5 Common Problems with Thai Girlfriends

September 15, 2023 - Reading time: 8 minutes
Updated: October 7, 2025

Most relationships have ups and downs. If you are a foreign man dating a Thai woman, you may notice recurring misunderstandings or conflicts. We are frequently hired to investigate Thai partners, so we have seen the most common Thai girlfriend problems up close. Below we explain the issues and how to get clarity fast.

1. Infidelity concerns in Thai relationships

It should come as no surprise that as private investigators based in Thailand, we often encounter cases of cheating. If your partner works in an adult venue such as a beer bar, go go bar, or massage parlour, the risk is higher. Tourist hubs like Pattaya or Patong bring constant opportunities to meet other men.

Dating apps and social media make it easy for attractive women to connect with many suitors at once.

One common scam is the multiple boyfriend setup, where a woman keeps separate long distance relationships. Each man believes he is the only one and sends money or spends freely during visits. The goal is usually financial security.

2. Dishonesty about personal background and marital status

Our background check service verifies identity, age, family, employment, and marital status. We have seen partners misstate age by years, hide children, or mislead about past relationships. We have also seen transgender women present as biological females to start or maintain relationships.

Many are not honest about marital status. If you are romantically involved with a woman who is still legally married, her husband may be able to sue you under Thai law.

Thai ID cards are unreliable for this. A title like Mrs does not guarantee current marriage, and divorced women often keep the same title if they have not updated the record. Some currently married women still show Miss. In short, you cannot rely on a Thai ID card to confirm legal status.

We strongly recommend a marital status verification to confirm marriage and divorce history. This can be a stand alone check or part of a full Thai girlfriend background check. We can also search dating sites, apps, and adult platforms using OSINT and facial matching.

3. Financial expectations and hidden debts

Some women look to foreign relationships for stability. Money asks might start small and grow over time once trust is built. If your girlfriend works in a bar, she may ask for support to leave the job, yet still continue to leave with customers for extra income.

Even women outside nightlife can carry family debt or loans. The Thai idea of saving face means people often hide problems to avoid shame. Our checks can uncover debts, lenders, and pressure points you should know about.

4. Loyalty to family over romantic partners

Family duty is strong in Thailand. Your partner may prioritise parents, grandparents, and siblings, especially if there are financial needs. If you marry, you are often building a tie with her family as well. Meeting family early helps you understand her world and expectations, including customs like sin sod (dowry).

5. Cultural differences in Thai Western relationships

Concepts like saving face matter. Public criticism, raised voices, or jokes at her expense can be deeply embarrassing. Attitudes to family, emotion, and conflict can differ from Western norms. A little cultural awareness goes a long way.

Related articles

• Is adultery acceptable in Thailand?
• Can I trust my Thai girlfriend?
• Signs that your Thai girlfriend is cheating on you
• Dos and Don'ts when dating a Thai lady

Check your Thai girlfriend

If she is still legally married in Thailand, you could be sued by her husband. Social media posts and messages can be used in court to prove a relationship.

We run a professional background check to confirm marriage and divorce history, uncover dating site profiles, social media, verify employment history and other key details. Every enquiry is private and confidential. You receive a clear report and a free, no obligation quote before any work begins.

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