Yes, cousin marriage is legal in Thailand but subject to strict familial and religious constraints under the Civil and Commercial Code, monitored by the Department of Provincial Administration. While not outright banned, marriages between first cousins require approval from local district offices and adherence to Buddhist or Islamic marriage rites, depending on the couple’s faith. The 2026 amendment to the Code’s marriage provisions tightens documentation requirements to prevent fraudulent unions.
Key Regulations for Cousin Marriage in Thailand
- Consanguinity Restrictions: Under Section 1445 of the Civil and Commercial Code, marriages between lineal ascendants/descendants or siblings are prohibited. First cousins may marry only if no direct lineal relationship exists, verified via family lineage records (Sor Por Kor 14).
- Religious Compliance: Buddhist couples must register marriages at local Wat (temple) offices, while Muslim couples require certification from Islamic committees under the Ministry of Culture. Failure to comply invalidates the union.
- Administrative Scrutiny: District offices (Khet in Bangkok, Amphoe elsewhere) conduct background checks to confirm no hidden prohibitions, such as prior marriages or undisclosed blood ties. The 2026 reforms mandate digital verification of family records via the e-Marriage system.