What is the process for changing your last name in Thailand for a UK citizen married to a Thai national?

Feb 18, 2024
10 months ago
Kailah **************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Does anyone know the process for changing your last name in Thailand (UK citizen). Been married to my Thai husband for a couple of years, I need to renew my passport soon anyway so would like to take his name. Is it possible to do in Thailand and is it complicated with visa/ work permit being in my maiden name? Or is it too much hassle/ best to do when I next go to the UK?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A UK citizen wishing to change their last name in Thailand after marriage can typically do so through the local Amphur office. The process involves presenting the marriage certificate to request a name change and obtaining a new ID card. Though it's viewed as a straightforward process in regions where the marriage is registered, individuals should be aware that it may affect visa and work permits if documents are under a maiden name. Some may find it easier to handle this change when they return to the UK, especially if they encounter complications.
Saran ***************
Go to a district office with your partner. Show them the marriage certificate and say you want to change your last name. That's it.
Kailah **************
ORIGINAL POSTER
I think it is different as I'm a British citizen.
John *********
I am a US citizen, my Thai fiancé (at the time) did all the work without my help to get passport and complete all the steps to get her fiancé visa. We went to US, married and then I changed my last name to her’s. I started at the driver’s license office and they pushed back hard. I simply stated that if they don’t help me then I will pursue discrimination based on gender. After a 3 minute huddle in the back office, they changed my last name. Then off to Social Security office to do the same. Then notify credit cards, banks and all.

Good luck. It helps to be knowledgeable, correct and assertive.

I under you are doing it in Thailand and I did it in USA, but I am hopeful my experience will give you the wings you need to fly.
Michael ********
I dont know the answer to that particular question but you probably qualify to apply for Thai citizenship.

Also i believe the answer to your question is on website. Follows the linnks Thai citizenship group
Graham ******
When I got married my Thai wife had her name change document done at the same time at the local Amphur who then also issued her new ID card. All very simple, at least it is in the Amphur where the marriage is registered..
Wylie *******
@Graham *****
I'd assume it's quite a different process for a Thai vs UK citizen. She likely needs to change her name in the UK first and get an updated passport before changing any thai IDs, work permits, etc.
Graham ******
@Wylie ******
Where were you married, UK or Thailand?
Kailah **************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Graham *****
Thailand
Robin ************
@Graham *****
is there any benefit (or reason not) to change her surname. We didn’t do it when we were married as everything including passport is in her maiden name but thinking about it. Any thoughts?
Graham ******
@Robin ***********
It's just a personal choice, there are privileges to being married (e.g. going through the Thai passport lane) and having the same surname is the simplest way of proving it (but not 100% proof)
Kailah **************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Graham *****
Purely personal choice, I got married in Thailand so didn't change my name at the time as seemed like so much hassle to get a new visa/ passport/ work permit and so on outide of the UK. I need to renew my passport soon anyway so thought if the process isn't too complicated then can do at the same time.
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