Registering a foreign marriage

If you got married abroad but live in the Netherlands, you must register your marriage in the gemeente (municipality) where you live. Not every marriage is valid in the Netherlands. For example, the married couple must be at least 18 years of age on the day of their marriage. 

Registration appointment

You can make an appointment at the GemeenteLoket (municipal service desk) to register your marriage outside the Netherlands with the gemeente (municipality). Please bring with you to the appointment:

  • the original marriage certificate with legalisation or apostille in Dutch, German, English or French
  • your valid ID
  • depending on your situation, a declaration stating you are not getting married in order to get a residence permit for you or your partner.
    • The marriage certificate is in Dutch, English, German or French. If not, you must have it translated by a sworn translator in the Netherlands.
    • Your marriage certificate has been legalised or has an apostille stamp.
    • You must declare in writing that you are not getting married in order to get a residence permit for you or your partner if:
      • you or your partner (or both) are not Dutch
      • you or your partner (or both) do not have the nationality of a country in the European Union
      • you or your partner (or both) do not have the nationality of Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland or Switzerland
      • you do not have a permanent residence permit.
  • Registration of your marriage performed outside the Netherlands is free of charge.