22 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 20, 2021 at 12:48 am
Alex says
I was hoping that nearest embassy (in KL) could assist without me going there, but no any reply from them . . .
Mar 22, 2021 at 3:39 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 22, 2021 at 4:38 pm
Alex says
Mar 24, 2021 at 1:17 pm
Mariane lou says
Mar 18, 2021 at 7:45 pm
JamesE says
Mar 18, 2021 at 10:34 pm
Jane says
Mar 24, 2021 at 8:41 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 26, 2021 at 12:05 am
Dar says
Oct 10, 2021 at 3:39 pm
William Macaulay says
Can I get my Divorce Absolute translated in Bangkok at the same time as the other documentation I need translated or do I get this done at home (UK) BEFORE flying out?
Regards, Will
Mar 16, 2021 at 8:12 am
TheThailandLife says
Mar 16, 2021 at 7:46 pm
Sitti says
Mar 09, 2021 at 11:40 am
Peter Jones says
Mar 06, 2021 at 6:03 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 08, 2021 at 7:41 pm
David Turner says
Dec 25, 2020 at 11:21 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 26, 2020 at 5:18 am
Rowland says
Dec 21, 2020 at 7:58 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 21, 2020 at 8:07 pm
Rowland says
Hadn't thought that was possible. Many thanks for your advice.
Dec 21, 2020 at 10:41 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 21, 2020 at 11:18 pm
Sam says
Dec 19, 2020 at 2:09 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 21, 2020 at 8:08 pm
Roar says
Dec 02, 2020 at 11:12 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 02, 2020 at 5:28 pm
Mariel says
We are Argentinian and Russian and would love to get this done next week.
Where to get the addresses and phone numbers of the amphors? And any suggestions on our case? We also don’t have translators or with ness.
Thanks
Nov 27, 2020 at 3:37 pm
Chizelle says
Thank you and have a good day
Nov 25, 2020 at 12:57 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 25, 2020 at 5:08 pm
Chizelle says
Nov 25, 2020 at 5:34 pm
Tony says
What happens after you
Marry your Thai wife in Thailand and plan to stay in Thailand? Are there any government/marriage obligations? Do you have to continue doing the 90 day report? I’m American and met my girlfriend in Thailand while working.
Oct 23, 2020 at 2:10 pm
Seb says
Oct 23, 2020 at 7:10 pm
Dennis Perry says
Feb 23, 2021 at 11:52 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 23, 2021 at 4:59 pm
Ronald Saleem says
My question, how can we have their marriage registered at Amphur? Can any local agency intervene in this and help
Oct 13, 2020 at 2:09 am
TheThailandLife says
Oct 13, 2020 at 3:54 am
DEMI says
I'm planning on marrying in Krabi April 2021. I read in the blog that the documents can be collected/delivered? Does that mean I could get them delivered to my hotel in krabi? (Obviously I would correspond that with the hotel first) to save having to stay in Bangkok for so long?
Also reading the comments is making me feel like this is very difficult. Is there a big chance of us wasting our money and coming home unmarried and wasting our holiday?
Oct 07, 2020 at 2:02 am
Seb says
Oct 07, 2020 at 8:17 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 08, 2020 at 12:12 am
TheThailandLife says
Oct 08, 2020 at 12:13 am
QH says
however there are some contradictions with what my thai fiance found.
She told me we will need the following documents and need them translated (1 set in English for Embassy, 1 Set in Thai for MFA)
1. Legalization Request Form
2. Application form for Registration of Marriage
3. Original Passport + 1 Copy (Both of us)
4. Original ID Card of my fiance + 1 Copy
5. Original tabien baan + 1 copy
6. Affirmation of Freedom to Marry (translated and certified by embassy)
So i'm a little confused here and hope to find some enlightment here
Sep 15, 2020 at 5:45 pm
Seb says
Sep 19, 2020 at 6:51 pm
Zdravko Cukovic says
Aug 31, 2020 at 4:30 pm
JT says
Aug 30, 2020 at 9:05 pm
Lelethu says
Both my Fiance and i are South African. I am on a visa but my Fiance is on an Amnesty. We hope to get married in Thailand before all that expires as we have two small toddlers and dont feel him and the babies should go back home at a time like this.
Have have absolutely no idea where to start with this process. I will try and follow your guide and see how far i can go.
Can i please ask you if you have an agent that might be able to assist aswell.
Regards
Lele
Aug 19, 2020 at 7:26 pm
Seb says
"According to the SA embassy in BKK, I need
1. letter of no impediment from the Department of Home Affairs (Pretoria) --> proving my marital status
2. this letter needs to be certified by DIRCO
3. afterwards the letter needs to be stamped at the Thai embassy (Pretoria)
4. lastly, the letter needs to be presented with my passport at the SA embassy in Bangkok
Most numbers on the DHA and DIRCO sites do not work, or they never pick up. I have emailed countless people and aside from the embassy in BKK, no one has responded."
The Embassy is at All Seasons Place, Pathum Wan, Thailand 10330
Phone: +66 2 659 2900
Hope this helps and good luck.
Aug 20, 2020 at 9:00 am
Anthony says
Thanks for your help!
Anthony
Aug 01, 2020 at 3:28 am
David M says
Jul 23, 2020 at 4:10 pm
Seb says
Jul 23, 2020 at 6:42 pm
Baz M says
Jul 24, 2020 at 8:44 pm
Mike says
Jul 13, 2020 at 2:57 pm
Baz M says
Jul 13, 2020 at 10:32 pm
Mike says
I am a uk citizen wishing to marry a thai lady, is this possible while on the current Visa amnesty I have a flight to UK booked for 28th July and will hopefully return end of October if pandemic allows would like to to get married before I leave if possible
Thanks
Jun 21, 2020 at 1:47 am
TheThailandLife says
Jun 21, 2020 at 3:49 am
Steve Reeves says
Jun 10, 2020 at 5:20 pm
Ash says
Jun 22, 2020 at 12:59 pm
Baz M says
But I could be out of date on procedures, I got married June 2019..scroll back to then and read my comments around June 24th ish 2019...
Good luck
Jun 24, 2020 at 6:16 pm
Mark says
Jun 05, 2020 at 7:22 pm
chris says
we already signed the legal documentation, we want to do a mock wedding.
What is the process regards to that
May 06, 2020 at 3:24 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 06, 2020 at 5:56 pm
J Cruickshank says
Apr 17, 2020 at 9:28 pm
Seb says
May 19, 2020 at 8:49 am
Russell Simpson says
Apr 16, 2020 at 2:12 am
Sai says
they said they need to double check document with embassy is may take more than a month, some place in bkk ask for a coviq-19 test i lived here for like 5 years never go to europe but still ask.
i try call Lopburi they said they not accept have to go to hometown GF or Bkk, same word from Ayutthaya. she from Petchabun they said too that we need to go there 2 times coz they need to double check document.
many problem coz of virus now, is may become soon impossible to travel between province, idk where i can do it faster, i have mostly all document single certificate, passeport traduction and attestion from honor that i will get mary to my GF of course all are double stamped from embassy, translate and stamped by MFA. can someone can help where should be the easiest place to go please
Mar 24, 2020 at 9:23 pm
Manendra says
Me and my wife return to india she can get indian nationality?
Apr 03, 2020 at 11:28 am
Sebastian Barrow says
Apr 03, 2020 at 7:00 pm
todd sawyer says
Mar 04, 2020 at 5:05 pm
Oluwole says
Feb 29, 2020 at 11:46 am
Bruno says
The ones that could process it potentially more rapidly have a 1st come 1st served queue and limited to 6-8 couples per day...
Others like Watthana and Phra Khanong either have a 2-3 month wait list or request some "undisclosed time" to study my documents to double check that embassy and Thai foreign ministry documents are "authentic". But approximately 2 months wait also said the officer...
So we checked outside of BKK... My girlfriend's home town (Supanburi) and they said they never married a farang, so they don't want to do it.
Chiang Mai: currently many of the heads of districts are "unavailable" for an "undisclosed" period of time, so we are getting conflicting reports that
a) no marriage can be registered in Chiang Mai province...
b) No marriage can be registered in Chiang Mai district and many others, but some like Han Dong, Doi Saket or San Kamphaeng do process marriage registrations...
Krabi: Can do, but require 2 trips to the office, one to explain and meet you, check documents, then a few days later to do the registration itself. As we live in BKK and don't have so many days we can take off, this is a slight issue... (they won't do friday- monday... ).
Another issue we came accross: various amphoe accept different time validities of your available to marry certificate: some 1 month, some up to 6 months! And also some amphoe want my passport to be translated and authenticated, some don't.
And finally also: Some amphoe provide the witnesses, some will not; amongst the latter, some will accept quasi strangers, while others request that they be relatives of friends who truly now you.
Words of wisdom: call ahead to find out. Way ahead.
Feb 25, 2020 at 5:06 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 25, 2020 at 6:41 pm
Ashneet Kaur says
Feb 22, 2020 at 11:01 pm
Seb says
Feb 23, 2020 at 4:30 pm
Ashneet Kaur says
Feb 23, 2020 at 9:02 pm
Ronald Durante says
2 questions if anybody can answer
Are the requirements that I stated true at bang rak, anybody have a recent experience?
And what about lak si, anyone know the requirements there?
Nobody in this article or thread of comments has mentioned anything about a human translator. Yet every amphur my girlfriend calls in bangkok says you need human translator.
Feb 21, 2020 at 6:25 pm
Bruno says
Feb 25, 2020 at 4:49 pm
David Wood says
Am I right to presume that the covering letting is from the Court? and is there anywhere I can look to see what format and wording this should take.
Thanks
Dave
Feb 20, 2020 at 3:13 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 20, 2020 at 5:34 pm
Dave says
Feb 24, 2020 at 9:35 am
Ash says
Feb 19, 2020 at 9:00 pm
Lauren says
We are two uk citizens and are now legally married (still enjoying our time on Thailand). We got married on the 7th feb in Koh samui, all legal stuff sorted in Bangkok and amphur came on the day signed everything and now that thai wedding certificate. Do we have to get this translated? As there are various comments online, will this cause any problems back in the uk?
Thanks lauren
Feb 15, 2020 at 4:20 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 16, 2020 at 6:12 am
Lauren says
Should I get this translated in Thailand or back in the uk?
Feb 16, 2020 at 6:01 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 16, 2020 at 7:11 pm
Graham says
"Occupation **** ******* and I have an income of £ **** per month"
This is from one I completed in 2015,
The new for has only "Occupation"
Q is can add this to the new form?.
Jan 29, 2020 at 1:04 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 29, 2020 at 3:12 pm
Graham says
I am going back to the Amphur tomorrow with a years worth of salary slips along with copies of the old and new affirmation's and make them aware of the change. By the way my appointment isnt until the 6th Feb so I have a little bit of time. I will update as I go through the process as I have found your site very informative. Wish me luck.:)
Jan 30, 2020 at 6:29 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 30, 2020 at 7:22 pm
Graham says
Jan 30, 2020 at 7:49 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 30, 2020 at 7:59 pm
Graham says
Jan 31, 2020 at 7:06 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 31, 2020 at 7:31 pm
Stef says
Quick question - UK citizen marrying a Thai-
Any Idea about a UK citizen, and passport Holder, that is actually an expat and permanent resident in another EU country.
It means I have a British Passport, but address and residency in other EU Country.
I guess I still go through same process as a regular UK citizen, with affidavid from UK embassy (not the Other EU country Embassy) ??
Thanks for any tips if you know.
Jan 27, 2020 at 6:20 pm
Seb says
Jan 27, 2020 at 7:42 pm
Mizel says
My fiance and i we are planing to get married in tailand what documents we needed to get married in thailand? Between philipina and a us American? We are planing to get married this coming April 2020.
Jan 26, 2020 at 1:47 am
Seb says
Jan 26, 2020 at 11:50 am
Hayley says
Jan 22, 2020 at 6:54 pm
Seb says
Jan 22, 2020 at 8:01 pm
Bruno says
But all in all you have more chance to get it done in Phuket more rapidly given the responses my GF and I have gotten in the last week...
Feb 25, 2020 at 5:15 pm
Adam Koll says
Jan 14, 2020 at 3:58 am
Seb says
You need to book an appointment to go to the US Embassy on +66 (0) 2 205 4000. When you have finished there' then go to MFA for translations and notarising. You will be told to come back in 2 days for the completed documents so you are looking at least for 3 days to complete. Good luck.
Jan 14, 2020 at 7:01 pm
Ron says
They didn't even look at my divorce decree which I found odd.
It's quick, 45 minutes max, she asked me if I wanted the visa certification too and I did it because you now need it from what I'm being told. It was $50 and $50, $100 and you can pay with card or cash, usd or baht.
There was a tour outside for translation and since the price was going rate, 300 baht each I did it, the office was right across the street from embassy. They give you a direct line if there is a problem at the translation when you go to consular office. They offer a full range of services but I just told him its a DIY marriage and maybe we'll use you for cr1 visa help. The guy was nice and gave us his card. Unfortunately it's a thai holiday so tomorrow it's off to the consular office at mrt klong toey.
I also will add the guy told us it's not gonna be easy to get an immediate service from amphur, its changed a lot recently. But that was when he was trying to suck me into him handling it, he said soonest appointment he could get would be early march. I think he was bullshitting. I'll comment again to let you know how it went.
Feb 10, 2020 at 2:19 pm
ty_buchanan says
Department of Consular Affairs
123 Moo 3, Changwattana Road,
Kwang Toong Son Hong,
Khet Laksi, Bangkok
Ph 02 5751061, 02 5751057
Hours: 08:30 – 15:30
The official MFA building is here,
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs4.1 (79)
Government office · 443 Thanon Si Ayutthaya
Opens at 8:30 am
This is the wrong building and you will waste your day.
Jan 13, 2020 at 9:23 pm
Mark says
I (UK National) am meeting my girlfriend (Indian National) in Bangkok for two weeks this coming March. I understand most of what is to be done. Only thing that I am unsure of, is will I need a Certificate of No Impediment? I have contacted the British Embassy in Thailand and they were of no use. Does it differ from District Office to District Office or is there a rule that I'm missing somewhere? Thanks in advance!
Jan 13, 2020 at 4:35 pm
Seb says
You can complete but DO NOT sign until you go to the British Embassy in Bangkok. Also if you have married before, then an original decree absolute will be required as will a Death Certificate if you are a widower. Good luck.
Jan 13, 2020 at 5:20 pm
Mark says
Jan 13, 2020 at 9:18 pm
Martin says
Jan 18, 2020 at 7:31 am
Anji says
Can anyone suggest me the authentic agents who will be able to do our genuinely on time ,,your help is much appreciated
Thanks
Jan 08, 2020 at 10:40 pm
Lakhwinder says
Hi, I'm from usa my partner from India whe are going to be on a tourist Visa in Bangkok. Whe are heading to Bangkok in March 2020 is one week enough getting for married there. How many days do you suggest we stay in Bangkok. How to we register marriage in Thailand and wht documents we need to bring. Do you know where can I confirm that information
Jan 07, 2020 at 1:57 pm
Seb says
Jan 07, 2020 at 6:49 pm
Prashanth says
Jan 04, 2020 at 4:09 pm
Seb says
Jan 04, 2020 at 6:33 pm
S Diana says
First, Thailandlife, thank you so much for this article!
I was wondering if folks had any recent experiences with amphurs that do not require witnesses? It doesn't seem like Bangrak will work for us. I'm American and my fiance is Dutch.
Thanks!
Dec 31, 2019 at 3:34 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 31, 2019 at 7:21 pm
Lakhwinder says
Dec 28, 2019 at 4:28 pm
Ryan Anderson says
My fiancee and I are Canadian citizens. We would like to get married in Thailand, as we will not be in Canada anytime soon, looking to work in Vietnam. As our marriage/honeymoon we figured 2 birds with 1 stone sort of deal by getting married in Thailand.
From my understanding:
1-2 days: Affirmation and Passport Authentication + Translation + MFA Approval
2 day wait period for Thai Consular Approval.
After that, just get the wedding registered at a registrar office (before or after ceremony).
If everything runs smoothly, you could theoretically start the process on a Monday...and pick up these items by Thursday.
Alternatively, if we were to post it to where we were staying in Ko Tao/Surrounding...typically how long would that take for it to arrive?
Thanks,
Ryan
Dec 22, 2019 at 1:52 am
Seb says
Dec 22, 2019 at 10:06 am
Joey says
Dec 18, 2019 at 12:25 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 18, 2019 at 1:12 am
Baz M says
Dec 18, 2019 at 6:48 pm
Maria says
Thus, I am still left with a few questions that I was hoping that you would be able to answer.
Both my boyfriend and me, are with Danish nationality, and we are traveling to Thailand January 4th to January 22nd, not in Bangkok though, and this is not an option for us. We really wish to get marriage in Thailand, and have been investigating our options to do so, but seem to hit a wall all the time. You comments and advice would be very much appreciated.
1. Certificate of marital status. We have this document from our local district office in Denmark, and this has been signed off by the Royal Thai Embassy in Denmark and The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We have sent all documents required to the Danish Embassy in Bangkok, and they have approved the documents, and are processing a document for us - not sure exactly what document though. This will be sent to our hotel in Koh Lanta. This will leave us with two original documents, with stamps and everything, and they are both in danish/thai and English. Will we need a further translation? I don't understand why?
2. Having the "final" stamps at the Thailand Ministry of Foreign Affairs (step 3), is that mandatory PRIOR to having the wedding ceremony in Thailand, or is this something we can have done afterwards? And would our local Thai Embassy in Denmark be able to execute the verification on this document?
I hope you can help, I have been calling and trying to get answers from so many places. And also, trying to find an agency that handles 2 foreigners marriage is not very easy, and I haven't succeeded at all...
Best regards,
Maria
Dec 16, 2019 at 8:00 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 16, 2019 at 8:35 pm
Thomas says
I have been reading the comments here but didn't see much talk about the office at Klong Toey.
Dec 15, 2019 at 4:45 am
Dave says
Dec 13, 2019 at 8:06 pm
Andrea Ho says
Dec 11, 2019 at 8:28 pm
Seb says
Dec 12, 2019 at 1:00 pm
Matt Greenfield says
I'm from the UK and currently living in Chiang Mai. I'm planning on going down to Bangkok to get the affirmation and passport authentification + translations in January 2020.
My question is: If for example, I submit my documents on a Monday morning, would I be able to return to Chiang Mai and have the documents sent to me? Or would I be best to wait around until Wednesday/Thursday in order to pick up the documents in person?
Thanks,
Matt
Dec 09, 2019 at 1:42 pm
Seb says
Dec 09, 2019 at 7:02 pm
Marcus says
Once you have submitted them. If you choose to collect, them they are human enough to allow you to obtain a corrected translation downstairs , resubmit and get them back that day without having to wait another two days .
You also need five days minimum on your visa, or your 30 days visa exemption too . If you don’t then then the office won’t accept to process this
If that’s the case. Either go to office B within the same complex and get a seven day extension Costing 1900 thb. Or better yet, hop out of Thailand by air and reenter on a 30 day exemption before you begin everything .
This posts guidance is the best I have found . Just did mine today .
Thank you kindly
Dec 12, 2019 at 5:16 pm
Seb says
Dec 12, 2019 at 7:41 pm
jemima Gray says
Thanks
Jem
Dec 07, 2019 at 1:22 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 07, 2019 at 6:08 pm
Seb says
Dec 07, 2019 at 7:39 pm
Jack says
Dec 06, 2019 at 4:12 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 16, 2019 at 8:07 pm
Liz says
Does anyone know if the VISA office will ask me for wedding photos? And, as I'm a woman, I also heard that the financial obligations of the foreigner are reduced (because, you know, we're dependent - glory to the patriarchy!) Can anyone confirm that?
Dec 04, 2019 at 6:51 am
Seb says
Dec 04, 2019 at 7:55 pm
steve says
am going to Thailand in February 19/02/20 till 04/03/20 2 week holiday in Krabi in them 2 weeks can i get married and what documents i need to take with me from the UK
Dec 03, 2019 at 10:51 pm
Seb says
Probably not want you want to hear but the details are above in the article from TheThailandLife. Getting married in Krabi could lead to a delay of 2 to 3 weeks if they send the documents back to MFA for verification.
Only documents you would need are as below in an answer to Simon.
Dec 04, 2019 at 9:12 am
simon says
Nov 30, 2019 at 4:53 pm
Seb says
Everything document wise must be done through the British Embassy in Bangkok before going to MFA.
Nov 30, 2019 at 6:36 pm
Michelle says
Nov 30, 2019 at 10:43 pm
Seb says
Your partner would have to contact Ugandan Embassy in Thailand . B 3/26 Vasant Vihar New Delhi 110057 India Phone +91-11-26145817 +91-11-26144413 Fax +91-11-26144405 Email ughcom@ndb.vsnl.net.in
I am not sure if the document on this webpage would be acceptable or not. You would probably have to speak with someone at the MFA first.
http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/MARRIAGE%20AFFIDAVIT.pdf/Files/MARRIAGE%20AFFIDAVIT.pdf
Good luck.
Dec 01, 2019 at 9:15 am
George says
Nov 28, 2019 at 2:50 am
Seb says
Nov 28, 2019 at 9:11 am
Stephen says
Can we make an appointment? No, from Dec you just come everyday until you get a space ! But the people in the queue made appointments? Sorry you cannot make appointments!
Also gave us a document that states
Two witnesses, your family members . They will not witness for you. Helpfully we were told that if one were a family member that would accept a friend as the other.
Nov 27, 2019 at 12:58 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 27, 2019 at 4:53 pm
Seb says
Nov 28, 2019 at 9:13 am
Baz M says
Nov 28, 2019 at 2:43 pm
Berns says
Nov 08, 2019 at 11:46 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 09, 2019 at 6:11 pm
Anjega says
My best advice, don't do the legal part in Thailand! Processes are slow and there is a lot of bureaucracy.
Nov 14, 2019 at 11:19 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 14, 2019 at 5:18 pm
Stephen says
Nov 27, 2019 at 12:48 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 27, 2019 at 4:50 pm
Berns says
Apr 26, 2021 at 2:46 am
Baz M says
Good luck.
Nov 08, 2019 at 3:18 am
Antony says
Nov 07, 2019 at 6:22 pm
Baz M says
Good luck.
Nov 07, 2019 at 11:56 pm
Seb says
If this is a first time marriage then no other documents are required. Affirmation of Marriage can be completed and filled in but NOT signed, then printed if easier to do in UK.
Nov 08, 2019 at 9:41 am
Mohan says
And one more thing, what would Indian Embassy ask (which documents) to provide me Affirmation certificate.
Nov 05, 2019 at 9:22 pm
John says
Nov 03, 2019 at 12:28 am
Baz M says
Nov 04, 2019 at 1:22 am
Steve says
Nov 27, 2019 at 1:56 pm
Neha says
Oct 24, 2019 at 6:21 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 25, 2019 at 7:49 pm
Neha says
Oct 30, 2019 at 1:03 pm
david says
Oct 16, 2019 at 4:23 pm
john says
Oct 11, 2019 at 5:05 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 11, 2019 at 6:53 pm
john says
Oct 15, 2019 at 6:18 pm
john says
Oct 15, 2019 at 8:49 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 15, 2019 at 8:51 pm
Fede says
Once you're done with step 1 and you have your Freedom to Marry plus copy of Passport certified by your Embassy you will need translations.
This is where i found things tricky: The lady from the MFA warned me ahead that many times the MFA officer doesnt like the "wording" or terms used by the translator. So they send the documents back to be corrected.
Knowing this, i went to BABEL Translator and Visa cuz it happened to be in the same building as my Embassy. They said the same thing... they said "we will translate, but theres no guarantee that they will approve it the first time".
This is NOT about money, its about getting refused, having to pick up the documents, take em to the translator AGAIN, then back to MFA... etc
They offered to deal with all this for 1000 baht. Which to me is damn cheap compared to driving in BKK, finding parking, paying for parking, tolls, gas and my TIME.
In the end the documents DID get refused the first time around, BABEL picked em up, corrected them, submitted again and within 4 days they had all ready and stamped and even GRABed it to my house with a messenger.
So any of you thinking about paying for someone to deal with this... just PAY. Well worth it.
They charged 500 a page (2 pages) for translation, 400 a page for MFA, plus their 1000 = 2800 baht
Getting into talking about Express Service, 2 day, 3 day... its really a lottery cuz if your translation gets kicked back... then theres no guarantee you will meet those times.
Of course my passport and Embassy is not the "typical". If you hold USA, UK, etc... most common passports most translation offices already have a "form" cuz its always the same wording. But if your Embassy/Nationality is not that common... take all this into consideration.
Total cost was the 2800 i paid BABEL plus almost 3000 my Embassy requested (affirmation and passport cert) round it up to 6k.
Thanks again to all who commented and the blog itself.
Oct 07, 2019 at 6:27 pm
Anna G says
Many thanks, such a useful site.
Oct 06, 2019 at 9:27 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 06, 2019 at 11:09 pm
Anna G says
Oct 07, 2019 at 2:35 pm
Seb says
Oct 08, 2019 at 9:59 am
Matt Simpson says
We are getting married on Tuesday 14th April in Phuket and visited in June to meet our wedding planner and to organise most things. We were quoted originally 18,000 THB for a rep from the local Amphur office to attend the wedding and ensure the legal wedding. We have just been quoted 31,250 THB in addition for the entire process beforehand at the embassy etc - this seems ridiculous - can someone give me an indication of what we should be paying??
The costs quoted for 2 British citizens include: certified copies of British passport at embassy 2,565 / Affirmation of marital status at the embassy 5,300 / legalisation copies of passport at the ministry of foreign affairs 3,800 / legalisation affirmation of marital status at the ministry of foreign affairs 5000 / legalisation marriage certification at the ministry of foreign affairs 5000 / legalisation marriage registration certificate at the ministry of foreign affairs 6000 / Company service 2000/Courier fee BKK to Phuket 2000
Oct 01, 2019 at 5:47 pm
James E says
Oct 01, 2019 at 7:29 pm
Matthew Simpson says
Oct 02, 2019 at 3:30 pm
Baz M says
Check out my diary dated Jun 24th this yr incase I get my figures wrong....
Roughly though, I pre paid for Passport Cetified and Affirmation to marry at the Embassy Bgk £75 (3500 baht ish), then 2000 baht, for translations of Affirmation and Passport Cert, MFA stamp and the translators fee. I then paid a local translator in the Amphur 3500 to get me in the Amphur quickly all in....So just for me 9000 baht to get it all done, add maybe 500 - 1000 for taxis, BTS etc. So for 2 of you to get it done in Bgk would have been 20,000. However your doing this all in Phuket and I've no idea how that works...so maybe 32k baht isnt as extortionate as you might think. I'm no expert though, so I'm sure somebody else who got it done in Phuket might be able to offer better advice. Good luck, time is on your side to shop around and do some more research.
Oct 01, 2019 at 7:34 pm
Matthew Simpson says
Oct 02, 2019 at 3:28 pm
Seb says
Costs involved at The British Embassy would be 1950 x 4 = THB 7800. That would be for 2x Affirmation of Marriage and 2x Passport Legalisation. This can be done in one morning but would advise phoning them on +66 2 305 8333 just to check how many "appointments" to book. Taxi to MFA
Then at the MFA all translations and legalisations can be done for around 2x2100 which includes getting everything done and posted back EMS to your address in Thailand. On entering the MFA go to top of stairs and agent is in front of you. Or you can do it yourself but involves 2 trips to MFA.
So the Embassy and MFA costs come in at around THB 12000.
Please check if that the Amphur will need to send documents back to MFA for verification which could take 2 to 3 weeks. This is where an Agent may be able to circumvent this.
Oct 01, 2019 at 8:01 pm
Seb says
Oct 02, 2019 at 9:01 am
Edward Creighton says
Or should I wait for Chinese New Year when i return to Thailand anyway. Week of January 27 to 31st?
Oct 10, 2019 at 3:59 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 11, 2019 at 7:14 pm
Edward Creighton says
Oct 12, 2019 at 6:39 pm
Edward Creighton says
Oct 18, 2019 at 4:57 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 18, 2019 at 5:58 pm
Edward Creighton says
pay cash at embassy?
could i get affirmation and certified passport at british consulate in shanghai, translation in bangkok?
Oct 18, 2019 at 9:39 pm
Seb says
Oct 19, 2019 at 6:21 pm
edward creighton says
trying to arrange schengen and uk tourist visa for her, not being married likely to complicate things.
to confirm i can get married on tourist visa?
Dec 28, 2019 at 9:16 am
TheThailandLife says
Oct 22, 2019 at 7:13 pm
Kamel says
Sep 26, 2019 at 10:41 am
TheThailandLife says
Sep 26, 2019 at 5:26 pm
Aakash says
Sep 20, 2019 at 1:27 am
Kevin says
Sep 17, 2019 at 12:23 pm
Seb says
Sep 19, 2019 at 9:44 am
Fede says
Thanks for the article
As many people have mentioned... the whole certification of passport is confusing.
If EMBASSY is Step 1, then that step should be getting the freedom to marry + 1 embassy certified copy of passport
Step 2 would be translations
Step 3 then MFA
I followed the articles Step 1, then went for translations... only to realize later i needed to make a 2nd trip to the embassy for the passport certification.
Any ideas or knowledge on translating your own documents?
If there is no official place, license to translate, or endorsement from the translation place.... ive been 800-1500 for one page that has "name"..."dob".... and a few numbers... not trying to be cheap but just seems absurd.
Sep 17, 2019 at 8:08 am
Seb says
I got my documents translated at the MFA and they are top of the stairs when you enter. You will need them to do this as they translate the Affirmation of Marriage and the certified copy of your Passport. Cannot remember their charges but they are very reasonable. They will also present the documents for stamping and post back to you if required.
Sep 19, 2019 at 9:53 am
TheThailandLife says
Sep 19, 2019 at 8:54 pm
Mike Blockley says
Thank you for the article, very helpful.
What would be the actual date of the marriage for anniversary purposes. Is it the date of registration at an Amphur, the date of the unofficial ceremony, or can we choose?
Many thanks,
Mike
Sep 09, 2019 at 5:14 pm
TheThailandLife says
Sep 10, 2019 at 9:19 pm
Mike Blockley says
Thanks,
Mike
Sep 16, 2019 at 4:44 pm
Aaron says
Sep 09, 2019 at 1:50 pm
TheThailandLife says
Sep 09, 2019 at 3:53 pm
Aaron says
Sep 12, 2019 at 2:23 pm
John says
Would someone confirm my steps?
1. Appointment at british embassy (print out / fill in docs before I go, not signing anything yet)
2. I get my passport Certified at the British embassy? (If thats the case should this bit not really be in step 1?)
3. Translation of certified passport / affirmation.
- (Do they need to translate every page of passport including previous stamps/visa etc, or just the photo/information page?)
4. When I get to Chaeng Wattana Ministry of Foreign Affairs...
- Is there 2 steps here I need to take? first being getting my passport translation stamped, and then getting all my documents checked / getting a queue to submit everything? Or is the passport translation stamp given when they are reviewing your documents?
5. wait for documents to be processed and handed back
6. get married!
Many thanks for all the helpful info
Sep 08, 2019 at 1:08 pm
TheThailandLife says
Sep 08, 2019 at 4:14 pm
Baz M says
Also have a quick scan over my mini diary I wrote on June 14th on here in the comments section of my whole process I went through whilst in Thailand in June. Stick to the documents they say you need in the main article and you will be fine. Good luck with the whole process!!
Sep 09, 2019 at 2:20 pm
Lauren says
We are going to Bangkok independently prior to the wedding to sort out all the paperwork as we want to get this done as quick as possible. We are then gettig married officially in koh samui. What happens after we get the the paperwork back from the MFA. Do we just take this to koh samui with us to the local district office and then we are legally married? Will they give us a wedding certificate there?
Thanks Lauren
Sep 04, 2019 at 4:35 am
Loren says
Sep 02, 2019 at 10:45 pm
Tika says
I'd like to ask:
- Which District Office did you get married at? Was it an easy process?
- Did the British Embassy require your spouse birth certificate that valid for 6-months? I heard some embassy requires this, but i'm not sure specifically for British Embassy.
It's such a hassle already from my end to complete all the necessary documents, hoping I won't be required to provide the 6-months valid birth certificate as we don't have such a thing here, as it's valid for life-time. Many thanks.
Aug 30, 2019 at 10:27 am
Baz M says
Sep 01, 2019 at 4:12 pm
Angie says
Sep 02, 2019 at 6:44 am
TheThailandLife says
Sep 02, 2019 at 5:29 pm
Jen says
Also, how much it is to get documents legalised at MOFA? Thanks very much
Sep 27, 2019 at 11:57 am
TheThailandLife says
Sep 27, 2019 at 7:36 pm
Seb says
All you can do is try other Amphurs to see if there is a way round this, greasing a palm as has been said.
The costs of translating and legalizing at MFA is around 1500 baht. On entering MFA go to top of stairs and very good agents are there for that purpose.
Sep 28, 2019 at 8:53 am
Will says
Could i get the translations done, then get them stamped in Thailand?
Thanks
Aug 28, 2019 at 6:39 pm
Yong says
Aug 22, 2019 at 11:48 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 22, 2019 at 6:48 pm
Richard says
I have just finished my education visa and got a new tourist visa in Hanoi. I had forgot about the 'O' visa, would it make a difference to me in getting my marriage certificate or can I still get married with tourist visa?
I'm a bit confused why some comments are saying 1-2 months to get documents back, but this guide is saying 2-3 days to complete. Am I missing something in such a big difference in time? I don't mind paying for an agent if that's the big time difference maker.
Once documents are submitted, do they just post them back to you or how do they inform you when they are completed/ processed?
After we get certificate of marriage, can I then apply for marriage visa or is there another preliminary step before that? E.g I would wait for my 60 day tourist visa to expire then head to Vientiane Thai Embassy and apply for marriage visa?
Thanks again
Best regards
Aug 22, 2019 at 11:27 am
Richard says
Aug 22, 2019 at 1:05 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 22, 2019 at 6:46 pm
Steve K says
This has been very informative,thanks so much.I'm looking at marrying my Thai fiancee next February.I'm from Australia and will be in Thailand for 4 weeks.My one issue is the possibility of having to wait for our documents to be sent for verification from the Amphur,and the chance they could take a few weeks.Does anyone have any very recent experience at a Bangkok or Issan Amphur,where they don't send documents for verification,or have them for just a few days?Thanks in advance,Steve
Aug 25, 2019 at 1:12 pm
Baz M says
Read my recent comments from around mid June onwards...
Hope it helps you...
Aug 26, 2019 at 12:43 am
ken says
good evening and good day.
myself from Malaysia and next year 2020, i'm going to marriage my girlfriend from Chiang Mai.
May i know, what documents needed my Thailand girlfriend who is from Chiamg Mai.
also, what documents needed by myself and i'm from Malaysia.
Thank you.
Ken
Aug 22, 2019 at 12:23 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 22, 2019 at 6:51 pm
Kevin says
Aug 21, 2019 at 3:07 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 21, 2019 at 4:23 am
James E says
Aug 21, 2019 at 7:13 am
Yoana says
Does one need the freedom to marry certificate from the embassy in Thailand or can I use one obtained in my home country? It's the same country lol but instead of an embassy I would get it back home. I am Dutch and I want to marry my British partner. Do we have to go to BKK or can we stay in Phuket?
Kind regards
Aug 15, 2019 at 7:20 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 15, 2019 at 8:08 pm
Dan says
Anyway, a few comments/queries...
1. It's obviously not the best time of year as offices will be shut (but as a teacher it's my only significant time off work in the next 6 months so have to give it a try). A couple of translation companies would not offer to sort out the MFA side of things due to concern over when the MFA would be closed over Xmas/New Year, but would do the translations. One also suggested it can take up to 7 working days to get the certified affirmation docs back from the MFA... very tough if the office is shut for several days too. We'll be around from Friday Dec 20 (evening) until Monday Jan 6 (lunchtime) so you would think that's long enough, but.... any comments? Not worth the hassle over the holiday period? We'd like to squeeze in a trip to Chiang Rai for 2 or 3 days in the middle when nothing can done due to offices being shut but it's unclear exactly when that is going to be. Hope to get embassy stuff done on Monday 23rd morning (earliest possible due to weekend). Then translated into Thai, then submitted at MFA before their holiday starts.
2. Amphurs..... anyone know when they are closed over Xmas/New Year? Or how to make appointments via email/Whatsapp?
3. MFA second time around required or best not bother? I read that you don't need to return to the MFA for a certified translation of marriage document as long as you use a certified translator (much easier if we don't have to fit around MFA opening/closing a second time around). We would then get the marriage document translated into both English and Indonesian and take it to the relevant office here in Jakarta once we are back home.
Quite a hassle, but better than being forced to change religion.
Any recent experiences, especially from Indonesian-British couples, greatly appreciated, as it appears rules are changing a fair bit this year and the office holiday closure dates are difficult to find too.
Aug 07, 2019 at 1:03 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 15, 2019 at 9:50 pm
Chris says
Jul 30, 2019 at 7:25 pm
Henry says
First, thanks very much for the Thai marriage advice.
My Thai partner and almost have all required papers ready.
One question please: can we marry when I am in Thailand on a visa on arrival? Tourist visa.
The immigration officer at the Thai embassy in The Netherlands refused to issue an "O" visa to me for no good reason, as I had all required papers with me.
I have been living in Vietnam for 24 years and quite familiar with Thailand.
I hope you might know if the visa on arrival is sufficient to marry.
Thanks again and kind regards,
Henry and Patcharapa
Jul 27, 2019 at 3:53 pm
Chris says
Jul 30, 2019 at 7:24 pm
Zyrish says
Jul 23, 2019 at 6:58 pm
Danny Ong says
the 2nd times i go they give reason is my document might not complete.they said i can try my luck by submit all document and wait 1or 2 months for checking. if complete,will call us for register marriage. they strongly said there is no such thing (submit document today and marriage tomorrow)
Jun 28, 2019 at 12:50 pm
Kinga says
Need to leave Bkk same day.
Jun 24, 2019 at 12:35 pm
Baz M says
Day one 7th June - Appointment booked at Embassy for 8.40am. Arrived 8.20am, everything in order so was out of there by 08.45. Very helpful, finger on signature and listened to oath to swear everything correct. Some brit in there totally unprepared. I helped him with his form.
BTS to Mo Chit. Taxi from there to MFA 100 baht. But possible to catch Metro from Mo Chit to Lak Si and shorter taxi ride to MFA.
At MFA, went up first escalator and used translation service literally right in front of you at a blue counter (left hand side). For some reason I was a bit wary of using one of the agents at the door. Some of them had no badges or anything so didn't trust them. But that's just me!! Paid 2000 baht total. This included Passport&Affirmation translation, MFA stamp and her service i.e 900 translations, 800 MFA stamp, 300 for her service. Peace of mind because if it was wrong she would change it then and there. My fiance liked her and exchanged line messages with her.
Tuesday 11th June - Collected translations. Apparently she had made a mistake, but she rectified it herself. Probably a good reason to use her because of this fact.
Wednesday 12th - Phoned Bang Rat to check about appointments, they said we could come in that afternoon as they had space, unfortunately we were half way to Chonburi.
Friday 14th - Arrived at Bang Rat at 7.50am, told we were too late as fully booked. Apparently one couple arrived at 2am to queue up! I find this hard to believe, but it's true!!. Took motorbike taxi to Siam station then BTS to Mo Chit then taxi to Lak Si District office. Looks nicer than Bang Rat by the way. Arrived there, no room, they said we could book an appt for Monday, but then the missus went to the translation desk (Main lobby, right hand side) and lady there said that if we paid her 3500 baht she would get us done today. Desperation kind of kicked in so I agreed the fee. We went with the translator in a taxi to Don Meuang. Ironically this is where I wanted to go as the next alternative, but missus said try Lak Si first.
Spent around an hour or so there. Maybe the fee we paid the woman was for her to get us in the queue quick and a way to bypass the fact we had no translator or witnesses. The woman who registered our marriage spoke decent enough English so translated it for us, again maybe this was what the woman we paid knew. To be honest I didn't have a clue what was going on in there, but just trusted the woman and my missus.
Taxi back to Mo Chit, BTS to Phloen Chit and after a few stressful minutes deliberating what are next move was i.e do we need to take the translated marriage certificate back to the MFA for certification, shall we use the translator that did my Affirmation & Passport, shall we use Express Translation blah blah. Then I looked ar some of the posts on here (May 23rd 19), I read that Thailand Life says you don't need an MFA certified Marriage certificate, just translated into English by a Certified Translator. So we have just paid 1000 baht to get it translated as Express Translation, Phloen Chit, collecting tomorrow at midday.
I am now officially Married!!
If somebody can just confirm whether or not I need the English Marriage Certificate that i collect tomorrow certified at the MFA that would give me some peace of mind.
I hope this helps...
The main blog is a God send. Stick to the documents they say to bring to the Amphur and you will be fine. Thanks again Thailand Life.
Baz & Rose.
Jun 14, 2019 at 2:31 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 14, 2019 at 4:24 pm
Baz M says
Cheers!!
Jun 14, 2019 at 6:57 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 14, 2019 at 8:37 pm
Paulo & Hazel says
Jun 21, 2019 at 3:46 pm
Baz M says
If you head in the main entrance at Lak Si District Office, look slightly right in the main lobby and there is a small counter in the far right corner past the main office on your right hand side. The counter had Translation service on it. There was also a guy working at the desk. Not sure how good his English as the wife did all the talking!! But you can also try the office on the right hand side, go in the door and there is a desk immediately on your right, speak to him/her also. They can potentially book you in within a few days. If that fails, then Don Meuang should be your next visit as it is close to Lak Si. Maybe 10 mins tops by taxi....
Good luck!! Baz
Jun 21, 2019 at 10:53 pm
Paulo & Hazel says
Jun 22, 2019 at 4:26 pm
Elizabeth says
Jul 18, 2019 at 10:59 am
Chrisd says
Jul 19, 2019 at 7:50 pm
steve robinson says
Congratulations
Im Traveling over next month to Marry my Thai girlfriend
What papers do I need or where do I find this all out ,
What are the steps I need to take
I am completely lost after reading all the posts
Regards
Steve
Jul 27, 2019 at 3:40 am
Baz M says
First thing to do is get your appointment booked at the British Embassy. Try to get that done now as close to the date you arrive in Bangkok. Dont panic if it appears fully booked, keep checking it daily as appointments appear earlier until you can get a date for the beginning of your trip.
Ideally pay for your Affirmation to Marry and Passport Certification online and print off both receipts. Should cost you £75 total for both.
Get 5 or 6 coloured photocopies of your passport and when you arrive get the same of your visa arrival stamp, but you can do that bit later at the photocopy shop.
Follow the Gov.uk website for Thailand and download the Affirmation to Marry template. Replace all the bold headings with your information. I did two versions, one with the text I changed still in bold and the second with the same text format as the rest of the page. Its plain, doesn't look very official, but its correct.
After your appt at the Embassy head straight on the same day to the MFA at Chang Watthana and use the translation service at the top of the first small escalator you see in front of you.
This should take around 2 to 3 days, but they WILL get it right and they will text your fiance when it is ready to collect.
You will receive both your Affirmation to marry and Certified Passport translation stapled and Celotaped together. Leave it like this and then ask your fiance to find you a photocopy shop, they are like 7/11's, they are everywhere. Get 4 coloured sets of both and staple each set together.
Refer to the main article above and read the ' What documents to take to the Marriage Registrar', I used this list and it is accurate and spot on. Have it all ready and put in a little cheap folder.
The list of documents is correct, the first two Amphurs (District Offices) checked them and were happy, unfortunately they were fully booked so we know the list above is correct. Read my diary above about the names of the 3 main Amphurs we used.
Use your fiance as best you can, shes Thai, she speaks the language and good luck. I hope this helps you..
Jul 27, 2019 at 2:25 pm
Ally says
i advise to go to Lak Si directly to everybody, i think that's much better and faster. They are very kind and supportive there! i am sure you can negotiate for the date (same or not), we were waiting the boss all day, but still better to do it in one then to wait more and more!
All the best wished to everybody, happy marriages
Ally
Aug 05, 2019 at 11:15 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 05, 2019 at 7:34 pm
Karen says
My fiancé who is from Venezuela and I are planning to get married in October.
Is it possible to get married here even though there is no Venezuelan embassy here?please advise thank you!
Jun 10, 2019 at 11:07 am
TheThailandLife says
Jun 10, 2019 at 6:45 pm
Steve says
Jun 02, 2019 at 4:06 am
Seb says
Jun 02, 2019 at 9:33 am
Steve says
May 31, 2019 at 4:00 pm
Seb says
It is now becoming clear that nearly all Amphurs are having to implement the new ruling that any documents presented for a marriage ceremony HAVE to go back to Bangkok for verification. This is unfortunately due to the number of fake documents being used for sham marriages. Only Bang Rak, 8 marriages a day, and Don Muang are using the old system. So anyone planning to marry in Thailand must now factor this into the plans. Good luck.
Apr 10, 2019 at 9:33 am
Jun 01, 2019 at 12:41 pm
Steve says
Jun 02, 2019 at 4:00 am
Seb says
Jun 02, 2019 at 9:12 am
Baz M says
Jun 03, 2019 at 1:30 am
Sam says
Hope all is well!
Just wanted to check in on your progress and if you had any updates!
I'm due in August and will like to be prepared if this process has now been (unfortunately) lengthen.
Jun 13, 2019 at 1:45 pm
Baz M says
I'm nearly across the finish line. I've kept a little diary of my adventure. Keep an eye on here over the next day or two. I hope it helps you.
Jun 14, 2019 at 10:00 am
TheThailandLife says
Jun 01, 2019 at 1:54 pm
Steve says
Jun 02, 2019 at 3:48 am
TheThailandLife says
Jun 02, 2019 at 4:26 am
Chrisd says
Jul 30, 2019 at 9:40 am
Steve says
May 29, 2019 at 6:28 am
Seb says
May 29, 2019 at 6:53 pm
Baz M says
Thanks for the info. Regarding the Bangkok metropilis section of the Affirmation, we are planning on using an Amphur in Bangkok, as of yet we dont know which one as we dont want to book one yet until the paperwork is done. So is Bangkok Metropolis suffice as it is if we are using one in Bangkok or do we need an area/district in Bangkok also?
Thanks in advance
May 30, 2019 at 1:05 am
Steve says
May 31, 2019 at 4:03 pm
Rachael Beth Moss says
I am British and my partner is Cuban. I know I can get an affidavit in the British embassy in Ho Chi Minh City (where we live) or in the embassy in Bangkok. However, it's more difficult for my partner as the Cuban government never make things easy. He already has the affidavit from Cuba. Can he get that stamped in the Cuban Embassy here or must it be in the Consulate of Bangkok.
Not sure if you know the answer to this but if you do, it would be great to know. We are going to try and contact them to see if we can get the information directly from them. Thanks for your wonderful and detailed post.
May 28, 2019 at 6:49 pm
Seb says
May 29, 2019 at 8:57 am
Don says
Many thanks to the for a great post on the process. We would like to share our experience to aid in others who wish to get married in Thailand.
We are very experienced travelers and have spent time navigating a few bureaucratic processes for visas and extended stays in conjunction with difficult boarder crossings. So please take this into account as you read our short report and calibrate your review accordingly.
Here are few things that we encountered after many days of research prior to coming to Thailand. Plan ahead and have all things in order and remember an error in your process or paperwork can set you back days and cost you more in - Taxi fairs, Accommodation and Meals.
1. As you read the aforementioned report you will notice their are many offices to go to and get your paperwork processed and certified. None of these locations are near to each other and will take you 25-45 min to go to depending on traffic. Plan your day early.
2. It is vital that you know your mother countries embassy hours, when they are open, holidays observed and Thailand Holidays, many embassies will honor both.
3. If you need an appointment for your embassy paperwork try and do it all in one appointment if possible and be sure to have more then one method of payment just incase one of the two fails you have a back up.
4. Be sure to check any possible Thai holidays that will overlap with your desired time frame. Plan for those in your timeline.
6. From our experience you must have a certified copies of your affidavit to marry and certified copies of your passports both must me from your mother country. Without these in had all things will come to a halt.
7. Like any government agency, don’t not count on anyone in Thailand picking up the phone when you call the numbers listed on their website and if you are lucky enough to get someone, their language skills outside of Thai will be rudimentary and best. It was to uncommon for us to never get an answer and when we did they hung up because we didn’t speak Thai.
8. We became actually aware of the nuanced challenges of getting married in Thailand when we found out that there is no express services for Certified and Authenticated Documents Notarized at the Klong Toey MRT Station.
9. Some of the Amphur / District offices have a limit on the number of marriages they can do in one day.
10. The Amphur / District offices will require a translator as no one speaks English.
After a full day of running around and dealing with a plethora of setbacks and confusion we went back to our translation office and hired them for their Thai Marriage package. This was a cost of $400. While it was outside of our forecasted budget and seemed a kings ransom when compared to our first cost analysis we can’t say how easy it was and painless.
We recommend you get an agent to assist you. Don’t go what we went through trying to push a string.
Here is the service that we used. We receive no benefit by sharing this outside of hoping that your process goes smoothly.
EXPRESS TRANSLATION SERVICE & TRAVEL CO., LTD.
866 Phloen Chit Rd, Khwaeng Lumphini, Khet Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330
02 255 5421
Agent referral: Jammarie
May 28, 2019 at 4:35 pm
Baz M says
Interesting advice there. Could you break down exactly what the €400 got you. It seems to me a rather excessive amount. Is this to get your affirmation translated and them getting it certified at the MFA for you. I'm assuming the other thing after that then needs translating is the Marriage certificate and also having that certified. How is the agency justifying two translations and a trip to the MFA when the original article says you can get a translation done for around 1000 ish baht. $400 is around 12000 baht. Sorry to come across a bit brutal but this seems extortinate. Thanks for any help you can divulge.
May 30, 2019 at 1:14 am
Jeff says
May 30, 2019 at 11:13 pm
chacha says
As advised by Don, an Agent will be very helpful, especially since we both are not experienced travelers.
Anybody can recommend me an Agent which can help us? Thanks bunch!
Jun 08, 2019 at 3:03 pm
Reneek says
May 27, 2019 at 9:10 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 28, 2019 at 2:05 am
Stephen Perry says
Now we have the thai marriage certificate would the MFA certify a translation of it into English?
May 23, 2019 at 3:04 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 23, 2019 at 6:56 pm
Andrew says
My fiancé and I have a slightly challenging situation. She is from Ecuador and I am from the USA. Ecuador no longer has an embassy in Thailand. She is able to bring an affidavit in Spanish from her home country, but there's no way to notarize it in Thailand by an Ecuadorian embassy.
I should note that the nearest Ecuadorian embassy is in Kuala Lumpur and I received an email from them that they are now handling Ecuadorian consular affairs in Southeast Asia. However, I am not inclined to go to KL to get a document notarized there since such a document would not have a Thai notarization and might not be any more acceptable than a similar document from Ecuador.
Do you have any insights?
May 21, 2019 at 9:15 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 22, 2019 at 6:41 pm
Ashley says
May 20, 2019 at 3:53 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 20, 2019 at 4:18 pm
Mike says
My thai GF was required to show her passport, even though it says nothing about that on the info sheet, luckily she had brought it along.
One section of the embassy website says your partner does not need to attend, but the info sheet says she does ...that is correct.
Because this is a new format, many amphurs offices will not be familiar with the certificate of no impediment, so the embassy will give you a letter of explanation to show the district office....a nice touch.
Your "usual address" has to be an Australian one, even if you usually live in Thailand !
And if you are not familiar with the embassy location, do NOT believe the directions on Google maps ....that will take you to the back wall. From Ploenchit, go down Wireless road (Thanon Wittayu) and turn left just past the Japanese embassy, or from Sathorn turn right just before the Japanese embassy/after the Bangkok 1 construction site. There is a sign pointing to the embassy at the corner.
There is usually a condo shuttle tuktuk parked at the Wireless road corner, they are always willing to earn a small tip by taking you to the embassy !
May 15, 2019 at 6:51 pm
Jackie says
The Letter of Affirmation of Freedom to Marry (the original & the certified translation, plus copies of both)?
May 14, 2019 at 3:40 pm
Helvin says
May 08, 2019 at 3:17 pm
Mike says
Legalisation Office
Governor’s Office, Tambol Changphuek, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai
Tel. 053 112 748 - 50
May 08, 2019 at 4:34 pm
Helvin says
May 08, 2019 at 6:38 pm
carries says
May 04, 2019 at 2:49 pm
Seb says
May 05, 2019 at 9:14 am
TheThailandLife says
May 06, 2019 at 5:33 pm
Hyang says
May 04, 2019 at 3:04 am
Hyang says
May 04, 2019 at 3:00 am
Diane says
May 02, 2019 at 9:18 pm
Steve Perry says
May 01, 2019 at 4:08 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 01, 2019 at 7:08 pm
Mike says
The Australian embassy has an info sheet online with the exact contact details.
These might be an option for people from upcountry with limited time in Bangkok.
May 01, 2019 at 10:47 pm
Stephen Perry says
May 04, 2019 at 4:14 pm
Baz M says
So can we use this place as an alternative for Affirmation authentication and then Marriage certificate Authentication. I'm getting married in June over there and am wanting to be in and out without the need for anything getting posted in the mail as we are on a bit of a tight schedule. Thanks in advance.
May 06, 2019 at 3:57 am
TheThailandLife says
May 06, 2019 at 5:32 pm
Stephen Perry says
Cant stress how efficient and quick the service is at Khlon Toei. I got some photos of the place if you can give me a way of getting them to you. I dropped off docs and picked them up 2 days later ...quick and easy it was the translation shop who told me about this place .. I had no idea before must be very new I reckon
May 07, 2019 at 8:53 am
TheThailandLife says
May 07, 2019 at 3:29 pm
Claire says
May 10, 2019 at 7:00 pm
James E says
May 10, 2019 at 9:42 pm
Mike says
May 10, 2019 at 10:02 pm
Will says
Apr 18, 2019 at 11:50 am
TheThailandLife says
Apr 18, 2019 at 9:16 pm
Colin Sare-Soar says
You mention visas and getting them authenticated. I won't have a visa as such, just an arrival stamp valid for 1 month. My Vietnamese Fiancee doesn't need a visa either and will just have a 1 month entry stamp the same as I will.
Is this what you mean?
Apr 15, 2019 at 2:20 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 15, 2019 at 3:16 pm
Somchit Srimoon says
Apr 23, 2019 at 12:32 pm
Colin Sare-Soar says
Why won't they accept Vietnamese and when did this happen?
Apr 23, 2019 at 7:46 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 23, 2019 at 10:20 pm
Colin Sare-Soar says
I have a couple of questions:
Your excellent article explains most things very well. I plan to marry my Vietnamese fiancee next month in Bangkok. I assume that we go to our separate embassies and each get our affidavits etc. done so that won't incur any time penalty?
Where do we get an official translations of the marriage certificate? We will need 2 translations, 1 English and the other Vietnamese.
Apr 15, 2019 at 2:12 pm
John says
Apr 10, 2019 at 12:13 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 10, 2019 at 5:33 pm
Jeff says
Apr 10, 2019 at 6:11 pm
Baz says
Can I just jump in on this and ask at what stage you are at for it to take 3.5 weeks? Are you waiting for your affirmation to get authenticated and they've sent them back to Bangkok? Or are you already officially married now and you are getting the Marriage certificates authenticated?
Would be good to know this as that is sending alarm bells ringing in my head!! As I want to get the whole process done in no more than 2 weeks so I can get my wife to be through the door of VFS global for her settlement Visa app before I leave there. (I'm there for a month by the way) just want the marriage stuff wrapped up in a fortnight.
Cheers
Apr 15, 2019 at 5:35 pm
Jeff says
Apr 15, 2019 at 10:00 pm
Saleem says
Apr 09, 2019 at 4:24 pm
Seb says
Apr 09, 2019 at 8:04 pm
Aly says
I’m wondering if the MFA still won’t authenticate the affidavit to marry if you have less than 10 days visa on your passport? Thank you
Apr 04, 2019 at 5:07 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 04, 2019 at 7:21 pm
Aly says
I have few clarifications:
1. Also, does the passport translation into Thai still a requirement if both couple is foreigner?
2. It’s not clear how one can certifies his/her passport by the embassy. Is it a piece of paper we have to attach to our passports then translated to Thai?
Apr 05, 2019 at 9:06 am
Seb says
2. The affidavit will consist of a colour photocopy of the Passport which is then signed and possibly an official seal of the Embassy.
Apr 05, 2019 at 7:20 pm
Lauren says
Apr 03, 2019 at 9:12 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 03, 2019 at 10:18 pm
Seb says
Apr 10, 2019 at 9:33 am
TheThailandLife says
Apr 10, 2019 at 5:30 pm
Seb says
Apr 10, 2019 at 7:40 pm
James E says
Apr 04, 2019 at 3:45 am
Snow says
After getting married does anyone know the full process for getting the certificate translated and legalised at the MFA?
This is so it can be used for proof of marriage outside of Thailand & change of name on passport etc.
I’ve read a variety of conflicting things and thought people here would be best to ask.
I am currently in Thailand so can do it in Bangkok.
Thanks
Apr 01, 2019 at 3:27 pm
john says
Apr 02, 2019 at 8:42 am
Jeff says
Apr 09, 2019 at 8:09 pm
Bryan Digby says
Impossible for UK resident to get married in Fiji. Uk government do not issue affirmations of single status for use in British Commonwealth countries. The Fiji High commision are unable and not capable of issuing affirmations.
These alternative are the only one’s acceptable by the Fijian Ministry of Justice to enable them issue a marriage license to a UK resident. We even arranged for a Fijian law practise to draw up a declaration of single status and witnessed by a local Fijian JP. This was declined.
We now intend getting married in Thailand.
When I return to UK shortly I intend applying for the required affirmation to get married in Thailand. When I return to Thailand can I by pass the visit to the British Embassy and go directly to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs?
Apr 11, 2019 at 6:04 pm
binneey says
my case is a little different but at the moment it is crucial. I got married in HuaHin Thailand in July 2018. I am from India and my husband is from USA. We did not register the marriage at that time and now we wish to as wee need a marriage certificate urgently for my visa process. Can anyone tell me if it is possible to get it registered now without having to travel to Thailand, while we both are in USA.
We have a letter from the Hua Hin hotel stating we did a three days wedding ceremonies and a letter from our event planners too.
would appreciate any help on this matter. thanks
Mar 27, 2019 at 2:13 am
TheThailandLife says
Mar 27, 2019 at 7:20 pm
Lady Cher says
Mar 20, 2019 at 5:14 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 20, 2019 at 7:34 pm
Baz M says
Really good article there.....however still a little unclear on a few things due to conflicting comments haha
1. I'm British and my girlfriend of 2 years is Thai. I'm planning on visiting Thailand in June for 3 weeks. Is this long enough to go through all the paperwork and the ceremony whilst in Thailand?
2. Am I right in thinking the Amphur is the equivalent of us getting married in a registration office back here in the UK?
3. Her parents have agreed that I don't need to pay a dowry for the wedding, but I don't want to get married in an office and want it to at least be romantic with her immediate family there, at a relatively small budget. I've spent a small fortune on flights and visas for her to visit me in Europe and the UK hence why her parents have waivered the dowry. Any recent venues, locations experiences would be greatly appreciated?
Thanks in advance
Mar 20, 2019 at 3:38 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 20, 2019 at 7:38 pm
john says
They will send you an email confirmation of your appointment.
They will also send an email one week before your appointment so you can pay your embassy fees online.
I booked into the hotel nantra for five days..round the corner from the UK embassy.
Inside they have two computers and the affirmation template are set up incase yours is incorrect. (No USB ports available)
So off to MFA .
Picked up after 3 days.
(Now this is where you might have a problem)
Some amphor in Thailand send all your documents back to Bangkok MFA for verification.
The reason being...Indian gang's have been forging the MFA papers.
My advice is to speak with one of the Thai people outside the embassy selling the wedding package ,you can haggle the price,they can get you married within a week.
Mar 23, 2019 at 6:48 am
Baz says
Really good advice there.
Do you think it's worth getting in touch with my girlfriends local Amphor office to find out if they send them back. I'm under the impression if we get married at her local office it is far easier to get her name changed for her new ID at her local district office. I want to do the application process with her new name. However if they are going to send the documents back I'd rather do it all in Bangkok, new ID card and passport, saves unnecessary travel back and forth and wasted time.
Mar 25, 2019 at 4:18 pm
Seb says
We never had to jump through this new hoop as we got married in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province where my wife and her family are well known.
Might make a difference if going to your girlfriend's Office where they should know her family.
Mar 26, 2019 at 8:55 am
ฺิB says
Apr 02, 2019 at 4:24 pm
Dave says
Mar 20, 2019 at 12:43 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 20, 2019 at 7:41 pm
Michelle manuel says
Mar 16, 2019 at 12:27 pm
Seb says
Mar 18, 2019 at 8:31 am
JOHN says
THANKS
Mar 05, 2019 at 5:51 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 05, 2019 at 6:17 pm
Seb says
The extension of stay based on marriage does have a lower financial requirement but involves 2 visits to Immigration as there is a month of consideration. Many photos of you and your wife inside different rooms in the house and outside. First time of applying will probably need a witness to confirm all your details, mother-in-law, as well as marriage certificates, Kor 2 and Kor 3. And everything has to be duplicated again. Many hoops to jump through.
Most Immigration Officers would prefer the retirement route as it is easier for them and personally, if you can afford it, stay with it. I am.
Mar 06, 2019 at 9:13 am
Leonard Levine says
Mar 05, 2019 at 1:58 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 05, 2019 at 6:10 pm
john says
I have all the documents from Bangkok ....but can not make an appointment to marry...because they have to sent them all to Bangkok to verify..same here...not know days, weeks or months for paper work to come back. Please could someone check and update the process above .
Mar 08, 2019 at 3:03 pm
Seb says
Mar 09, 2019 at 9:11 am
Nate says
Mar 15, 2019 at 7:55 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 15, 2019 at 8:18 pm
Nate says
Mar 16, 2019 at 1:17 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 17, 2019 at 5:08 pm
Dean says
Mar 17, 2019 at 3:03 am
TheThailandLife says
Mar 17, 2019 at 5:11 pm
Dean says
PS. Thanks for the reply - good info on this page!
Mar 18, 2019 at 6:15 am
Colin Sare-Soar says
I looked on Sunday (14th April) as I wanted to book an appointment for early May. The site showed no appointments available until the 16th and only on that day. The next appointment was in June!
Due to the holidays, I had to wait until today to be able to ring the embassy to check.
A very helpful lady told me the process and said the earliest appointment was the 7th May which is perfect for me.
One thing to be aware of is that the appointment is for 1 document only. Therefore, if you need 2 documents, i.e. the affirmation and passport copy, you need to make 2 appointments.
I was fortunate in that I got appointments that follow on.
There are plenty of dates available but ONLY on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
I hope this helps.
Apr 17, 2019 at 4:48 pm
Reena says
I'm a Hindu and my girlfriend is a Indian muslim. we are both Malaysian and im working in phuket now, we would like to get married in Thailand and settle down in Thailand. How do we legalize our marriage in Thailand without convert?
can we get an agent to guide and help on this process?
kindly I need a info/advice regarding this marriage process ASAP.
Thank You.
Feb 24, 2019 at 9:45 am
Ken says
Mar 25, 2019 at 1:07 pm
Ken says
Mar 25, 2019 at 1:09 pm
Sarah says
Anyone had recent luck elsewhere? Does anywhere still provide witnesses or a translator?
Feb 21, 2019 at 3:00 pm
Majo says
Feb 20, 2019 at 9:37 pm
Seb says
Based on this the Filipino Citizen may now apply to have the foreign divorce validated by the courts of the Philippines and may marry again. To do this, the petitioner must show that the divorce was obtained in conformity of the foreign laws of the country of the foreign citizen.
So it does look like you would be able to do this to get the necessary paperwork completed but it would, by looks of it, need you to go to the Philippines to do it. Or maybe a visit to your Embassy in Bangkok will help by seeing what they say.
Feb 24, 2019 at 8:53 am
Helvin says
Feb 20, 2019 at 12:30 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 20, 2019 at 6:07 pm
Helvin says
Feb 20, 2019 at 6:46 pm
Ken Cheong says
I married my thai wife last year. I dont need to provide my pay slip bu that was last year. Maybe they have change the procedure abit. You can go to Malaysia Embassy in Bangkok to check for more information. Maybe the lady at the counter able to help you.
Mar 18, 2019 at 5:47 pm
Helvin says
May 11, 2019 at 10:48 am
EDWARD D CREIGHTON says
My girlfriend will visit the Chinese Consulate on Friday March 29 to apply for a tourist visa to visit me in Shanghai. She can collect the visa on Monday April 1 after 3 pm.
Do I have enough time to go through the procedures in Bangkok between Tuesday April 2 and Friday April 5?
So Tuesday April 2 I can do Step 1. I also need to get a certificate from the UK Embassy which will allow me to open a Thai Bank Account.
Wednesday April 3 Step 2? Is there enough time to begin Step 3 and have the documents guaranteed to be given back on the Friday?
Or should I wait until the end of July? I can spend Monday July 29 – Friday August 2 in Bangkok.
Many thanks.
Feb 15, 2019 at 2:47 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 15, 2019 at 8:13 pm
Walter says
Approved but when we when to marry the cue was full
They had told my Thai girlfriend they don’t make appointment
Which offices marry foreigner
I’m from USA she is Thai
And can you provide an agent that can help us
Thank you
Feb 15, 2019 at 1:59 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 15, 2019 at 8:23 pm
Akram says
The letter of affirmation should be addressed to whom?
Please i need answer
Feb 15, 2019 at 1:36 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 15, 2019 at 8:14 pm
Matt says
We are getting married next year (both British). We are getting married in Phuket on a Tuesday and plan on being in Phuket for about 5-7 days before the marriage to see friends and family. Are we able to sort out these legalities over 5-7 days in advance so we can relax in phuket for 5-7 days before our wedding ceremony. We plan on getting the registra to our actual wedding day. Ideally we would go to Bangkok the previous Monday, get the legal docs by the Wednesday and then head to Phuket ready for the wedding the following Tuesday.
Many thanks
Matt
Feb 07, 2019 at 6:03 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 07, 2019 at 6:12 pm
Matt says
Alternatively, if we take 3 days in Bangkok - do these need to be the 3 days directly before our wedding day, or could we do this week before our wedding?
Thanks
Matt
Feb 26, 2019 at 3:11 am
Seb says
If you are getting married in April then any time 3 months in advance will be better. You can easily get everything done in March which would be for the best.
Feb 26, 2019 at 8:45 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 27, 2019 at 8:17 pm
Matthew Simpson says
Mar 02, 2019 at 7:20 am
Les says
Thank you very much.
Feb 05, 2019 at 12:05 pm
Edward Creighton says
Jan 30, 2019 at 10:33 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 30, 2019 at 6:51 pm
Graham Dietrich says
Jan 28, 2019 at 9:11 am
Mick c says
Jan 27, 2019 at 2:55 pm
Seb says
Jan 28, 2019 at 1:15 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 28, 2019 at 9:12 pm
Walter says
Is there an expiration on any of the documents we have
On the stamp
Do I have to go back to the embassy get a new documents approved from the embassy
Translate again and present again to get approved
Or can we use what we have now
It will be more than a month
And I’m wondering with the visa since it will be a new one
Thanks
Feb 22, 2019 at 1:51 am
Gfarang says
Jan 26, 2019 at 9:54 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 26, 2019 at 3:22 pm
Seb says
Jan 27, 2019 at 6:09 pm
Somchit Srimoon says
That may not be much to expats and people who live in Bangkok, but if you live in Phuket or Koh Samui. It will reduce hotel costs and wasted time in Thai government offices. It means half a morning at their embassy for most nationalities, then off to the beach or upcountry for many couples and destination wedding couples.
Mar 13, 2019 at 11:27 am
TheThailandLife says
Mar 13, 2019 at 6:45 pm
David says
Mar 13, 2019 at 11:59 pm
John telly says
So there is a special kind of visa to do this ? Or tourist visa would work ?
Thank you
Jan 26, 2019 at 4:03 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 26, 2019 at 3:25 pm
Martin says
Jan 24, 2019 at 11:22 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 25, 2019 at 12:19 am
Dee says
Jan 25, 2019 at 3:20 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 25, 2019 at 8:01 pm
Leonard Levine says
Jan 24, 2019 at 10:25 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 25, 2019 at 12:23 am
Aaron says
Thanks
Jan 22, 2019 at 2:46 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 23, 2019 at 1:12 am
john says
Do we have to make TWO appointments at the UK embassy.
1. Certified copy of passport.
2. Affirmation to marry.
I've booked for affirmation to marry,can they certify passport at the same time.
I ask because on the gov website it's asking to make an appointment for certified copies.
If that the case ...these appointments could be days apart.
Jan 21, 2019 at 5:46 pm
Seb says
Jan 22, 2019 at 5:52 pm
Colin Sare-Soar says
See my other post about appointments.
Apr 17, 2019 at 5:05 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 17, 2019 at 6:13 pm
Colin Sare-Soar says
I made 2 appointments, just to be on the safe side, one straight after the other.
The website is very specific; each appointment is for one document only.
Apr 23, 2019 at 7:56 pm
maria says
Jan 20, 2019 at 10:21 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 21, 2019 at 7:18 pm
Snow says
Does anyone know the process / best place to get the marriage certificate officially translated from Thai to English. We’re British and need it for showing proof of marriage for a variety of things outside of Thailand. I’m currently living in Bangkok so can do cheaper / longer option in if needed.
Thanks
Jan 16, 2019 at 9:39 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 16, 2019 at 7:07 pm
Chris Verhoeven says
There below were a lot of translators who can do it for you on the spot. You can also go eat there. My wife and I were having lunch while those people translated everything for us and if I'm not mistaken, it costs us only 200 baht a page.
When we finished our lunch, our documents were ready and we could go upstairs and wait to file in our documents for the official stamps.
The official stamps costs I believe 2 days before you can go and pick them back up.
I hope this helps.
Chris
Jan 23, 2019 at 6:27 am
Kendra says
Jan 14, 2019 at 3:58 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 14, 2019 at 6:44 pm
shannon Durbin says
Jan 12, 2019 at 10:02 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 13, 2019 at 4:30 am
Sid says
What if the affirmation was filled out as single but should have been filled out as divorced.
Thankyou.
Jan 11, 2019 at 8:52 pm
Seb says
MFA rely on the documents you present from the Embassy.
Jan 13, 2019 at 9:10 am
Smarsh says
Myself and partner will be getting married in Thailand this year. We are waiting for an appointments to come avaiae to book at the British embassy for the first step. Few questions:
Can we make an appointment at the Thai Ministory of Foreign Affairs? Or will we be seen quite easily? I.e. they don’t have a cap on how many couples they will see per day?
Can we get our affirmation of marriage and passports translated into Thai before we have had the english version authorises by the British Embassy? (This might speed up the process)
We have 4 full working days to get this all done will this be enough time?
Thank you for all you help.
S
Jan 09, 2019 at 6:08 am
Seb says
Secondly you must go to the British Embassy with an appointment before you do translating. This will ensure the documents are filled in correctly.
I would advise you to go to the MFA after a morning appointment at the Embassy and do the translating there. (Any problems can be easily sorted.) 2nd floor, top of stairs and some good agents are there in front of you.
You will not get the documents back from MFA normally for 2 days. That means 2 trips there I am afraid.
Details above from The ThailandLife.
Jan 09, 2019 at 2:37 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 24, 2018 at 5:38 pm
Harry says
Note for UK....the affirmation if you are divorced has to include the salary you have each month and the amount you pay for child support. Witness ID passport for a Farango and ID card for Thai lady friend.
The MFA at C W... we used the second floor, top of escalator translation office, express. They translated and presented to MFA, collected and called me to collect three days later. Saving time and effort but an extra cost of 700.
We returned to Samui unmarried. Not happy. Monday we went to Samui Nathon office, walked in nd was married in less than 30mins. No interpreter, just witnesses and a cost of 240 baht. Bargain.
Dec 26, 2018 at 11:10 am
Carl says
Dec 27, 2018 at 10:10 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 28, 2018 at 4:51 pm
Leonard Levine says
Dec 24, 2018 at 12:07 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 24, 2018 at 5:34 pm
Jaap says
Cheers,
Jaap
Dec 24, 2018 at 1:09 am
Bruce Boivin says
Jan 04, 2019 at 2:49 pm
Joe says
Dec 20, 2018 at 12:25 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 20, 2018 at 7:04 pm
Harry says
We did all this week, entered at 8-15 and faced the same. We also learnt that a Thai couple provide someone to que and she inteeprets, all for 4500 baht.
Approached ten others, all had no mayor available to sign off, due to restructuring.
Also....Bangrak need more info on your affirmation than the UK embassy state in their template. Lots and all show stoppers.
Its a sham. Some want one thing, others different things.
I live in Samui, it was an expensive non marry process. Luckily, i have been livingbwith my wife on samui many years, we have a business etc. We can go there Monday with no problems. At this stage anyhiw all looks sweet.
It needs to be widely told Bang Rak is no longer in favour of farangs. They had their day.
Fobbed off with a very unhelpful smirk.
All.incl MFA in this guide works. After that????????
Dec 21, 2018 at 3:17 pm
Joe says
Dec 21, 2018 at 7:02 pm
Harry says
Dec 23, 2018 at 5:01 pm
Joe says
Dec 24, 2018 at 6:27 pm
Joe says
Dec 25, 2018 at 3:28 pm
Seb says
Dec 26, 2018 at 9:08 am
Gary says
My Australian Embassy Statutory Declaration and certified passport copy needed an online appointment a week or so prior. Paid upon completion, just over $140 AUD. Never mind, it's a once off cost.
Translation was carried out by small business called Express Translation Service and Travel (when looking directly at Language Express school at Ploenchit BTS, it is a few shops down along the right hand soi. They are friendly, facilitative and thorough, passing the two translations on to other staff members to check (and also giving me blanks with their letterhead upon so that we could do translation corrections if needed online, but their translation was good). Cost 500b each translation, in a two hour, late in the day time-frame. I was grateful for their service and would recommend.
You can do the whole process yourself. Go to Thai Consular early in the day to submit (as per Peter's instructions above) 2 x originals and 2 x translations = 4 pages at 200b each. Total 800b. As mentioned same day service only for Thai citizens at present, so you need to come back in 4 days to collect. Which you might do with a smile and kop khun kap to respectfully show your thanks, as they are dealing with us difficult foreigners all day.
An Amphur Office in Issan Province, saw us spend 2 hours and a final signature from an official man who came from upstairs at the last moment to sign. Yes, you'll be asked for a 'donation'. Perhaps 800b and 200b for an extra witness we needed would have been appropriate, but we ended up paying 500b ($20 AUD) more than we should have, which we thought upon reflection was a bit too much as it all disappeared quickly into a drawer. But look, it's quite a small amount in the greater scheme of things and we walked away with two lovely certificates after 2 hours and 3 people's help with a lot of paperwork they had to action for us.
That's about all, easy to do, I needed 7-10 days in Bangkok as it was over a weekend with a public holiday thrown in. Good luck with it all
Dec 17, 2018 at 3:15 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 17, 2018 at 8:21 pm
Gary says
Interesting she did mention what another recent writer here mentioned that my Australian Embassy docs would have to be sent back and checked. Sigh. This is after Thai Foreign Affairs signature verification of both Australian documents. The elaborate Thai Foreign Affairs seals would be almost impossible to fake, and so on that basis alone I think, they could see legitimacy.
But is is in congruence with someone else here who recently talked about counterfeiting problems. Insert another sigh here.
Importantly, what we should all note, is that Thai Foreign Affairs legalization is actually the Thai government's recognition of your Embassy's signatories. Anyway I know little except it's always good to have a forum like this that helps you track legal requisites and complete the process with a smile, flowers and a good coffee. Best wishes
Dec 18, 2018 at 11:05 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 18, 2018 at 6:57 pm
khalid says
thanks for such a nice information,please tell me one thing ,i am from pakistan and my fiance is from mexico we are getting married soon in thailand as the process you told ,
i want to know that is this marriage will be recognized or acceptable in mexico ?
and after complete the marriage process can i apply visa of mexico to go with my wife ,and which kind of visa i have to apply.
thanks
Dec 13, 2018 at 3:32 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 13, 2018 at 8:00 pm
Robert says
Apparently there has been cases of document fraud, so they now want to sent the documents fourth and back to the embassy for confirmation, giving a waiting time of 2-4 weeks!
My gf and I had been told that it was no necessary to make appointments, so we went today, Dec 12 (our anniversary too), and just learned this. Clearly disappointing of course. We called a few other amphurs which told the same. We ended up in Siracha where we convinced them to do it tomorrow, Dec 13, instead. Apparently the mayor can decide whether documents need further checking or not... Makes very little sense and is greatly frustrating when having done all the preparations.
So wherever you're going, call and make an appointment and check the procedures and document requirements well in advance. It's Thailand and may greatly differ from place to place.
Regarding legalization, I had no problem doing express service on Dec. 6. I recommend the new office at Khlong Toei MRT.
Only thing to note: they require you to have 10 days left on your visa! This was not stated anywhere and took me by surprise at the Chaeng Wattana office the day before, when I also went to extend my visa - with 9 days left... ^^
Dec 12, 2018 at 6:38 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 12, 2018 at 8:04 pm
Mark says
I am going to the Brittish embassy tomorrow for the affirmation stamp.. About the new office at MRT Klong toei. Did you see any translation services about?..and can you confirm you can do the whole legalization process there so you don't have to visit Chang Wattana...
Cheers Mark
Dec 13, 2018 at 11:31 am
Joe says
Dec 16, 2018 at 3:16 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 16, 2018 at 8:27 pm
Seb says
Dec 17, 2018 at 9:16 am
Joe says
Dec 17, 2018 at 9:11 pm
Harry says
Dec 16, 2018 at 10:47 pm
John says
Dec 11, 2018 at 9:41 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 18, 2018 at 7:56 pm
Seb says
Dec 18, 2018 at 7:59 pm
Gary says
Dec 21, 2018 at 8:29 am
Snow says
Recommend to anyone getting translations to do it at the Consular as if there’s any mistakes you can get them changed then and there and not have to go back to where you got it translated in a Bangkok. In the consular, on the second floor they charge 500baht per affirmation & 400baht per passport.
Whilst waiting for your translations, go to the far right and get TWO copies of the page with your visa stamp in it & 2 copies of your passport. Once translations are done - take everything to 3rd floor and hand in to desk. If you don’t have everything done before they’ll send you off to do it without telling you you need 2 copies of the stamp and you’ll be running back & forth. We’ve been told to return in 2 working days.
They’re pretty unhelpful in there - good luck!
Dec 10, 2018 at 2:57 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 10, 2018 at 4:00 pm
Gary says
Hope this helps, regards
Dec 10, 2018 at 4:54 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 10, 2018 at 6:04 pm
Gary says
Dec 17, 2018 at 4:28 pm
Harry says
The affirmation template, you complete before you go and MUST have a copy on your email in case they want to change something. I did that, BUT they have only two pc available at consular, you may have to Q. Also, and very important, if you have two factor authentication on your mobile, DISABLE it before you go so you can access your email in the consular section. Your not allowed to carry your mobile.
Also, and very important, you need a certified copy of your passport picture page as shown above. Total cost, affirmation and passport, 3300baht.
At MFA you advertised, I used the left hand translation service, for 900baht they will do the translations. You then can have them present to MFA for the stamp, an extra 700baht. I chose this, after all you have to pay 400baht at MFA. There was NO EXPRESS AVAILABE. I was told to come back in two working days, to the translation girl. It makes sense really, I don’t have to Q at MFA and they can fix translations in your absence if they get it wrong. They did ask for a translation of my name, I had that on my work permit. Total cost 1700baht.
Total for a Brit is 5000 baht using this service above. I heard a few horror stories outside the embassy, some people using agents at great expense and some going it solo but having huge translation costs and taxi fares running in thousands too. I played it safe, if the girl at the translation can fix it, let her fix it. They know the personalities.
Next step the registration next week sometime in Bangkok. At my leisure.
Great guide.
Dec 15, 2018 at 9:31 am
James Major says
Can Cambodia citizens marry in Thailand? And do they need to get affirmation to marry from Cambodia. Or the Cambodian embassy in Bangkok.
Thanks for your help :)
Dec 10, 2018 at 12:09 am
Gary says
Dec 07, 2018 at 11:48 am
Martin says
regards Martin
Dec 05, 2018 at 8:52 pm
Seb says
Dec 06, 2018 at 8:51 am
B Cole says
Dec 01, 2018 at 2:37 pm
Seb says
Dec 02, 2018 at 8:49 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 03, 2018 at 1:22 am
Joaozinho Martins says
I am from India and plan to get married to a Filipina in Thailand in the first week of January 2019.
From your above post, I've come to know as to what documents we need to marry in Thailand. Thanks for it.
I just want to know if you can arrange an Agent to help me in the entire Marriage Registration Process and his fees for the same.
I also would like to know if you can recommend inexpensive hotels in Bangkok where I can stay.
Hoping to hear from you and thanking you,
Sincerely,
Joaozinho Martins
Nov 30, 2018 at 2:04 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 03, 2018 at 1:32 am
Claire says
My Partner and I are planning on getting married in Thailand in March 2020. We were planning on flying into Bangkok and doing all of the steps in the dance that your article covers - giving ourselves three days and then moving onto Phuket to meet with family and friends and have a ceremony, etc.
I've done all of my research and am pretty much ready to book the Ceremony and Reception but need agree on a date with the hotel. I was going to base this on landing in Bangkok on possibly a Monday then flying to Phuket on a Wednesday evening / Thursday morning. I thought it best to see how easy it is to get an appointment with the British Embassy first - to see if they only allow appointments on certain days, etc and work the dates out from there however when you try to book an appointment online - there are only two dates available next week (Monday and Friday) and other than that every day is showing as unavailable up to April 2020! Is it normal that it is so difficult to get an appointment? Without knowing what dates we would be able to have all of this sorted in Bangkok it makes it seem impossible to book a date for the wedding and internal flights, etc?
Nov 29, 2018 at 11:21 pm
Seb says
The slower route would mean an early appointment at the Embassy then straight to the MFA. Get the translations done and then present it all as stated in the article from thethailandlife. Then this can be collected on the day they specify.
Looking at your schedule, it would be arrive Monday, the Embassy Tuesday and the MFA Express Service on Wednesday then fly to Phuket that evening or Thursday.
Nov 30, 2018 at 9:27 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 03, 2018 at 1:43 am
Claire says
Thanks for your response. Sorry, my mistake - we would actually be landing Sunday evening so we would be able to start the process on Monday morning, which would then give us time.
My main concern is that we book the flights only to find that there aren’t any appointments available at the embassy on the Monday.
I guess it’s a risk that we will have to take and keep our fingers crossed that if we check the website for the weeks or two leading up to our departure from England that we will be able to get an appointment on the Monday morning.
Thanks again
Claire
Dec 04, 2018 at 2:39 am
Seb says
Dec 04, 2018 at 9:02 am
Diane says
Joanne
Nov 29, 2018 at 10:43 pm
Seb says
you followed the correct process in the country where you got married
it would be allowed under UK law
From http://www.gov.uk/marriage-abroad
Nov 30, 2018 at 2:41 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 03, 2018 at 1:45 am
Daphne says
Nov 29, 2018 at 12:15 pm
BILAL KHALID says
my name is BILAL i am pakistani national and my fiancee belongs from mexico, next month we both have to go thailand for marriage ,is this is the same process we should have to follow ,and same all these documents,or some other kind of documents we have to need ,please guide us
thanks
Nov 28, 2018 at 5:19 am
Seb says
You will need to go to the Pakistan Embassy at 31 Soi Sukhumvit 3, Khwaeng Khlong Toei Nuea, Khet Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand.
For your fiancee, she will need to go to the Mexican Embassy at 21/60-62 S Sathorn Rd, Khwaeng Thung Maha Mek, Khet Sathon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10120, Thailand.
The following applies, "Foreigners who are wishing to marry shall appear in person with their respective passports and arrival card at their Embassy in Thailand to complete declarations attesting that he/ she is single and free to marry in accordance with Thai Law and the registration shall be effected by a Thai Diplomatic or Consular Officer". This is the Affirmation of Marriage that will be required by the MFA.
Nov 30, 2018 at 2:56 pm
Snow says
Nov 27, 2018 at 10:09 am
Seb says
Otherwise there are a number of companies very close to the BTS at Phloen Chit.
Nov 29, 2018 at 4:43 pm
DRH says
Nov 22, 2018 at 2:02 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 22, 2018 at 7:22 pm
Rayne says
Nov 21, 2018 at 5:37 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 21, 2018 at 6:34 pm
Mukesh says
Nov 21, 2018 at 5:10 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 21, 2018 at 6:33 pm
Ren says
Nov 19, 2018 at 12:46 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 19, 2018 at 7:51 pm
Sarah says
Dec 11, 2018 at 5:50 pm
Snow says
Is the express delivery defiantly available again?!
Again, thank you for the up to date information and answering everyones questions, this is invaluable info when trying to arrange getting married in Thailand over a short period of time!
Nov 16, 2018 at 10:12 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 16, 2018 at 7:24 pm
Snow says
Nov 23, 2018 at 7:28 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 23, 2018 at 7:21 pm
John MacDonald says
Nov 14, 2018 at 2:38 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 14, 2018 at 7:44 pm
Stan says
We have done all things translated and stamped and intended to get married in Bang rak office, but someone told my wife that she needs at least one witness from her family , and she doesn't have any in BKK. Is it possible to get married in some other office without bringing family member?
Nov 14, 2018 at 12:22 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 14, 2018 at 7:49 pm
Tom says
Nov 11, 2018 at 1:53 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 11, 2018 at 4:14 am
shahin d says
Nov 10, 2018 at 5:50 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 11, 2018 at 4:28 am
Mozelle Matias says
My fiance and I are planning to get register our marriage at an Amphur in Koh Samui. I just wanted to get confirmation that the same steps above apply if we fly to Koh Samui and register our marriage there? Also, what is the approximate fee for registering our marriage?
Thank you in advance!
Nov 09, 2018 at 11:34 pm
Matt says
First I'd like to start by saying THANK YOU for this invaluable information! This is really a big help.
On to my question - can I get married to a Thai girl while on a visa exemption? I'm an American citizen.
I was in Penang the last few days to get a new tourist visa, but I made the stupid mistake of not checking Malaysian holidays and the embassy was closed today. I had already purchased flights back to BKK, and so for the first time I entered on an exemption.
My fiance and I would like to get married next month (I should be able to get the 30 day extension. No negative mark in my passport), but now I'm worried about my lack of visa status. Any insight you can offer would be greatly appreciated.
Kind regards,
Matt
Nov 07, 2018 at 8:33 am
Mikaelian says
Nov 05, 2018 at 4:14 pm
Brit in Taiwan says
Nov 07, 2018 at 12:19 pm
Nusrat Islam says
2. Is it possible to arrange for testimony by your agency? As we do not have friends/families over there.
3. How many days do we have to spend to to get married and to get the registration papers.
4. Can you give me an idea about the total cost of this procedure?
Nov 05, 2018 at 10:45 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 05, 2018 at 4:26 pm
Ehab Mohamed Elsaedy says
I'm Egyptian Muslim and my fiancee from phillpins and she's Christian we have plan to marry in Thailand next April, 2019 .
We need to know what's the requirements for us and what's the documents need from every one .
Best regards
Nov 05, 2018 at 3:56 am
John says
I intend to fly to Thailand next week to marry my Thai girlfriend.
I am a bit confused, do I need a visa as well as my passport?
Oct 31, 2018 at 7:37 pm
Seb says
Oct 31, 2018 at 7:46 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 31, 2018 at 7:50 pm
John says
Thay will not stamp our documents by express anymore. It takes 2 days. Once we get them then we can get married. I have to fly back before that date and and my affirmation is only valid for month of visit so I will have to pay and do all again. 😔 you cannot get married in one day.
Nov 08, 2018 at 2:42 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 08, 2018 at 5:56 pm
David says
I already have my single prove and copy of my passport certified by my embassy and now I'll do the translation but happens the my documents have one part in english and one part in Spanish. I already ask in the translations offices near by the embassies (around Wireless Road) and most of them only translate the english part . So, the question is if anyone has this kind of trouble? or someone knows where can I go to translate my documents at reasonable price? Or if I can just translate the english part and show up at the MOFA to legalised?.
Thank you in advance!
Oct 30, 2018 at 2:23 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 30, 2018 at 5:52 pm
Leonard Levine says
Oct 30, 2018 at 1:06 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 30, 2018 at 5:54 pm
Michele Bolton says
Oct 28, 2018 at 10:12 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 29, 2018 at 6:01 pm
MM says
The dutch documents dont need to be translated nor legalized before taking them to dutch embassy. An appointment is required at dutch embassy and if you go in morning you can collect the affidavit in afternoon. So it's not really feasible to go mfa on same day. It's faster to go early morning next day to mfa and use express service.
Oct 28, 2018 at 5:44 pm
Bruce Boivin says
The express is available except the paperwork has to be submitted before 10am.
They requested a copy of my current stamp in passport plus the TM6 immigration stamp.
A new requirement ( 2 weeks old ) they want to know the person your marrying and a copy of her ID card. Her driver’s license or passport were not sufficient.
Needless to say she didn’t have her ID card so the whole process is taking longer than a day.
Oct 25, 2018 at 12:26 pm
Lia says
I want to ask, do we need to have been to thailand before to be able to get married there? Because my embassy there said that one of the requirements is that we have been to thailand before using our current visa.
Thanks
Oct 23, 2018 at 7:39 pm
Laszlo Kurtzcyzk says
Which documents exactly do you get after the marriage? I've seen references to "Kho Ro 2" and "Kho Ro 3".
Another question that is important for me: which of my details will be in the marriage certificate, which is the document I need to present to the UK embassy to apply for a spouse visa? Does it contain nationality and / or passport number? Thanks, Laszlo
Oct 21, 2018 at 2:38 am
TheThailandLife says
Your name will be on the marriage certificate, your date of birth, nationality, passport number will be on the memorandum.
A spouse visa application will require an English translated version of both documents. It also requires a lot of other documentation. It is a very detailed application.
Nov 02, 2018 at 3:05 am
Brit in Taiwan says
Nov 07, 2018 at 12:03 pm
Carlo Montana says
Does anyone have experience with the Italian embassy in Bangkok? It seems that they give the Affirmation in both English and Thai language, in that case, I believe that I'd just need to translate my passport and that could be done by my girlfriend before I arrive. My issue is that I plan to arrive on 9th December (Sunday) and start the process on Monday 10th December. However, I can only take 1 week holiday. The Italian embassy says they give the Affirmation back in 2 to 3 days and if the express service in the MFA is no longer available, then it could take the duration to 6 to 7 working days. I will try to extend the trip and depart on Wednesday 19th morning, but this means that starting on Monday 10th I would need to get it all done by Tuesday 18th (including marriage in the Amphoe.
Many thanks for any feedback/tips
Also: does anyone have any guidance or step-by-step on how to apply for the EEA Family Permit to the UK once married?
Oct 20, 2018 at 2:12 am
Robert Hol says
I hope to hear a answer. A thank you in advance
Oct 17, 2018 at 12:44 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 17, 2018 at 6:01 pm
Robert Hol says
Nov 02, 2018 at 6:30 pm
Gareth says
Oct 16, 2018 at 8:59 am
TheThailandLife says
Oct 18, 2018 at 5:50 pm
Len says
Oct 15, 2018 at 11:08 am
TheThailandLife says
Oct 15, 2018 at 5:06 pm
Richie says
Oct 12, 2018 at 1:32 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 12, 2018 at 5:35 pm
Lost in Thai says