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Are you dreaming of exchanging vows in the beautiful islands of the Philippines? Starting this journey means understanding the key requirements for marriage in this lively country. This guide covers everything from the types of weddings to the documents you need, making your way to marriage as smooth as the beaches1.
Before you can get married, remember that the marriage license in the Philippines is only valid for 120 days1. Also, you must be 18 or older to marry here, with extra rules for those 18 to 21 or 22 to 251. And, you’ll need two legal-age witnesses at your wedding1.
Key Takeaways
- Marriage license in the Philippines is valid for 120 days
- Applicants must be 18 years or older to marry, with additional requirements for certain age groups
- Two legal-age witnesses are required during the wedding ceremony
- U.S. citizens marrying in the Philippines must apostille their documents
- Pre-marital counseling is mandatory for all couples in the Philippines
Types of Marriages in the Philippines
In the Philippines, couples can choose between a civil or church wedding2. Most Filipino weddings blend Christian, Hindu, Islamic, Chinese, Spanish, and American traditions2. Before the Spanish arrived, Filipino weddings lasted three days, led by a babaylan, a tribal priest or priestess2.
Civil Weddings
Civil weddings follow the law and are popular among US citizens2. To marry in the Philippines, you must be 25 or older and not have any marriage barriers2. Couples must also attend a family planning seminar before the wedding2. The cost of a civil wedding varies, with fees from free to PHP 8,0003. You can arrange a civil wedding for as little as PHP 10,0003.
Church Weddings
For a church wedding, you must meet the church’s rules, like a pre-nuptial seminar and an interview with a priest2. If one partner isn’t Catholic, there might be more steps2.
“The traditional marriage proposal in the Philippines involves the pamanhikan or parental marriage proposal, where the groom and his parents ask for the bride’s hand in marriage.”2
Eligibility for Marriage in the Philippines
To get married in the Philippines, couples must meet certain requirements. The legal age for marriage is 18 years old4. If you’re 18 to 21, you need your parents’ written consent. Those 22 to 25 must get advice from your parents before marrying5.
The Philippines has rules about who can get married. Same-sex couples can’t marry because the Family Code only allows marriage between a man and a woman4. Also, marrying your first cousin is not allowed5.
Being single is another must for marriage in the Philippines. If you’ve been married before, you need proof that your previous marriage ended, like a death certificate or a court decree5. If you’ve had your previous marriage annulled or ended, you must provide certified photocopies of the judicial decrees6.
The Philippines has clear rules for those wanting to get married. Knowing these requirements helps couples prepare for their big day and makes the marriage process smoother456.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Age for Marriage | – Males must be at least 16 years old – Females must be at least 14 years old – Those aged 18 to 21 can marry with written parental consent – Those aged 22 to 25 must get parental advice before marrying |
| Persons Authorized to Solemnize Marriages | – Chief Justice and Associate Justices of the Supreme Court – Judges – Municipal judges – Priests or ministers of the gospel |
| Marriage License Requirements | – License issued by the municipal secretary or clerk – 10-day notice period before issuance (may be waived if church/religious requirements met) – Fees associated with the license process |
In summary, the Philippines has strict rules for marriage. Knowing these requirements helps couples prepare for their wedding and ensures a smooth process456.
Documents Required for US Citizens
Are you a US citizen planning to marry in the Philippines? You’ll need to gather several important documents. These include your birth certificate and proof of ending any previous marriage. These are key for the marriage application.
Birth Certificate
As a US citizen, you must bring your original birth certificate with an apostille seal7. If your partner is from the Philippines, they should have a birth certificate from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Proof of Termination of Previous Marriage
If you’ve been married before, you must show proof that your previous marriage ended. This could be a death certificate or a divorce decree7.
Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry
US citizens need a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry from the US Embassy or Consulate. This proves you’re single and can legally marry a Filipino8.
Valid ID
You and your partner must have valid IDs. For US citizens, this is a US passport. For Philippine citizens, it could be a national ID or driver’s license8.
Recent Passport Photos
You’ll also need two recent passport-sized photos with a white background for the application8.
Getting married as a US citizen in the Philippines might seem tough, but with the right documents, it’s easier. Just make sure you have all the documents ready and plan well for a smooth process.
list of requirements for marriage in philippines
Are you planning to get married in the Philippines? As a dual-US/Filipino citizen9, you’ll have to follow a detailed list of steps. You’ll need to get the right documents and go through pre-marriage counseling. It might seem tough, but with the right info, you’ll get through it easily.
First, collect your important documents. You’ll need a birth certificate10, proof of ending any past marriage, and a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry11. Also, bring valid IDs and recent passport photos11.
Then, fill out the marriage license application form11 and get a Barangay certification10. And don’t forget your Community Tax Certificate or CEDULA10. This proves you’ve paid your community tax.
Getting a Certificate of Attendance in pre-marriage counseling9 is crucial. This seminar teaches you about family planning, responsible parenthood, and more. It prepares you for marriage.
Remember, the Philippine marriage license11 is only valid for 120 days. Make sure to use it before it expires. If you don’t, the license will be canceled.
By meeting these list of requirements for marriage in philippines91011, you’re ready to get married in the Philippines. With the right documents and preparation, you can enjoy celebrating your love and starting a new life together.
“Marriage is the most beautiful journey two people can embark on together. With the right preparation and the fulfillment of all the necessary requirements, your union in the Philippines will be a cherished memory for a lifetime.”
Marriage Registration Process
Getting married in the Philippines means following a few key steps. Whether you’re planning a civil or church wedding, you must meet certain requirements. This makes your union official.
Obtain Marriage License
The first step is to get a marriage license at your local civil registry office. This license is good for 120 days and can be used anywhere in the Philippines12. Getting the license costs P120.006.
Attend Pre-Marriage Counseling
You and your partner must do a pre-marriage counseling course, no matter the type of wedding. The course length varies by organization. It’s to make sure you’re ready for marriage.
Secure an Officiant
For a civil wedding, a judge or mayor can officiate. For a church wedding, a priest or pastor does it. Make sure your officiant is free on your wedding day.
Hold the Wedding Ceremony
With your marriage license, officiant, and witnesses ready, you can have your wedding12. For a civil wedding, you need two witnesses.
Register the Marriage
After the wedding, register at the Local Civil Registrar’s office12. Bring the marriage license, pre-nuptial agreement, and marriage certificate. The officiant must register within 15 days13. You can get your marriage certificate in about 10 business days after the civil wedding.
The marriage process in the Philippines might seem hard, but knowing the steps helps. By following the requirements, you can make your dream wedding come true.
Recognition of Philippine Marriage in the US
If you got married in the Philippines, the US will recognize it. This is true for all marriages legally performed in the Philippines14. To make sure your marriage is valid in the US, you need to get your marriage certificate. Then, register it at the US Embassy or Consulate.
Getting your Philippine marriage recognized in the US has a few steps. First, get your marriage certificate from the local civil registrar in the Philippines. After that, register your marriage with the US Embassy or Consulate where your wedding was held14.
To register, you’ll need to give the US Embassy or Consulate some documents. These include four original copies of the Report of Marriage (ROM) forms, four copies of each spouse’s passport, and four copies of the Philippine citizenship proofs at the time of the wedding14. You also need four copies of both spouses’ Birth Certificates.
If you’ve been married before, there are more things you need. For example, if your previous marriage was annulled in the Philippines, you’ll need a special document. If you were divorced, you’ll need certain papers too, depending on your situation14.
Remember, the Consulate General only takes Marriage Certificates from certain US states14. They work on marriage matters from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM14.
There are fees for these services, but they can change. Here are some typical costs15:
- Conversion to non-quota immigrant visa by marriage (Probationary):
- PRINCIPAL: Php 8,620.00
- DEP-SPOUSE: Php 8,620.00
- DEP-B16: Php 8,370.00
- DEP-B14: Php 7,870.00
- Additional Fee for ACR I-Card: 1 Year – + US $50
- Inclusion of dependent spouse and/or unmarried child/ren below 21 years of age for immigrant visa or temporary resident visa (TRV) holders:
- DEP-SPOUSE: Php 8,620.00
- DEP-B16: Php 8,370.00
- DEP-B14: Php 7,870.00
- Additional Fee for ACR I-Card: 1 Year – + US $50
Remember, these fees can change without warning15.
Philippine marriages are recognized in the US because both countries are part of the Hague Convention16. This makes it easier for couples to get their marriages recognized.
With the right documents and knowledge, you can easily get your Philippine marriage recognized in the US. This way, your marriage will be legal in both countries.
Obtaining Marriage Certificate and Name Change
After your wedding in the Philippines, you can get a copy of your marriage certificate from the Local Civil Registrar’s office. This document is key for changing your name in both the Philippines and the United States17.
Getting a marriage certificate costs vary. Online through the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) is 365 PHP17. Walk-in applications are 155 PHP17. Online applications take 1-6 working days17, while walk-ins take 3-13 working days17. Applying at an SM Business Center adds a 25 PHP fee17, with a 3 to 9 business day wait17.
To get your marriage certificate, you’ll need details like your and your spouse’s full names, marriage date and place, and your address. It’s wise to get at least 3 original copies17.
With your marriage certificate, you can update your status and change your name with agencies in the Philippines. This includes PhilHealth, SSS, and Pag-IBIG17. Updating with PhilHealth takes less than five minutes17, SSS in a day17, and SSS status for the unemployed varies by branch17.
For name changes in the United States, work with agencies like the SSA and IRS. Updating with the IRS takes time, best checked at the RDO17. Pag-IBIG updates aren’t timed in the text17. Your Pag-IBIG ID is good for life17.
If you’re a US citizen married in the Philippines, report the marriage to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate18. Fees for services like the Report of Marriage are $25.00 each18. You’ll need documents like the marriage contract and IDs, all notarized by a US notary18. Getting a PSA-authenticated Report of Marriage takes 6 to 12 months18.
In the Philippines, the marriage certificate is registered by the Local Civil Registry Office within 15 days19. A certified copy costs 365 PHP and takes three to six months19. The certificate lists the couple’s names, marriage details, and witness names19. Anyone or a representative can get a copy19. The marriage license must be obtained before the wedding, with required documents and fees19.
Remember, marriage certificates in the Philippines aren’t instantly PSA-certified. They go through an endorsement process before being recognized19.
Philippine Marriage Laws for Same-Sex Couples
The Philippines does not recognize same-sex marriages20. Its Family Code says marriage is between a man and a woman. This means LGBTQ+ couples can’t legally marry here20.
But, there are efforts to help same-sex relationships get legal support. Bills have been proposed to give benefits to LGBTQ+ couples20. Some local areas have also made laws against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity20.
Even without legal same-sex marriage, LGBTQ+ couples have other ways to celebrate their love. The Rite of Holy Union is a special ceremony for two people, no matter their gender or sexual preference21.
To get a Holy Union at Open Table MCC, couples must be 25 or older and have been together for a year. They also need to be fully vaccinated. If they’ve been married before or had a Holy Union, they’ll need to show proof21.
The Rite of Holy Union isn’t a legal marriage. But, it’s a big deal for the couple, celebrating their love and commitment. The Supreme Court of the Philippines says the Constitution doesn’t stop marriage based on gender or sexual orientation21.
Even with current laws, the Philippines is moving towards more LGBTQ+ rights and accepting same-sex relationships. It’s up in the air how marriage laws will change to include the LGBTQ+ community’s needs20.
Inter-Religious and Interracial Marriages
In the Philippines, interfaith marriage philippines and interracial marriage philippines are allowed, as long as the couple meets certain requirements22. But, some churches might have extra rules for these marriages22.
For interfaith marriage philippines, it’s important to follow both church and government rules to register the marriage22. Couples might choose a civil wedding, which only involves the state, to marry without worrying about their faith22. They might also need things like a Certificate of Freedom to Marry and Permission for the Celebration of a Mixed Marriage from the local Archdiocese Office22.
When planning an interfaith marriage philippines, it’s key to pick the most important traditions from both religions22. Having multiple officiants, one from each faith, is a common choice to honor both sides22. Adding elements of both faiths to the wedding, like decorations and clothes, makes the day more personal and meaningful22.
For interracial marriage philippines, there’s been a rise in marriages between Filipinos and people from other countries, making up about 3.3% of all marriages in 202223. One in three of these were between Filipinos and Americans23.
Even with challenges, interfaith marriage philippines and interracial marriage philippines celebrate love that goes beyond cultural and social norms. They show the love and unity of the couple22.
“Couples can include elements of both partners’ faiths in their vows to demonstrate respect for each other’s beliefs.”
| Country | Marriage License Fees |
|---|---|
| Barbados | US$100 (BDS$200) for non-citizens or residents, US$22.50 (BDS$45) for citizens or residents24 |
| Canada | Age requirements for marriage without parental consent vary by province (e.g., 18 in Ontario, 19 in British Columbia)24 |
| Croatia | Certificate of No Impediment/Certificate of Freedom to Marry must not be older than 3 months (90 days)24 |
| France | Marriage is legal only through a civil ceremony, with the option for additional religious ceremonies or celebrations after the legal marriage24 |
| Greece | Orthodox wedding ceremonies do not involve the exchange of vows; the community’s approval and support are symbolized by the groom handing the bride the bouquet before entering the church together24 |
For more info on interfaith marriage philippines and interracial marriage philippines, check out these resources:
- International Marriage License Requirements by Country
- Mixed Religion Wedding in the Philippines
- Registered Marriages in the Philippines (2022)
Dual Citizenship and Marriage Requirements
If you’re a Filipino with dual citizenship or a foreign national with dual citizenship, getting married in the Philippines has some steps. But, with the right info and prep, you can make it work in the Pearl of the Orient25.
Filipinos with Dual Citizenship
For Filipinos with dual citizenship, you might use your Philippine birth certificate to prove you can get married25. But, some places might ask for a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry. So, it’s smart to check with the office where you’re getting married25.
Foreign Nationals with Dual Citizenship
If you’re a foreign national with dual citizenship, what you need for marriage in the Philippines can change. Some places might want a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry, while others might take your foreign papers25. Always talk to the office where you plan to get married to see what they need.
No matter your citizenship status, having all your documents ready is key for a smooth marriage in the Philippines. Being proactive and informed helps you handle the dual citizenship and marriage rules with ease.
“Retaining or reacquiring your Philippine citizenship can open up a world of possibilities, including the right to travel with a Philippine passport, own real property in the Philippines, and even practice your profession upon obtaining the necessary license or permit.”26
To get the details on what you need, talk to the local civil registrar’s office where you’re getting married. Knowing the process well helps make your marriage in the Philippines a success252726.
Common Marriage Traditions in the Philippines
The Philippines is known for its deep cultural roots, seen in its wedding traditions. These customs blend Catholic, indigenous, and multicultural influences. This makes Filipino weddings a unique celebration of love and unity28.
One key tradition is the Pamamanhikan, where the groom asks the bride’s family for their blessing. For Muslim Filipino couples in Mindanao, the engagement includes a dowry and a spiritual cleansing called palamas before the wedding28. Filipino-Chinese couples have the Ting Hun, where they exchange gifts like fruits and money in red envelopes28.
Indigenous groups, like the Ifugao, celebrate with the takik dance to honor their deity Kabunyan. This is part of their engagement customs28. Filipino wedding invitations often feature the couple’s photos. The attire can be traditional, like the Barong Tagalog, made or bought28.
The traditional wedding ceremony includes lighting candles and exchanging wedding coins, based on Catholic beliefs29. Receptions often have traditional dishes like lechon and pancit, and desserts like sapin-sapin and ube28.
The money dance is a big part of Filipino weddings, where guests give money to the couple as they dance28. Couples also give gifts to their entourage and guests, like abanikos, as a thank you28.
| Filipino Wedding Traditions | Description |
|---|---|
| Pamamanhikan | The groom expresses his intentions to wed and seeks the blessing of the bride’s family. |
| Kagen & Taltag | Engagement ceremony for Muslim Filipino couples in Mindanao, involving a dowry and spiritual cleansing. |
| Ting Hun | Ceremony where Filipino-Chinese couples exchange symbolic gifts like fruits, candies, wine, and red envelopes with money. |
| Takik Dance | Indigenous engagement custom performed by the Ifugao Indigenous group to honor their deity Kabunyan and seek blessings. |
| Coin Ceremony | The Filipino traditional Catholic Coin Ceremony involves 13 coins (Arras) blessed by the groom for his bride, symbolizing the welfare of their future family. |
| Money Dance | A popular Filipino wedding tradition where guests pin money on the couple as they dance, contributing to their future together. |
These traditions show the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage and the importance of family and community in weddings282930.
Whether you’re planning a traditional Filipino wedding or just curious, learning about these customs can make your celebration special282930.
Marrying a Beautiful Filipina
The Philippines is famous for its lovely and kind people. It’s a top choice for those wanting to marry a Filipina. Knowing the marriage rules and customs helps make your dream come true31.
To start, the Filipina needs her birth certificate and a Certificate of No Marriage Record (CENOMAR) from the National Statistics Office. This shows she’s free to marry31. The foreign partner must show a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage. This is from their country’s diplomatic or consular office, proving they can marry31.
You must apply for the marriage license at the Office of the Civil Registrar in the city where the Filipina lives31. This certificate is good for 4 months32. Getting the license might take about three months if you need your parents’ okay32.
The marriage must be done by someone with the right to perform it, like a priest, judge, or mayor, as the law says31. The ceremony costs SGD 229.50 at the Philippine Embassy33. You also need two witnesses who are at least 21 years old33.
By taking the right steps and knowing what’s needed, you can marry a beautiful Filipina. It might take some work, but with effort and patience, you’ll get through it. And then, you can start a new chapter in your life313233.
“The Philippines is a land of beauty, both in its landscapes and its people. Marrying a Filipina is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich and vibrant culture.”
Conclusion
Getting married in the Philippines is a unique blend of culture and law. It’s filled with rich traditions and modern rules. Knowing about the34 low divorce rates and the need for marriage counseling34 helps you feel confident.
Choosing between a civil35 or church wedding? Make sure you know the rules and what documents you need, like birth certificates and IDs. The35 Family Code has rules that help couples get married easily.
Starting your journey to getting married in the Philippines or philippines marriage requirements? Remember, annulment can be costly and take a while. Plan well and get advice to make smart choices and build lasting memories.
FAQ
What are the different types of marriages in the Philippines?
What are the eligibility requirements for marriage in the Philippines?
What documents do US citizens need to get married in the Philippines?
What is the comprehensive list of requirements for getting married in the Philippines?
What is the marriage registration process in the Philippines?
Is a Philippine marriage valid in the United States?
Can same-sex couples get married in the Philippines?
Can Filipinos with dual citizenship use their Philippine birth certificate as proof of legal capacity to marry?
Do foreign nationals with dual citizenship need a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry in the Philippines?
Source Links
- https://www.travelvisapro.com/blog/passports/how-to-get-married-in-philippines-as-a-u-s-citizen
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marriage_and_wedding_customs_in_the_Philippines
- https://the-smile-bar.ph/everything-about-civil-weddings-philippines-full-guide/
- https://nomadicfire.com/getting-married-in-the-philippines
- https://elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph/thebookshelf/showdocs/28/54455
- https://losbanos.gov.ph/posts/90
- https://www.fickeymartinezlaw.com/immigration/consular-processing/us-citizens-guide-to-marrying-in-the-philippines-and-immigrating-a-philippine-filipina-spouse-to-the-united-states
- https://newyorkpcg.org/pcgny/civil-registration/getting-married-at-the-consulate/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Philippines/comments/10euu0x/questions_about_civil_wedding_requirements_in_the/
- https://www.nuptials.ph/civil-wedding-requirements-in-the-philippines/
- https://philippineembassy-dc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/SOLEMNIZATION-OF-MARRIAGE.pdf
- https://rapidvisa.com/definitive-guide-to-getting-married-in-the-philippines/
- https://www.meco.org.tw/services/notarial-services/report-of-marriage
- http://www.chicagopcg.com/reportofmarriage.html
- https://immigration.gov.ph/visas/immigrant-visa-by-marriage-13a/
- https://ph.usembassy.gov/services/notarials/
- https://www.nuptials.ph/requirements-for-change-of-marital-status/
- https://newyorkpcg.org/pcgny/civil-registration/report-of-marriage-of-a-filipino-abroad/
- https://brideandbreakfast.ph/2023/01/21/marriage-certificate-faqs/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LGBT_rights_in_the_Philippines
- https://holyunion.opentablemcc.ph/apply/othervenue/
- https://www.nuptials.ph/mixed-religion-wedding/
- https://psa.gov.ph/content/registered-marriages-philippines-2022
- https://wedaways.com/international-marriage-license-requirements-by-country/
- https://philippineembassy-dc.org/frequently-asked-questions-faqs/
- https://newyorkpcg.org/pcgny/consular-services/dual-citizenship/
- https://philippineembassy-dc.org/dual-citizenship-application/
- https://www.filipinowedding.com/pages/filipino-wedding-traditions
- https://www.linandjirsa.com/filipino-wedding-traditions/
- https://www.townsdelight.com/blog/10-popular-filipino-wedding-traditions
- https://brideandbreakfast.ph/2019/09/10/requirements-to-marry-a-foreigner/
- https://www.nuptials.ph/marriage-requirements-for-foreigners-philippines/
- https://www.philippine-embassy.org.sg/marriage/solemnization/
- https://www.merosamparka.com/manila-city-hall-marriage-license-requirements-everything-you-need-to-know/
- https://www.respicio.ph/features/article-34-marriage-philippines
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