Child Support is a payment usually made by a non-custodial divorced parent as a legal obligation to provide for the financial care and costs of raising his or her minor child or children. Â A written agreement or a court order can settle these issues.
A Child Support Agreement is a written agreement between parents that sets out how much financial support will be provided for their child or children after separation.
It helps cover the everyday costs of raising a child, such as food, housing, clothing, education, medical expenses, and reasonable extra-curricular activities.
The agreement can also explain how and when payments will be made, such as monthly transfers or other agreed arrangements. Child support is usually paid on a regular basis, but parents may agree on a different payment method if appropriate.
Thai courts consider several factors, including:
Yes. Either parent may apply to the Family Court to increase, reduce, or terminate support if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as:
Parents have the obligation to provide for their children during their minority. It is parents' obligation to give them proper education, to look after them when they are in poor health and maintain them until they are capable of earning their own living.
As a general rule, support is payable until the child reaches 20 years of age, unless:
Yes. Child support and visitation rights are treated as separate matters under Thai law. A parent’s obligation to support their child does not depend on whether visitation is allowed or denied.
Parents are legally required to support their children until they reach the age of majority or become legally self-supporting. A non-custodial parent cannot refuse to pay support as a result of visitation problems.
If visitation is being unfairly denied, the proper remedy is to apply to the Family Court to enforce or amend visitation rights—not to stop support payments.
Under Thai law, a child born out of wedlock is considered the legitimate child of the mother. The biological father does not automatically have legal parental rights or obligations unless paternity is legally established.
This means a father is required to pay support only after he becomes the child’s legal father through the legitimation process.
Paternity (legitimation) may be established in any of the following ways:
If you are a single mother seeking support, or a father who needs to establish legal paternity, professional legal guidance can help protect both your rights and the child’s best interests. Our family law team can assist with child legitimation, support claims, and Family Court proceedings in Thailand.
Contact us today to discuss your situation and find out the best legal steps to take.
Legal Disclaimer
This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Child support matters depend on individual circumstances and court discretion.
Licensed Attorney-At-Law | Licensed Notarial Services Attorney, The Lawyers Council of Thailand
Legal Counselor, Central Juvenile and Family Court
Specializing in Contracts, Property, Corporate, and Family Matters
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