Understanding Thai Marriage Law
Marriage to a Thai national is a significant life decision that comes with both opportunities and legal complexities. Many foreigners enter into marriage without understanding what Thai law does and does not provide. The most dangerous misconception is that marriage grants foreigners property rights - it does not.
Thailand's Civil and Commercial Code (CCC) Book V governs marriage, including property division, prenuptial agreements, and marital duties. Understanding these provisions before marriage can protect both parties and prevent costly disputes later.
Can You Own Land Through a Thai Spouse? The Myth Debunked
The most persistent and dangerous myth in Thai expat circles. Marriage to a Thai citizen does NOT grant foreigners any land ownership rights. Learn what actually happens, the declaration requirement for married couples, and the serious risks of funding land purchases in your spouse's name.
Thailand Prenuptial Agreements: Protecting Assets Before Marriage
How prenuptial agreements work under Thai law, what can be covered, registration requirements for enforcement in Thai courts, and common provisions that protect foreign spouses. Also covers how Sin Sod can be addressed in prenups.
Sin Sod (Thai Dowry): Legal Status and What to Know
Understanding Sin Sod - the traditional Thai dowry payment from groom to bride's family. Is it legally enforceable? Can you get it back after divorce? Common expectations, amounts, and how to protect yourself legally.
Marriage Visa Extension
Complete guide to obtaining and maintaining a visa extension based on marriage to a Thai national. Financial requirements, documentation, process, and common pitfalls that lead to rejection.
Divorce and Child Custody in Thailand
Understanding divorce procedures, grounds for divorce, property division, and child custody arrangements for foreigners married to Thai nationals. Contested vs. uncontested divorces explained.
Inheritance Planning for Expats in Thailand
How Thai inheritance law works for foreigners, Thai wills vs. foreign wills, statutory heirs, estate taxes, and strategies to ensure your assets pass to your intended beneficiaries.
Getting Married in Thailand: Registration Process
Step-by-step guide to legally registering your marriage in Thailand. Document requirements, embassy affidavits, translation and legalization, and the district office (Amphur) process.
Critical Property Warning for Foreign Spouses
Marriage to a Thai national does NOT grant you any right to own land in Thailand. Land purchased in your Thai spouse's name belongs solely to them, regardless of who provided the funds. In divorce, you have no automatic claim to property titled in your spouse's name. Many foreigners have lost substantial investments this way. See our Land Ownership Myth Guide and Property Pillar for legal alternatives.