How to Register a Prenuptial Agreement in Thailand
(Kor Ror 2 Filing Guide)
A prenuptial agreement in Thailand must be formally registered at the same time as the marriage. Under Section 1466 of the Thai Civil and Commercial Code, a prenup is only valid if it is recorded in the official marriage register (Kor Ror 2 – ทะเบียนสมรส) on the day of the marriage registration. Once the marriage is entered into the register without a prenup, the document can no longer be added and becomes legally ineffective.
Where the Prenup Is Registered
Prenuptial agreements are registered at the district office (Amphur/Khet) where the marriage is recorded. This is the same location where the Kor Ror 2 is created and where the marriage certificate (Kor Ror 3) is issued. The prenup is not filed separately, notarised, or court-approved at this stage only attached or entered into the marriage register.
Two Accepted Registration Methods
The law allows two registration formats:
1. Entry Written Directly in the Kor Ror 2
The registrar may write a short summary of the prenup directly in the remarks section of the Kor Ror 2. This method is quick but offers limited space and rarely includes complete schedules of assets. It is suitable only for short and simple agreements.
2. Full Agreement Attached to the Kor Ror 2
With longer or bilingual agreements (common where one spouse is a foreign national), the full signed prenup and schedules are physically attached to the Kor Ror 2 register. The registrar then notes that a prenuptial agreement has been attached. This option preserves detailed evidence of each spouse’s personal assets.
Why Registrar Practice May Differ
All registrars apply the same law, but individual district offices may handle the paperwork differently. Some prefer short entries; others routinely attach full bilingual agreements. Procedural variation reflects administrative discretion, not different legal rules.
Practical Filing Tips
- Contact the Amphur a few days before filing to confirm preferred format.
- Bring two or three signed identical sets of the prenup.
- Use bilingual Thai–English text and state which language prevails in case of discrepancy.
- Ensure signatures of both spouses and at least two witnesses appear on every page and schedule.
- Request an official stamped copy showing that the prenup was recorded or attached.
Optional Thai Cover Page
Some registrars appreciate a short cover page stating that the attached document is a prenuptial agreement to be registered with the Kor Ror 2. It does not replace the prenup but clarifies the filing request.
Official Legal Basis
- Civil and Commercial Code Sections 1465–1467
- Ministry of Interior Regulation on Family Registration B.E. 2541
- DOPA Registrar Manual: “คู่มือปฏิบัติงานทะเบียนครอบครัว”
- DOPA Circulars: มท 1412/37167 and มท 0309.3/ว 7674
- Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) Service Guide: Lists “สัญญาก่อนสมรส (ถ้ามี)” as marriage-registration documentation
Once properly filed, a prenup becomes part of the marriage record. It cannot be altered or cancelled after marriage without a court order recorded in the Kor Ror 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a prenup be filed after the marriage in Thailand?
No. If the prenup is not filed at the time of marriage registration, it is legally ineffective under Section 1466 CCC.
Does the prenup need to be in Thai?
It is recommended to prepare a bilingual Thai–English version. Registrars must be able to read the Thai portion.
Do both spouses need witnesses?
Yes. The agreement must be signed by both spouses and at least two witnesses on every page, including schedules.
Will the registrar read or approve every clause?
Usually no. Their responsibility is to verify formalities and record the filing, not to interpret or approve content.