Divorce registration in Thailand for foreigners is a process that many expats are unfamiliar with — but it is more straightforward than most people expect. Whether you were married in Thailand or abroad, this guide explains exactly what is required to legally register a divorce in Thailand and what documents you will need.
Is a Thai Divorce Legally Valid Abroad?
A divorce registered at a Thai district office (Amphoe) is legally recognised in Thailand. Whether it is automatically recognised in your home country depends on your nationality and your country's laws. In most cases, you will need to present the Thai divorce certificate — with a certified translation — to your home country's authorities for it to take effect there.
Two Types of Divorce in Thailand
1. Uncontested (Administrative) Divorce
If both parties agree to the divorce and there are no disputes over assets, custody, or other matters, you can register a divorce directly at the district office. This is the fastest and simplest option.
Both parties must appear in person at the Amphoe with two witnesses. The divorce is registered on the same day.
2. Contested (Court) Divorce
If one party does not consent, or if there are disputes over property, children, or financial matters, the divorce must go through the Thai family court. This process is significantly longer and requires legal representation.
This guide focuses primarily on the uncontested administrative divorce, which is the most common process for expat couples.
Documents Required for Divorce Registration
For Foreign Nationals
- Original passport (both parties)
- Thai marriage certificate (Kor Ror 3) — the original certificate issued when you registered your marriage in Thailand
- Certified Thai translation of any foreign-language documents
- Two witnesses with valid identification
If Previously Divorced or Widowed
If either party has been previously married, you will also need:
- Previous divorce certificate or death certificate of former spouse
- Certified Thai translation of the above documents
If Married Abroad
If your marriage was registered outside Thailand, you will need:
- Your foreign marriage certificate
- Certified Thai translation of the marriage certificate
- Possibly legalisation or apostille of the foreign marriage certificate (depending on the country of issue)
Step-by-Step: The Divorce Registration Process
Step 1: Confirm Both Parties Agree
Uncontested divorce registration requires the full and voluntary consent of both parties. Both must appear in person at the district office — there is no proxy or remote registration.
Step 2: Gather and Translate Your Documents
Collect all required documents and have any foreign-language documents certified translated into Thai. Our team in Pattaya can prepare certified Thai translations of passports, marriage certificates, and any other required documents, typically within 1–2 business days.
Step 3: Visit the District Office
Both parties and two witnesses visit the Bang Lamung District Office (for Pattaya residents) together. The registration officer will review all documents and record the divorce.
The process at the district office typically takes 1–2 hours.
Step 4: Receive Your Divorce Certificate
The district office issues a Thai divorce certificate (Kor Ror 6) on the same day. This is your official proof of divorce in Thailand.
Using Your Thai Divorce Certificate Abroad
If you need to use your Thai divorce certificate in your home country, you will typically need:
- A certified English translation of the Thai divorce certificate
- Possibly notarisation by a Notarial Services Attorney
- Possibly legalisation by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs (apostille or full legalisation, depending on your country)
We can assist with all of these steps from our office in Pattaya.
Recognising a Foreign Divorce in Thailand
If you were divorced abroad and need that divorce recognised in Thailand — for example, to register a new marriage in Thailand — you will need:
- Your foreign divorce certificate
- A certified Thai translation
- Possibly notarisation and MFA legalisation
The Thai district office will review the foreign divorce certificate and its translation before allowing you to register a new marriage.
Common Questions
Can one party register the divorce without the other?
No. For an uncontested administrative divorce, both parties must appear in person at the district office. If one party refuses, the divorce must go through the family court.
How long does the process take?
For an uncontested divorce where all documents are ready, the district office registration is completed on the same day. Document translation takes 1–2 business days. If MFA legalisation is required, add 3–5 business days.
What if the marriage was registered abroad?
You will need a certified Thai translation of your foreign marriage certificate, and possibly legalisation, before the district office will process the divorce. Contact us to confirm what is required for your specific country.
Do we need a lawyer?
For an uncontested administrative divorce, a lawyer is not required. However, if there are any disputes or complications, legal advice is strongly recommended.
How We Can Help
Pattaya Certified Translation handles all document translation and notarisation required for divorce registration in Thailand. We prepare certified Thai translations of passports, marriage certificates, and foreign divorce documents, and can advise on whether MFA legalisation is required for your nationality.
Contact us for a free consultation — our office is located in Pratamnak, Pattaya, and we serve clients of all nationalities.