Muslim Marriage in Thailand
How to Register Your Marriage in Thailand as a Muslim and a Foreigner?
Marriage is a significant milestone in one’s life, and Thailand, known as the Land of Smiles, continues to be a popular choice for couples with diverse cultural backgrounds and religions. If you’re wondering how to register your marriage in Thailand as a Muslim and a foreigner, we’re here to provide you with all the necessary information and details to make the process easier and more straightforward.
What You Need to Know
Getting married in Thailand, whether you’re marrying another Muslim or a non-Muslim, is a simple and straightforward process. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind.
1. Central Islamic Council of Thailand: Every Muslim marriage needs to be conducted and registered at the Central Islamic Council of Thailand. It is advisable to schedule an appointment in advance as it may not be open every day and can get busy during peak hours.
2. Required Documents for Thai Females (Muslim by birth):
– Thai National ID
– House Registration (Tabien Baan)
– Name Change documents of your first name or surname
– Single/divorce certificate
– Photo ID on a white background wearing a hijab
3. Required Documents for Thai Females (Non-Muslim):
– Thai National ID
– House Registration (Tabien Baan)
– Name change documents of your first name or surname
– Conversion certificate (We can also arrange the conversion on the day of Nikah)
– Single/divorce certificate
– Photo ID on a white background wearing a hijab
Please note that for certain nationalities, the fiancé(e) will need a letter from her parents approving the marriage, which has to be given to the Imam.
4. Conversion to Islam: If a non-Muslim is marrying a Muslim, they are required to convert to Islam before the wedding. This process usually takes no more than 20 minutes. Once the conversion is complete, the marriage can take place.
5. Legalization of Marriage Documents: After the wedding, the Islamic marriage certificate and conversion certificate will undergo legalization at the Thai Foreign Affairs Department. Certain nationalities may require document attestation, which is mandatory for countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, and the UAE. You will need to visit your respective embassy to submit the documents.
Required documents for attestation include:
– Marriage document (Nikah)
– Conversion certificate (if applicable)
Requirements for Islamic Marriage in Thailand
1. Letter of Approval: If you are from an Islamic country, you will need to obtain a letter of approval for marriage abroad from your home country and have it certified by your embassy in Bangkok. Each country/embassy has its own set of rules and regulations, so make sure to check the details thoroughly with them.
2. Required Documents:
– Passport
– Divorce Certificate or Death Certificate (only for females, if applicable)
– Medical Certificate: Required for the female participant if divorced within 3 months. The certificate must affirm non-pregnancy status.
– ID Photos: 10 pieces of 1.5 x 1.5
Please note that some nationalities may require a letter of consent from your embassy to confirm your eligibility for marriage.
Islam Conversion for Non-Muslims
If the non-Muslim party wishes to marry a Muslim, they must convert to Islam before the marriage registration. The conversion procedure can be done in two ways:
1. Conversion in the Home Country: The non-Muslim person can complete the conversion process in their home country. They should obtain an Islamic conversion certificate, which needs to be brought to Thailand.
2. Conversion in Thailand: If the conversion cannot be done beforehand, the Islamic center in Thailand can assist with the conversion before the marriage registration. The center will issue a certificate upon successful conversion.
Conclusion
With a better understanding of how to register your Islamic marriage in Thailand as a foreigner, you can now start preparing for your special day. Make sure to have all the required documentation finalized and don’t forget to consult your embassy if you’re an expatriate from an Islamic country, as specific requirements may apply.
If you need any assistance or have further questions regarding registering your Islamic marriage in the Land of Smiles, feel free to contact Siam Legal. As a leading Thailand law firm with over 20 years of experience, we are here to provide prompt and effective legal services to ensure your success.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a non-Muslim marry a Muslim in Thailand?
Yes, a non-Muslim can marry a Muslim in Thailand. However, the non-Muslim party is required to convert to Islam before the wedding.
2. Do I need to schedule an appointment to register my Islamic marriage in Thailand?
Yes, it is recommended to schedule an appointment at the Central Islamic Council of Thailand in advance, as it may not be open every day and can get busy during peak hours.
3. What documents do I need to provide for a Muslim marriage in Thailand?
The required documents may vary depending on whether you are a Thai female (Muslim or non-Muslim) or a foreigner. Generally, you will need your identification documents, house registration, name change documents (if applicable), single/divorce certificate, and photo ID on a white background wearing a hijab.
4. How long does the conversion to Islam process take?
The conversion to Islam process usually takes no more than 20 minutes.
5. What is the process for legalizing marriage documents in Thailand?
After the wedding, the Islamic marriage certificate and conversion certificate will undergo legalization at the Thai Foreign Affairs Department. Certain nationalities may require document attestation, which needs to be done at the respective embassy.
