Thailand has long been a top destination for travelers, but recently, it has become a beacon of hope and celebration for LGBTQ+ couples. If you’ve ever wondered how to get married in Thailand for LGBT foreigners, the answer is a resounding “yes.” The country has made a historic stride in legalizing same-sex marriage, opening up a world of possibilities for couples looking to tie the knot in a beautiful and accepting environment. This new legal landscape not only allows for beautiful ceremonies but also provides legal recognition and rights for same-sex couples, making it a compelling choice for a destination wedding.
What LGBTQ+ Foreigners Need to Know Before Getting Married in Thailand
- Eligibility Requirements: To be legally married in Thailand, both you and your partner must meet certain requirements. This includes being at least 20 years old. You must also not be related by blood or adoption and cannot be currently married to another person.
- Documentation from Your Home Country: A crucial step for foreigners is obtaining an Affirmation of Freedom to Marry from your respective embassy in Thailand. This document confirms that there are no legal obstacles to your marriage. It is essential to check with your embassy for their specific requirements and procedures.
- Legalization and Translation: Once you have the necessary documents, they must be translated into Thai by a certified translator and then legalized by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This process ensures your documents are valid for legal use in Thailand.
- Marriage Registration: The final step to a legally recognized marriage is to register at a local district office (Amphur or Khet). Both partners must be present, and need two witnesses.
Getting to Know the ‘Marriage Equality Act’
Passed in June 2024, taking effect in January 2025, Thailand’s landmark “Marriage Equality Act” has transformed the legal landscape for same-sex couples. This legislation grants them the same rights and responsibilities as heterosexual couples.
- Recognition of Same-Sex Marriages: Your union is now fully recognized under Thai law, offering the same legal standing as any other marriage.
- Adoption Rights: Same-sex couples have the same rights as heterosexual couples to jointly adopt children.
- Spousal Benefits: The law extends access to a range of spousal benefits, including health insurance, pension benefits, and other rights previously reserved for opposite-sex couples.
- Inheritance Rights: The law ensures that same-sex spouses have equal rights to inheritance, providing financial security and protection.
- Non-Discrimination: The legislation strengthens protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation, ensuring equal treatment in all aspects of life.
How to Get Married in Thailand for LGBT Foreigners: Step-by-Step
Here are steps on how to get married in Thailand for LGBT foreigners:
Step 1: Arrive in Thailand and Visit Your Embassy
Upon your arrival, the first thing to do is visit your respective embassy in Bangkok. You will need to obtain an Affidavit of Freedom to Marry, which declares that you are single and free to marry.
Step 2: Translate and Legalize Your Documents
Take the affirmations from your embassies to a certified translation service to have them translated into Thai. After translation, submit the documents to the Thai Department of Consular Affairs in Bangkok.
Step 3: Register Your Marriage
With all your paperwork in order, you can now visit any local district office (Amphur) in Thailand to register your marriage. The registrar will review your documents, and once approved, you will receive your official Thai marriage certificate.
Koh Samui: A Dream Wedding Destination
With the legalities of marriage in place, you can now focus on planning your dream wedding. If you are in love with beaches and stunning views, a wedding in Koh Samui offers not just a truly magical experience.To make your special day flawless, consider working with a professional planner. Contact Samui Dream Weddings to help you navigate the process and create the perfect celebration!