Marrying at City Hall: Everything You Need to Know
2 December 2020
When you marry in church, your marriage is automatically recognized by the state. The reverse isn’t true—a civil ceremony has no standing in the church. That’s one key point to bear in mind if you’re planning a purely civil wedding. Luckily, thanks to self-certifications and updated civil-status regulations, the paperwork is fairly straightforward. You don’t need to start a year in advance; about two months before your chosen date is usually enough time to complete the preliminaries.
What You Need to Do
First, file your marriage banns with the Civil Status Officer in your municipality of residence. If the couple live in different towns, you can choose either one. You or a designated representative (with a special power of attorney) can submit the request.
You’ll need to provide each partner’s residence, citizenship, full name, date and place of birth. You must also declare that you have no criminal convictions, that you are legally free to marry (not already married, divorced or widowed without restriction), and that you are not under any guardianship. Finally, you’ll confirm there are no impediments by blood or marriage.
After the Banns Are Posted
Once the banns have been published, you only need to wait four days before your civil ceremony can take place. You don’t have to marry in either spouse’s hometown, but if you choose a different municipality, make sure you submit all required documents there.
You’ll need to provide each partner’s residence, citizenship, full name, date and place of birth. You must also declare that you have no criminal convictions, that you are legally free to marry (not already married, divorced or widowed without restriction), and that you are not under any guardianship. Finally, you’ll confirm there are no impediments by blood or marriage.
After the Banns Are Posted
Once the banns have been published, you only need to wait four days before your civil ceremony can take place. You don’t have to marry in either spouse’s hometown, but if you choose a different municipality, make sure you submit all required documents there.
A civil wedding is normally held in a municipal ceremony room or another town-owned venue. Exceptions can be made for serious illness or other justified reasons. It’s best to select a location officially authorized for weddings.
Witnesses and Officiants
Each spouse needs at least one witness, though you can have two or more on each side. Many couples choose siblings, but there’s no legal restriction on who you pick. You can even have a friend or relative officiate—provided they’re at least 18 and serve as a current municipal councilor with full civil rights. They cannot be your child, parent or grandparent, but cousins or siblings are acceptable.
Personal Touches
Even at a civil ceremony, you can arrive in style—whether that’s a limo or a vintage car. You also have more musical freedom than in a church wedding; feel free to enter the ceremony hall to a rock anthem if that suits you.
Decorations
Don’t forget the flowers and adornments. Tradition calls for decorations on the couple’s chairs, at the signing table and by the entrance. Keep things tasteful so the décor enhances your photos instead of overshadowing you.
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