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Domestic Violence Against a Foreigner
Legal protections, emergency resources, and steps for foreigners experiencing domestic violence in Thailand.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-01 · by Anglo Siam Law Editorial Team · How we research this topic
TL;DR
Domestic violence is addressed by the Domestic Violence Victims Protection Act B.E. 2550 (2007), supplemented by Penal Code provisions on assault and criminal threats and Civil and Commercial Code Book V provisions on marital obligations. Protection orders are available through the Juvenile and Family Court; emergency shelter is provided through Ministry of Social Development and Human Security facilities.
Overview
Legal protections, emergency resources, and steps for foreigners experiencing domestic violence in Thailand. This guide explains what to expect, your rights, and the steps you should take to protect yourself in this situation.
Immediate Steps to Take
If in immediate danger, call 191 (police) or 1300 (Social Development hotline)
Go to a safe location — emergency shelters are available through OSCC (One Stop Crisis Center) at public hospitals
Seek medical attention and request a medical certificate documenting injuries
File a police report — this is essential for legal protection orders
Contact your embassy for emergency consular assistance
Reach out to support organizations: Pavena Foundation (02-236-1951) or the Women and Men Progressive Movement Foundation
Do NOT return to the abuser without a safety plan
If children are involved, seek immediate legal advice about custody protection
Legal Considerations
Important legal points to understand about this situation:
The Domestic Violence Victim Protection Act B.E. 2550 (2007) protects all persons regardless of nationality
Courts can issue protection orders prohibiting the abuser from contact or approaching the victim
Domestic violence is a criminal offense — assault charges apply under the Criminal Code
Marital rape is recognized as a crime under Thai law (since 2007 amendment)
Victims can request police to remove the abuser from the shared residence
Free legal aid is available through the Legal Aid Institute and provincial bar associations
Immigration status does not affect the right to protection — undocumented persons are still protected
Custody and divorce proceedings can be expedited in domestic violence cases
Key Statutes
| Statute | Reference | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Violence Victims Protection Actพระราชบัญญัติคุ้มครองผู้ถูกกระทำด้วยความรุนแรงในครอบครัว | B.E. 2550 (2007) | Domestic violence framework, protection orders |
| Penal Code | B.E. 2499 (1956), §295, §297 | Assault, serious bodily harm |
| Civil and Commercial Code | B.E. 2477 (1934), §1516 | Domestic violence as ground for divorce |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Believing the perpetrator's family can pressure withdrawal — withdrawal is the victim's choice but the protection-order route can run independently.
- Not documenting injuries with medical examination — affects criminal and family-court proceedings.
- Returning to the home without a protection order in place.
- Treating financial dependence as a permanent obstacle — emergency social-services funds and shelter exist.
Embassy Assistance
What Your Embassy Can Do
Embassies can provide emergency consular assistance, help contact family abroad, provide shelter referrals, and assist with emergency travel documents if you need to leave the country. Many embassies have dedicated victim support officers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do I call in an emergency?
1300 — Social Assistance Centre (24-hour hotline); 191 — Police; 1669 — emergency medical services. Embassy hotlines as appropriate.
What protection orders are available?
The Juvenile and Family Court can issue orders restraining contact, requiring vacate, and providing for custody and support during proceedings under the 2007 Act.
Can a foreigner-victim get protection?
Yes — the Act protects victims regardless of nationality. Embassy can assist with consular support and lawyer referral; emergency travel-document issuance if departure is needed.
Is divorce automatic on domestic violence?
Domestic violence is a recognised ground for contested divorce under CCC §1516 with appropriate evidence.
Expected Timeline
Emergency protection: immediate. Police report: same day. Protection order from court: 1-7 days. Criminal prosecution: 2-12 months.
Related Topics
Get Professional Help
When Legal Representation Matters
If you are experiencing domestic violence against a foreigner, immediate professional legal assistance is essential to protect your rights and navigate this situation effectively.
Anglo Siam Legal provides experienced legal services across Thailand for both Thai nationals and foreigners.
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