Registering a marriage in Thailand: steps, documents and translating the records afterwards
In short
A marriage is registered at any district (amphoe) or Bangkok khet office in Thailand. Both parties attend in person with identity documents and any witnesses the registrar requires. On completion the office issues the marriage register record (Kor Ror 2) and the marriage certificate (Kor Ror 3). To use them abroad, request a freshly issued copy and translate it to the standard the receiving authority sets — for Australian authorities, translations produced in Australia must come from a NAATI-certified translator.
Who this applies to
- • Two Thai nationals who need legal evidence of their marriage.
- • Couples planning to lodge a partner or dependent visa application abroad.
- • Anyone needing marriage records for inheritance, insurance, lending or welfare matters.
Documents to prepare
- • Thai national ID card for each party
- • House registration (some offices ask for a copy)
- • Evidence that any earlier marriage has ended, such as a divorce certificate or the death certificate of a former spouse
- • Witnesses with identity documents, in the number the registrar requires
Step by step
1. Confirm requirements with the district office
Document lists, witness numbers and appointment systems differ between offices. Call or check the office's published information before travelling.
2. Attend in person and register
Both parties sign before the registrar with witnesses present. Where one party cannot communicate in Thai, the registrar may require an interpreter.
3. Collect Kor Ror 2 and Kor Ror 3
The register record and the certificate are issued on completion. Check every spelling and date before leaving the counter.
4. Request a freshly issued copy for foreign use
Many authorities want a recently issued copy rather than an old photocopy. Order the copy close to the date you intend to lodge.
5. Translate to the receiving authority's standard
For Australian authorities, translations produced in Australia must come from a NAATI-certified translator; translations produced elsewhere must show the translator's full name and contact details.
Points to watch
- • A traditional ceremony has no legal effect until the marriage is registered at a district office.
- • Changing surname or title after marriage without updating the ID card, house registration and passport leaves inconsistent names across the file.
- • Assuming every district office asks for the same documents — requirements and witness numbers vary.
Frequently asked questions
Can we register at any district office?
As a general rule the parties may apply to the registrar at any district or khet office, not only the one covering their registered address. Some offices operate appointment systems or restricted service hours, so confirm with that office before travelling.
Do we have to change surname after marriage?
Thai law allows the couple to agree whether to take one spouse's surname or keep their own. If a name is changed, update the ID card, house registration and passport so every document in a foreign application matches.
Which document should we translate, Kor Ror 2 or Kor Ror 3?
Most applications are filed with the marriage certificate (Kor Ror 3). Where the authority asks for full registration detail, obtain the marriage register record (Kor Ror 2) as well. Follow the wording of the checklist you were given.
Is a marriage certificate alone enough for a partner visa?
Immigration authorities generally assess a broader body of relationship evidence — cohabitation, shared finances and ongoing communication. The marriage certificate is one part of that set.
Can I request a copy years later?
Yes. Copies are obtained from a district or khet office under the family registration rules of the Department of Provincial Administration. Bring your ID card; a representative acting for you needs a power of attorney in the prescribed form.
Related pages
Official source
Bureau of Registration Administration, Department of Provincial Administration
Content last reviewed: August 2026