My Thai Wife Died

@Duncan Pauline

First of all, I'm so sorry for your loss.

I'm no expert, but have always had the impression that someone in your situation would have one year to sell the property, as obviously, we as foreigners cannot own the land the house sits on.

If there is an usufruct, you could explore whether this would still entitle you to stay there for the period of the usufruct.

Maybe you would have to talk to a solicitor in Thailand, to verify this, and also to sell, if that is the answer.

Simon 🙏

I would talk to English speaking lawyers in Thailand. There are some. I don't want to name names because I'm not in the business of advertising for anyone. You can find some online.

Thanks guys, there is a usufruct in place for my lifetime

@Duncan Pauline

Then you would need to explore whether that is still legal due to your change in circumstances.

Good luck for the future.

Simon

@Duncan Pauline

thai888 law specializing in foreign probate look us up

regards kelvin

@Duncan Pauline

Duncan, Regarding the UK death certificate (DC), the official process for Thai probate indeed requires it to be first apostilled (or notarized) in the UK by the FCDO or a solicitor for authenticity, then translated into Thai by a Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)-approved translator (certified and stamped as accurate), and finally legalized/stamped by the MFA's Legalization Division in Bangkok (Chaeng Watthana Government Complex) to confirm the translation's validity for court submission. This ensures the Provincial Court accepts it without hitches. Thai888 Law, as probate specialists, routinely coordinates this: they'll guide you on apostilling the original in London (if not done; ~£30–75 via FCDO, 2–5 days), then handle the translation via one of their MFA-approved partners (2–4 days, 3,000–5,000 THB) and MFA legalization (1–3 days, ~500 THB per doc, express available). Total prep time: 7–14 days once you courier the apostilled DC to them. From there, they file the petition promptly, keeping your usufruct secure throughout. Just email Jeab at info@thai888.com with the DC details to kick it off—they'll quote the full package and confirm their translator network. Hang in there; this is standard and straightforward with them. without prejudice