Marriage Requirements in the Philippines

As much as the wedding preparations are fun and exciting, there are some required admin duties that we need to take care of as well. I know, I know... the fees and the long lines are not as glamorous as the food and wine tasting that you had in mind, but nevertheless, it’s still part of the experience, so let’s enjoy every minute of it.

Here’s the list of things you’ll need to accomplish to make the union valid. I'll discuss more the details per requirement in the next few days, but for now, here are the basics... 

1.       Marriage License

This is valid four (4) months.

You will need the following:

·         Birth Certificate – NSO Certified

·         CENOMAR – Certificate of No Marriage, NSO Certified

·         Age Requirement

o    For those below 18, getting married will not be allowed even if the parents will allow it.

o    For couples aged 18 to 21 – needs Parental Consent

o    For couples aged 22 to 25 – needs Parental Advice

·         Passport sized picture

·         Residence Certificate

·         Certificate of attendance to a Pre-Marital Counseling and Family Planning Seminar

·         Application form

·         Pay corresponding fees

Note: for those that were previously married, you will need to provide one of the ff:

1.       Documentation for absolute Divorce or Annulment of your previous marriage

2.       Death certificate of your deceased spouse

2.       Baptismal Certificate

This is valid three (3) months.

Should have the annotation “For Marriage Purposes”

3.       Confirmation Certificate    

This is valid three (3) months.

Should have the annotation “For Marriage Purposes”

4.       Wedding Bans

Should be posted for three (3) consecutive Sundays in the parish of the bride and groom.

5.       Catholic Pre Marriage Seminar

Schedule will be provided by the parish, and the couple needs to attend.

6.       Canonical Interview

Should be done one month before the wedding.

7.       List of Principal Sponsors/Witnesses

Again, these are the basics, other items may need to be added as required depending on religion, citizenship, or even previous marriage. Make sure to check with your church their list of requirements. 

 image from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/

Stress free wedding preps everyone! “,)