Is Thailand the next big LGBTQ wedding destination? Insiders think so

With its legalisation of gay marriage, there is growing interest in holding LGBTQ weddings in Thailand. Insiders expect a gradual increase

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Couple Apiwat Porsch Apiwatsayree, 48, and Sappanyoo Arm Panatkool, 37, attend a Pride parade to celebrate after Thailand’s passing of the marriage equality bill. Wedding planners say it could help make it a top LGBTQ wedding destination. Photo: Reuters

Published: 7:15am, 19 Nov 2024

On September 24, Thailand celebrated the landmark passage of a marriage equality bill. The legislation, which goes into effect in January 2025, will solidify Thailand’s reputation as a progressive and inclusive destination.

Wedding organisers and planners around the globe are already taking note, including Next Chapter LGBT, which has been helping Hong Kong LGBTQ couples tie the knot in remote ceremonies conducted by registered officiants overseas since 2018.

Company co-founder Kurt Tung says the legislation, which makes Thailand the third Asian jurisdiction to recognise same-sex marriage after Taiwan and Nepal, gives Thai couples the option to marry in person without having to travel.

“We’ve been receiving more inquiries from hopeful couples looking to be wed in Thailand, but in order to proceed, we still have to wait for the bill to pass and for more details to be confirmed.”

An LGBTQ parade during Bangkok Pride in 2024. New legislation makes Thailand the third Asian jurisdiction to recognise same-sex marriage after Taiwan and Nepal. Photo: Shutterstock

There are too many unknowns at this stage, Tung says, from “how regional officials will execute the law” to whether same-sex marriage registrations will be as legally binding globally as those of heterosexual couples.