How to Get Married in the Philippines: All Requirements
Dreaming of a Philippine wedding? The U.S. recognizes Filipino marriages, and the process is easier than you think! This guide provides crucial steps, from securing a marriage license (valid for 120 days!) and navigating pre-marital counseling requirements (especially for those under 25) to understanding the necessary documents like birth certificates, CENOMARs, and valid IDs. Learn about civil and church weddings, legal age restrictions, and special considerations for U.S. citizens, including obtaining a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry. Start planning your dream wedding today!
Important information
- You must obtain a marriage license from the local civil registrar, which requires a 10-day waiting period and is valid for 120 days.
- Both individuals must be at least 18 years old. Those under 21 need parental consent.
- Key documents include birth certificates, valid IDs, a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR), and a Community Tax Certificate (cedula).
- Pre-marital counseling and a family planning seminar are often required, especially for those aged 18-25.
- U.S. citizens need a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry from the U.S. Embassy, authenticated with an apostille.
Understanding Marriage in the Philippines
Planning a wedding in the Philippines? Great news! The U.S. recognizes Filipino marriages. The process is straightforward.
Obtain a marriage license.
Reserve your venue and select an officiant.
Conduct the ceremony (civil, religious, or secular).
Register your marriage with the Local Civil Registrar.
Foreign nationals can also wed in the Philippines, but they’ll need additional paperwork:
- Certificate of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage from their embassy,
- Valid identification,
- Possibly a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR).
Legal Requirements for Marriage
To obtain a marriage license, you will need valid identification, such as a passport or government-issued ID. Foreign citizens may also require a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) from their home country. Both individuals must be 18 years of age, and anyone under 21 needs parental consent. Additional documents may be requested by the local civil registrar.
Gather necessary identification, such as a valid passport or government-issued ID. Ensure your identification is current and readily available.
Foreign citizens should obtain a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) from their home country. This document certifies that you are legally free to marry.
Both individuals must be 18 years old to marry. If under 21, parental consent is required. Ensure you have the necessary documentation to prove your age and obtain consent if applicable.
Be prepared to provide additional documents as requested by the local civil registrar. Contact your local registrar’s office in advance to inquire about specific requirements.
Types of Marriage: Civil and Church Weddings
Civil weddings are officiated by government officials, such as judges or mayors, while church weddings are conducted by religious leaders. Regardless of the ceremony type, couples must obtain a marriage license from the Philippine government.
Age and Parental Consent
The legal marriage age in the Philippines is 18. Individuals 21 and older can marry without parental consent. Anyone younger than 18 cannot legally wed. Those between 18 and 20 must have parental consent. Seeking parental guidance is recommended for everyone under 21, given the gravity of this life-changing decision.
Legal Age for Marriage
The legal marriage age in the Philippines is 21. However, individuals aged 18 to 20 may marry with parental consent. Marriage is forbidden for anyone younger than 18.
Parental Consent and Advice
Young couples in the Philippines planning to marry, especially those between 18 and 25, may require pre-marriage counseling. Attendance verification could be necessary, depending on local ordinances. It’s best to check your local regulations for specifics.
Legal Restrictions on Marriage in the Philippines
The Philippine Family Code prohibits proxy and cousin marriages. This reflects key aspects of the nation’s legal system.
Prohibition of Proxy and Cousin Marriages
Proxy and cousin marriages are prohibited in the Philippines.
Documents Needed to Get Married in the Philippines
To prepare for your wedding in the Philippines, gather the following documents:
- Birth certificates and valid IDs issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA),
- A Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) also from the PSA,
- A marriage license application from your local civil registrar,
- A Community Tax Certificate (CEDULA),
- A Barangay Certification,
- Passport-sized ID photos.
PSA Birth Certificates and Valid IDs
Planning a wedding in the Philippines? You’ll need a few key documents. Be sure to obtain your PSA birth certificate (a certified true copy is required) and have at least two valid IDs per person.
Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR)
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) issues a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) in the Philippines. This certificate verifies an individual’s single status. It is a crucial requirement for obtaining a marriage license, preventing bigamy, and ensuring the legality of the marriage. Foreigners planning to marry in the Philippines must also obtain a similar document from their home countries.
Marriage License Application Form
To initiate the marriage process, visit your local Civil Registry Office (LCR) together. Obtain and complete the Marriage License Application Form. Remember to bring essential documents, including valid IDs, birth certificates, and a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR).
Community Tax Certificate (CEDULA)
A Community Tax Certificate (cedula) is required for marriage licenses in the Philippines. This document confirms residency and tax compliance, making it essential for anyone planning to wed there.
Barangay Certification and ID Pictures
You will need a barangay certification and two 2×2 ID photos with a white background.
Marriage License Application Process
Planning a wedding in the Philippines? Here’s a step-by-step guide to obtaining your marriage license:
Gather the necessary documents. This includes your birth certificates, valid IDs, and a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR).
Visit your local civil registrar. Complete the marriage license application and pay the required fee.
Observe the 10-day waiting period. Your application will be processed and posted publicly during this time.
Claim your marriage license. Remember, the license is valid for 120 days, so schedule your ceremony accordingly.
Steps and Waiting Period
Obtaining a marriage license in the Philippines involves several steps.
Submit all required documents, such as birth certificates and proof of residency, to your local civil registrar.
Processing typically takes 10 working days, so apply in advance to prevent potential delays.
Confirm all specific requirements with the local civil registrar beforehand to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, especially if you have a set wedding date.
Validity of the Marriage License
A Philippine marriage license is valid for 120 days from the date of issue. Couples must hold their wedding ceremony within this timeframe. An expired license requires a new application.
Pre-Marital Counseling and Family Planning Seminar
Pre-marital counseling equips couples for a successful marriage by covering essential aspects such as communication, conflict resolution, and family planning. In the Philippines, many local governments mandate pre-marriage seminars, especially for young couples aged 18 to 25. Attendance is compulsory, and a certificate of completion is a prerequisite for a marriage license. This counseling provides valuable insights into the responsibilities of married life.
Pre-marital counseling helps couples prepare for a successful marriage by focusing on important areas like communication and conflict resolution. It also covers family planning.
In the Philippines, many local governments require young couples, particularly those between 18 and 25, to participate in pre-marriage seminars. Attendance is mandatory.
Couples must obtain a certificate of completion from these seminars to get a marriage license. This counseling provides valuable insights into the responsibilities of married life.
Requirements for Couples Aged 18 to 25
Coups are swift seizures of power, rapidly overthrowing existing governments. While often violent, they can also involve political maneuvering, sometimes even enabling a quick, bloodless takeover. Military force is frequently a key component, swiftly replacing the existing leadership and creating instability through this dramatic power shift. Coups can be categorized into three main types:
- Military coups: these involve the armed forces seizing control, often through direct force or threats of violence.
- Palace coups: these occur within the existing government, where one faction ousts another, typically involving political maneuvering and behind-the-scenes power struggles.
- Constitutional coups: these exploit legal loopholes or manipulate constitutional processes to seize power, often appearing legitimate but undermining democratic norms.
The impact of a coup can be far-reaching and devastating.
Economic Impact
Coups often disrupt economic stability, leading to decreased investment, capital flight, and potential sanctions from international bodies.
Social Impact
Social unrest, violence, and human rights abuses are common consequences of coups, creating a climate of fear and instability.
Political Impact
Coups undermine democratic institutions, erode the rule of law, and can lead to prolonged periods of authoritarian rule.
International Impact
Coups can strain international relations, leading to diplomatic isolation and condemnation from the global community.
Officiants and Witnesses for Your Wedding
In the Philippines, marriages must be solemnized by an authorized officiant, such as a judge, priest, or pastor, and witnessed by two adults. The officiant’s role is to ensure the ceremony adheres to legal requirements and to validate the union by signing the marriage certificate. Other individuals may also be granted the authority to perform marriage ceremonies.
Requirement for Two Legal-Age Witnesses
Philippine law requires two adult witnesses for any marriage.
U.S. Citizens Getting Married in the Philippines
U.S. citizens planning a Philippine wedding need a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry from the U.S. Embassy in Manila. This document confirms your eligibility to wed. It requires an apostille from the U.S. Department of State to verify its authenticity for use in the Philippines, ensuring your marriage is legally sound.
Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry
U.S. citizens planning a Philippine wedding need a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry. This document, available from the U.S. Embassy or any consular office, verifies you’re legally free to marry under U.S. law.
Apostille and Document Authentication
For international use, documents often require an apostille, a verification of their origin and validity. The U.S. Department of State issues these for federal documents, while individual states handle apostilles for their own documents. This authentication is crucial for acceptance in the Philippines, ensuring the document’s legitimacy abroad.
Cost of Getting Married in the Philippines
Planning a wedding in the Philippines? Be prepared for a range of potential expenses. Marriage license fees vary by municipality, and venue costs can fluctuate significantly. Other factors influencing the overall cost include officiant fees, attire, reception expenses, and additional incidentals. Ultimately, the final cost depends on the couple’s budget and whether they choose a lavish celebration or a smaller, more intimate affair.
Marriage License Fees and Other Costs
Marriage license fees differ across the Philippines, with each municipality determining its own cost. Beyond the license fee, couples should consider additional expenses, such as officiating and document processing fees. Other wedding-related costs should also be factored into the budget.
Marriage Registration and Certificate
The marriage certificate is sent to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) for registration immediately after the wedding. This officially and legally recognizes the union.
Process of Sending Marriage Certificate to PSA
The Local Civil Registrar receives the marriage certificate from the officiating officer and forwards it to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
