You’ve set the date, picked the venue, and started dreaming about the perfect wedding. But before you can say “I do,” there’s one essential document you need: a marriage license.
Think of it as your golden ticket to legally tie the knot, whether you’re planning a romantic church wedding or a simple civil ceremony. Without it, your wedding won’t be recognized by law.
Many couples feel overwhelmed when they first hear about the application form, required documents, and where to apply. But don’t worry! This guide will break down everything you need to know about how to apply for a marriage license in the Philippines, so you can focus on what truly matters—celebrating love.
Where to Get a Marriage License in the Philippines
Many couples ask, “Where do I apply for a marriage license?” The answer: at the local civil registrar’s (LCR) office in the city or municipality where either you or your partner resides.
If you and your fiancé(e) are from different cities, you can choose which LCR office to apply in. However, your wedding can take place anywhere in the Philippines, regardless of where you got your license.
Marriage License Requirements
Here’s what you need to prepare for a hassle-free application:
Basic Requirements for Filipino Couples:
- Duly accomplished marriage license application form (available at the LCR office)
- PSA Birth Certificates of both applicants
- Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR)
- Valid IDs (government-issued)
- Recent ID photos (varies per LCR)
- Barangay Certificate of Residency
- Marriage Counseling Certificate or Pre-Cana Seminar Certificate
- Community Tax Certificate (Cedula)
- Parental Consent (if 18-20 years old) or Parental Advice (if 21-25 years old)
Additional Requirements for Foreigners:
If one or both of you are foreign nationals, additional documents may be required:
- Legal Capacity to Marry (from the respective embassy)
- Passport and photocopies
- Divorce or annulment papers (if previously married)
- Death certificate of the deceased spouse (if widowed)
The marriage license is the most important civil wedding requirement. For couples planning a Catholic church wedding, additional church wedding requirements will apply before you can proceed with the ceremony.
How to Apply for a Marriage License
Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process:
1. Visit the Local Civil Registrar (LCR) Office
Head to the LCR in your or your fiancé(e)’s city or municipality. Get the marriage license application form and fill it out completely. Here’s an example of the application form.
2. Submit the Requirements
Prepare both original and photocopies of the required documents and submit them to the LCR office.
3. Attend the Required Seminars
Marriage counseling or family planning seminars are required in most cities before your application is approved. These are typically held at the LCR office or a designated government agency.
4. Pay the Fees
The cost of a marriage license varies by location but usually ranges from P250 to P500. Check with your local LCR for the exact amount. For a detailed guide on expected expenses, check out our blog on wedding document costs.
5. Wait for the 10-Day Posting Period
After submitting your application, the LCR office will post a notice for 10 days to allow for any objections to your marriage.
6. Claim Your Marriage License
Once the 10-day period is over and there are no objections, your marriage license will be issued. You or your fiancé(e) must claim it in person.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Marriage License?
From application to issuance, the process takes about 10-12 days due to the mandatory posting period. However, some municipalities may process applications faster, so it’s best to check with your LCR office.
What to Do After Getting Your Marriage License
Once you receive your marriage license, the countdown begins! You have 120 days to get married before it expires. Start coordinating with your parish or local courthouse or municipal hall early to submit the necessary documents. And if you haven’t prepared for other wedding requirements in the Philippines, now is the time.
The Marriage License Is Your Key to Forever
Before you walk down the aisle—whether in a church wedding or civil wedding—securing a marriage license is a must. It’s the key to making your union legally recognized and ensuring that your wedding day isn’t just a beautiful celebration but also a binding commitment. The process may involve some paperwork and a bit of waiting, but once you have your license in hand, you’re one step closer to forever.
Author: Aldaia Auman
Aldaia brings ideas to life through writing. Her love for writing began when she finished the pentalogy novel Percy Jackson and the Olympians. When she isn't writing, most of her time is spent watching movies and TV series, playing video games on consoles like Valorant, Horizon, The Sims, and GTA V, hanging out with friends, and sleeping.
