How to Get Married in The Netherlands

Dutch law only acknowledges civil marriages, performed by a registrar of marriages. Once the civil ceremony is completed the marriage may then be solemnized in a religious ceremony.

Residency Requirements: Local authorities only perform marriages if one of the parties is a legal resident of the Netherlands. The Dutch Immigration Service does not grant resident status solely for the purpose of getting married.

Applications and/or Documents Required: Bring along original copies of the following (and be sure pack these in your hand luggage, never in your checked bags):

• If you are a foreigner marrying a Dutch resident, you will need to register your intention to marry with the local municipality. You must do this at least two weeks before the wedding date, but it is best to give yourself a few months at least, as the paperwork and documents take a bit of time to collect.
  
• If previously married, then proof has to be shown that both parties are unwed at the time of their marriage. Foreign partners will require a certificate from their home country confirming they are free to marry.
  
• Every foreigner needs to present a birth certificate. The certificate must be affixed with an apostille stamp.
  

The city hall in the municipality where the marriage is planned will be able to provide more specific information regarding the procedure to be followed.

Witnesses:

For a marriage or registered partnership, you are required to have 2 witnesses (who must supply their identity) and up to a maximum of four.

~ by Liz Stiglets

Related Pages:

• wedding regulations in other destinations

Note: Lovetripper.com provides the above information for guidance purposes only. Couples should verify all information with the consulate from their respective countries and with the local offices before making any plans.