Marriage is a meaningful milestone, and there are specific legal steps to follow for those looking to register a civil marriage in Singapore. Understanding the eligibility criteria, the application process, or what happens after the solemnisation ensures a smooth journey.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Singapore civil marriage, from registration to solemnisation, and even what to consider in case of Divorce.
What Is A Civil Marriage In Singapore?
A civil marriage in Singapore is a legally recognised union between two individuals under the Women’s Charter. Unlike religious or traditional ceremonies, a licensed solemniser officiates civil marriage. It must be registered with the Registry of Marriages (ROM). This ensures that the marriage is legally binding, offering both parties rights and protections under Singapore law.
Who Can Register A Civil Marriage In Singapore?
Before proceeding with civil marriage in Singapore, couples must meet specific legal requirements to ensure their union is recognised under the Women’s Charter. These requirements safeguard the legality of marriages and prevent issues such as bigamy or underage marriages.
1. Age Requirement
Both individuals must be at least 21 years old to register a civil marriage without parental consent. However, if either party is between 18 and 20 years old, they can still get married only if they obtain parental or guardian consent. This ensures that younger couples have the necessary family support before committing to marriage.
2. Marital Status
Both parties must be legally eligible to marry, meaning they must be:
- Single (never married before)
- Divorced (with a finalised Divorce order)
- Widowed (if their previous spouse has passed away)
If either party has gone through a Divorce, they must provide legal proof of the dissolution of their previous marriage. This includes submitting the Final Judgment of Divorce to the Registry of Marriages (ROM).
3. Prohibited Relationships
Certain close relatives are legally forbidden from marrying in Singapore due to consanguinity (blood relations) or affinity (relationships by marriage or adoption). This rule exists to prevent genetic issues and uphold social norms. The list of prohibited relationships includes:
- Parent and child
- Siblings (full or half-siblings)
- Grandparent and grandchild
- Uncle and niece, or aunt and nephew
However, some distant relatives may still marry with legal approval. If in doubt, couples should check with the Registry of Marriages (ROM).
4. Residency Requirement
At least one party must have lived in Singapore for a minimum of 15 continuous days before filing the Notice of Marriage. This rule applies to both citizens and non-citizens.
For foreigners, staying in Singapore under a social visit pass, work pass, or long-term visit pass can satisfy this requirement. However, those on a short tourist stay may not qualify unless they meet other legal conditions.
How To Register A Civil Marriage In Singapore
The process of registering a civil marriage in Singapore is structured to ensure that all legal obligations are met before the couple is officially recognised as married. The steps include filing a notice, verifying documents, selecting a solemniser, and attending the ceremony.
Step 1: File The Notice Of Marriage
Before anything else, couples must file a Notice of Marriage online via the Registry of Marriages (ROM) website. This notice serves as a declaration of intent to marry. It must be submitted at least 21 days before the planned solemnisation date. However, it remains valid for up to three months, meaning the marriage must take place within this period.
Important details to provide when filing the notice:
- Personal particulars (full names, NRIC/passport numbers, contact details)
- Marital status (single, divorced, or widowed)
- Preferred solemnisation date and time
- Details of the chosen solemniser (if holding the ceremony outside the ROM)
- Names and NRIC/passport details of two witnesses (must be at least 21 years old)
A non-refundable fee applies for filing the notice, and the amount depends on whether the ceremony is held at the ROM or an external venue.
Step 2: Verify Documents At The Registry Of Marriages
After submitting the notice, couples must book an appointment to verify their documents in person at the ROM. Both individuals must attend the verification session together, bringing along the following:
- Original NRIC or passport
- Final Judgment of Divorce (if previously married)
- Parental or guardian consent form (if either party is under 21)
Failure to attend the appointment may lead to the cancellation of the marriage application.
Step 3: Select A Solemniser And Venue
Couples can choose to solemnise their marriage at the ROM or hold the ceremony at an external location. If opting for an external venue, they must appoint a licensed solemniser, who is a legally recognised individual (such as a Justice of the Peace, a religious leader, or a grassroots leader) to officiate the marriage.
Considerations when selecting a solemniser:
- Check the list of licensed solemnisers on the ROM website.
- Contact the solemniser early to confirm their availability.
- Ensure they are comfortable with the chosen location and timing.
At least two witnesses (aged 21 or older) must also be present to sign the marriage certificate during the ceremony.
Step 4: Attend The Solemnisation Ceremony
On the day of the ceremony, both individuals must arrive at the venue with their original NRIC or passport. During the solemnisation:
- The solemniser will confirm that both parties are entering the marriage voluntarily.
- The couple will exchange vows and sign the marriage certificate.
- The solemniser and witnesses will also sign the certificate to validate the union.
If held at the ROM, the ceremony typically takes place in a designated room with limited guests. If held at an external venue, couples may customise their ceremony while ensuring legal compliance.
Step 5: Receive The Marriage Certificate
Once the solemnisation is complete, the couple receives their official Marriage Certificate. This document serves as legal proof of marriage and may be required for matters such as name changes, immigration applications, or financial transactions.
Key things to do after receiving the marriage certificate:
- Update marital status with government agencies, banks, and insurance providers.
- Consider estate planning, such as drafting a will or reviewing beneficiary designations.
- If necessary, seek legal advice on marital rights and responsibilities.
A civil marriage in Singapore is legally binding, meaning any dissolution of the marriage must go through a proper legal process such as annulment or Divorce. For those who need legal assistance, Tembusu Law has some of the best Divorce lawyers in Singapore who can provide guidance on family law matters.
Conclusion About Civil Marriage In Singapore
Registering a civil marriage in Singapore is straightforward, but it requires careful planning to meet all legal requirements. Understanding each step, from filing the notice of marriage to selecting a solemniser and finalising documents, ensures a smooth transition into married life.
For those who require legal assistance at any stage, Tembusu Law provides expert guidance, including support for Divorce matters.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Civil Marriage In Singapore
What Documents Do I Need For A Civil Marriage In Singapore?
You will need your NRIC or passport, proof of marital status (if divorced or widowed), and details of your chosen solemniser and witnesses.
How Long Does It Take To Complete The Civil Marriage Process?
The process takes at least 21 days, as you must file a notice of marriage in advance. The entire process, from registration to solemnisation, typically takes around one to three months.
Can Foreigners Register A Civil Marriage In Singapore?
Yes, foreigners can marry in Singapore, provided they meet residency requirements and submit the necessary documents to the Registry of Marriages.
Can I Change My Solemnisation Date After Filing The Notice?
Yes, but you may need to file a new notice and pay additional fees. To avoid delays, it’s advisable to confirm dates before submission.
Do I Need Witnesses For My Civil Marriage?
Yes, two witnesses above 21 years old must be present during the solemnisation ceremony.
What Happens If I Want To Annul My Marriage?
Annulment is possible under specific conditions, such as non-consummation or lack of valid consent. If you’re considering an annulment, legal advice from a family law firm like Tembusu Law is recommended.
