How Do I Obtain a Marriage License in the Philippines?

Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in planning your wedding in the Philippines. This legal document authorizes you to get married and is essential for both civil and church weddings. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a marriage license in the Philippines, ensuring you comply with all the necessary legal requirements.

1. Eligibility Requirements

Before applying for a marriage license, ensure that you meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. If you are aged 18 to 21, you will need written parental consent. If you are aged 22 to 25, parental advice is required.
  • Single Status: Both parties must be single, which means not currently married to anyone else. This is verified through a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR).

2. Required Documents

Gather the following documents before heading to the Local Civil Registrar (LCR) office:

  • Birth Certificates: Certified true copies of your birth certificates from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
  • CENOMAR: Obtain a Certificate of No Marriage from the PSA, proving you are not currently married.
  • Valid IDs: Present valid government-issued identification cards.
  • Community Tax Certificates (Cedula): These can be obtained from your local barangay or city hall.
  • Parental Consent or Advice: If applicable, secure a notarized parental consent (for ages 18-21) or parental advice (for ages 22-25).
  • Pre-Marriage Counseling Certificate: Attend a pre-marriage counseling seminar at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) or an accredited provider, and obtain a certificate.
  • Passport and Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry: For foreigners, a certificate from their embassy or consulate in the Philippines confirming their legal capacity to marry is required, along with a copy of their passport.

3. Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for a marriage license:

  1. Visit the Local Civil Registrar Office: Go to the LCR office in the city or municipality where either of you resides.
  2. Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the marriage license application form provided by the LCR.
  3. Submit Required Documents: Submit all the required documents listed above along with the completed application form.
  4. Pay the Filing Fee: Pay the necessary filing fee, which varies depending on the locality but typically ranges from Php 100 to Php 150.

4. Waiting Period and Publication

The application will be posted publicly at the LCR office for ten consecutive days. This publication period allows for any objections to the marriage to be raised.

5. Issuance of Marriage License

After the ten-day waiting period, and assuming no objections are raised, the marriage license will be issued. The license is valid for 120 days from the date of issuance and can be used anywhere in the Philippines.

6. Conducting the Marriage Ceremony

With your marriage license in hand, you can proceed with your wedding ceremony, whether it’s a civil or religious wedding. Ensure that the officiant is authorized to solemnize marriages.

Additional Tips

  • Plan Ahead: Start the application process well in advance of your wedding date to account for the waiting period and any unforeseen delays.
  • Keep Copies: Make copies of all submitted documents for your records.
  • Consult Local Regulations: Some municipalities may have additional requirements or specific procedures, so it’s best to check with your local LCR office.

Obtaining a marriage license is a critical step in your wedding journey. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth process and focus on the excitement of your upcoming celebration. At Tropical Frames, we understand the importance of every detail on your big day. Let us help you capture the magic with our high-quality, affordable wedding photography and videography services.

Sources:

Tropical Frames is here to make your wedding memories last a lifetime with stunning photos and videos.

«
»