Drafting a Prenuptial Agreement in Thailand

Marriage is a major life decision that carries not only emotional significance but also important legal and financial consequences. In Thailand, as in many countries, couples can safeguard their financial interests and clarify expectations before entering into marriage through a prenuptial agreement. Known in Thai law as a “contract made before marriage”, a prenuptial agreement can provide peace of mind, prevent future disputes, and ensure fairness in the event of divorce or separation.

This article explores the legal framework, key requirements, and practical steps in drafting a prenuptial agreement in Thailand.

Legal Basis for Prenuptial Agreements in Thailand

Prenuptial agreements in Thailand are governed by the Thai Civil and Commercial Code (CCC). Under Section 1465, a prenuptial agreement must be made in writing and signed by both parties in the presence of at least two witnesses. Most importantly, it must be registered at the same District Office (Amphur or Khet) where the marriage itself is registered.

If a prenuptial agreement is not properly registered, it will not be legally enforceable. This registration requirement is one of the most important aspects to remember when preparing such a contract in Thailand.

Purpose of a Prenuptial Agreement

The main purpose of a prenuptial agreement is to define property ownership and financial responsibilities between the spouses. It is not meant to address personal issues like household chores or lifestyle obligations, which are not legally enforceable. Instead, it focuses on:

• Clarifying ownership of personal and marital property.

• Establishing rules for managing joint finances.

• Protecting assets acquired before marriage.

• Determining how debts will be handled.

• Reducing potential disputes in the event of divorce or death.

Property Classification under Thai Law

To understand the value of a prenuptial agreement, couples must first understand how Thai law classifies property:

1. Sin Suan Tua (Personal Property)

   • Property owned before marriage.

   • Personal items, such as clothing or tools used for a profession.

   • Property received as an inheritance or gift during marriage.

   This property remains the exclusive possession of the original owner.

2. Sin Somros (Marital Property)

   • Property acquired during the marriage (except gifts or inheritance).

   • Income earned by either spouse during the marriage.

   • Property purchased together after marriage.

   Sin somros is considered jointly owned by both spouses and will normally be divided equally if divorce occurs.

A well-drafted prenuptial agreement can clearly distinguish which assets should remain personal property and how marital property will be managed.

Key Requirements for a Valid Prenuptial Agreement in Thailand

For a prenuptial agreement to be valid and enforceable under Thai law, the following conditions must be met:

1. Written Form – The agreement must be in writing. Oral agreements are not recognized.

2. Signatures – Both spouses must sign the agreement, and two witnesses must also sign to validate it.

3. Registration – The prenuptial agreement must be filed and registered at the District Office at the same time the marriage is registered. If it is not registered, the agreement will have no legal effect.

4. Legal Content – The agreement must deal with property and financial matters. Clauses that contradict public order, morality, or Thai law will be void.

5. No Amendments After Marriage – Once the marriage is registered, the agreement cannot be changed except with court approval. This emphasizes the importance of careful drafting before the wedding.

Steps in Drafting a Prenuptial Agreement in Thailand

Step 1: Discuss Financial Expectations Openly

Both parties should have an honest discussion about their financial situation, assets, debts, and expectations. This ensures transparency and builds trust.

Step 2: Seek Legal Advice

Each party should consult with a lawyer familiar with Thai family law. For international couples, it is strongly advised that both spouses obtain independent legal advice to avoid claims of unfairness later.

Step 3: Identify and List Assets and Debts

Make a clear list of assets and debts each party is bringing into the marriage. Decide which assets should remain separate and how marital property will be managed.

Step 4: Draft the Agreement

A lawyer will draft the prenuptial agreement in accordance with Thai law. The agreement should be bilingual (Thai and English, or another relevant language) for international couples, ensuring both parties fully understand its contents.

Step 5: Review and Finalize

Both parties must carefully review the agreement. Any unclear or unfair terms should be revised.

Step 6: Sign with Witnesses

The agreement must be signed in front of at least two witnesses who also sign the document.

Step 7: Register with the District Office

On the day of marriage registration, submit the prenuptial agreement to the District Office along with the required marriage documents. The registrar will attach the prenuptial agreement to the marriage record.

Considerations for Foreigners

For couples involving a foreign spouse, additional issues should be considered:

• Translations – Official Thai translations of documents may be required.

• Recognition Abroad – While valid in Thailand, a Thai prenuptial agreement may not automatically be recognized overseas. Couples should check whether it complies with the laws of the foreign spouse’s home country.

• Independent Legal Counsel – It is advisable that each spouse, particularly the foreign spouse, obtains separate legal advice to avoid allegations of coercion or misunderstanding.

Benefits of Drafting a Prenuptial Agreement

1. Asset Protection – Ensures that personal property remains separate and protected.

2. Debt Protection – Shields one spouse from liability for the other’s debts.

3. Clarity in Property Division – Reduces disputes during divorce by clearly defining property rights.

4. Preservation of Family Wealth – Protects family businesses, inheritances, and other generational assets.

5. Financial Transparency – Encourages couples to openly discuss finances before marriage.

6. Peace of Mind – Both parties enter the marriage with clear expectations and reduced risk of future conflict.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Failing to Register the Agreement – Without registration at the District Office, the agreement is unenforceable.

• Including Invalid Clauses – Terms that contradict Thai law (e.g., waiving child support obligations) will be struck down.

• Not Seeking Independent Advice – Particularly for foreign spouses, independent legal advice is crucial to ensure fairness.

• Vague Wording – Ambiguous terms can lead to disputes and possible invalidation of the agreement.

Conclusion

Drafting a prenuptial agreement in Thailand is a prudent step for couples who wish to protect their financial interests and avoid future disputes. Governed by the Thai Civil and Commercial Code, such agreements must be carefully prepared, signed, and registered at the time of marriage to be legally valid.

For Thai nationals and foreigners alike, a prenuptial agreement offers clarity, fairness, and peace of mind. By openly discussing financial expectations, seeking proper legal guidance, and following the legal formalities, couples can ensure that their prenuptial agreement serves as a strong foundation for their marriage—providing protection and stability no matter what the future may bring.