Thinking of saying “I do” in the Philippines? Before you walk down the aisle, there’s one important step you can’t skip—securing your marriage license! Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process.
Basic requirements
To apply for a marriage license, you’ll need the following:
1. Birth Certificates: Certified true copies issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) are required. These can be obtained directly from the PSA or through their online services.
2. Valid Identification: Government-issued IDs are necessary for both applicants. Acceptable forms include Voter’s ID, GSIS/SSS ID, Employee’s ID, Postal ID, Passport, TIN, Driver’s License, and School ID. The ID should ideally display your residential address.
3. Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR): This document, issued by the PSA, confirms an individual’s single status. It’s a standard requirement for marriage license applications.
4. Community Tax Certificate (Cedula): Often required and available at the City Treasurer’s Office. It’s advisable to check with your local civil registrar for specific requirements.
5. Recent ID Photos: Typically, 1×1 or 2×2-sized photos are needed, depending on local civil registry requirements.
Additional Requirements:
Pre-Marriage Counseling Certificate: Attendance in a pre-marriage counseling seminar is mandatory. This seminar covers topics like family planning and responsible parenthood.
Parental Consent or Advice: For applicants aged 18-21, written parental consent is required. Those aged 22-25 need to present written parental advice. (More about this below)
Additional Documents for Special Cases: If previously married, documents like the death certificate of a deceased spouse or a court decision with finality for annulled marriages are necessary. Foreign applicants may need a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry from their respective embassies.
Please note that requirements can vary by locality. It’s advisable to consult your local civil registrar for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Parental Consent & Advice
Who needs parental consent?
As stated in Article 14 of the Family Code, individuals aged 18 to 21 must obtain written parental or guardian consent. This consent must be in writing and authenticated by the civil registrar or an authorized government official.
Who needs parental advice?
According to Article 15 of the Family Code, individuals aged 21 to 25 must seek parental or guardian advice before applying for a marriage license. If no objections arise, a sworn statement confirming that advice was sought must be included with the application.
If parental advice is refused or unfavorable, the applicant may still proceed, but they must submit a sworn statement documenting the refusal. In such cases, the marriage license issuance may be delayed for three months to allow a cooling-off period.
Who does not need parental consent or advice?
Under Article 16 of the Family Code, individuals aged 25 and above do not need parental consent or advice and can apply for a marriage license independently.
City-specific requirements
Makati
Requirements for Makati are not publicly detailed. Contact the Makati Civil Registry for updated information.
Mandaluyong
Applicants must submit Barangay Clearance or Proof of Billing. Additional documents such as the Certified True Copy of Decision, Finality of Annulment, and related annulment certificates are required if previously married and annulled. You may contact the Mandaluyong Civil Registry for more details.
Quezon City
Applicants need a Community Tax Certificate (Cedula) and certificates from the Quezon City Health Department (Family Planning Seminar) and Social Services Development Department (Marriage Counseling Seminar). The license is valid for 120 days from issuance and can be used anywhere in the Philippines. You may contact the Quezon City Civil Registry for more details.
Marriage in the Philippines is a legally binding union between a man and a woman, as defined by the Family Code of the Philippines. To ensure validity, the marriage must meet these key requirements:
- Authorized Officiant – The person solemnizing the marriage must have the legal authority, such as a registered priest, minister, or a member of the judiciary.
- Witnesses – At least two individuals of legal age must be present.
- Marriage License – The contracting parties must secure this legal document before the ceremony.
For the most up-to-date information, always check with your local civil registry office. Happy WEdding planning!
