Getting married is one of the most important life decisions you can make. It's a joyous occasion as two people celebrate their love and commitment to each other. It's when they start a new journey together. However, before the 'I do's, there's a key step - filing your notice of marriage at the Registry of Marriage (ROM) and going through the official marriage process.
Going through the marriage process at ROM is vital. It officially records your union and shows you're legally married in Singapore. But it's more than forms to fill out; it marks the start of a new journey you'll always remember.
To simplify this process, we've created this complete guide to registering your marriage in Singapore. You'll learn about eligibility, how to register, and the final steps of getting married. If you're ready for a journey of love and commitment, keep reading!
If you are strapped for time, jump to the end of the article to our FAQ section, where we answer some of the most commonly asked questions.
You CAN also choose wedding venues to do your ROM! Check out our Top 20 Wedding Venues in Singapore article!
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3. Make Payment
Sidenote:
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Registering Your Marriage: Eligibility and Requirements
Singapore is well known for its rules and regulations, and the same applies to marriage. Before we discuss the process of marriage, we need to know the eligibility requirements.
1. Who is Eligible?
You can register for marriage in Singapore if you meet a few conditions. Both people must be over 21 or have legal permission from parents or legal guardians if they're between 18 and 21. The marriage must be willingly chosen, and both of you have to intend to live together as partners. Both of you must also be free to marry. In other words, if either of you has been married before, you will need proof of divorce; sometimes, additional paperwork might be required.
2. Information and Documents Needed for Registration
Here’s what you will need for your marriage registration in Singapore:
Your ID documents, like a passport or NRIC, must be original
ID of your two witnesses, both of whom have to be at least 21 years old
Name of your solemniser
Date, time, and venue of solemnisation if you plan on solemnising outside of ROM
Credit/debit card, or NETS or a Cashcard
3. Special Considerations for Foreign Citizens
If one of you is not a Singaporean or a Permanent Resident, you must show at least 15 days of continuous residence in Singapore before filing a notice to get married. Depending on the conditions of your visit or work pass to Singapore; there may also be an extra step which involves getting approval for the marriage from the Ministry of Manpower to consider.
Knowing who can register and what documents are needed helps make your marriage registration in Singapore go smoothly. Always check the most recent info on the ROM website or get professional advice.
If both of you are foreigners planning on getting married in Singapore, you must follow additional rules and regulations. You can read up on these regulations here.
Step-By-Step Guide to Register Your Marriage in Singapore
Knowing how to register is key if you're planning to marry in Singapore. The process is pretty simple as long as you follow these next steps.
Step 1: Book a Solemniser
Click here for the Top 20 Solemnizers in Singapore listed by Musical Touch!
A solemniser is an individual who leads the bride and groom through their vows. This person also checks the documents required for the marriage and signs the marriage certificate.
If you plan on solemnising your marriage at ROM, you won’t have to worry about engaging a solemniser, as ROM can solemnise the marriage for you. However, if you plan to hold your solemnisation outside of ROM, you must engage a solemniser. ROM has a list of recognised solemnisers that you can refer to. The list includes a wide variety of professionals and religious leaders. Once you’ve booked a solemniser, you must get their signed consent to solemnise your wedding. This has to be done before beginning your marriage application with ROM.
Step 2: Submit a Marriage Application
The next step is to file a Marriage Application, also known as a Notice of Marriage, with ROM. You can do this on the ROM website, at the internet kiosks at the ROM office, or at any Citizen Connect Centre. You'll need to give information like your name, when you want to marry, and where.
A point to note is that registrations must be completed at least 21 days before your solemnisation. Once approved, you must get married within 3 months of the date of your approval. For example, if you file your Notice of Marriage on 1 August, you should plan to get married between 21 August and 1 November.
Step 3: Make Payment
Next, pay for the marriage registration. You can pay online or at the ROM building. Make sure to pay on time to finish the registration. The fees are $42 for Singaporean Citizens and Permanent Residents and $380 if both of you are foreigners.
Step 4: Verify Documents and Complete Statutory Declaration
If you and your spouse-to-be are eligible for an online verification and declaration, you can complete the verification and declaration via the Singpass app. You must complete the signing at least 10 days before your solemnisation. This will give ROM enough time to verify your documents and declaration and give them time to issue a marriage license before your solemnisation.
If you are not eligible for the online verification and declaration, you must do so in person at the ROM building. Alternatively, you may be offered a video call appointment. ROM will provide you with an appointment, and you can check the date and time of your appointment in your dashboard on the ROM website. Remember to bring your NRICs or passports, as well as copies of the NRICs or passports of your two witnesses.
Step 5: Receive the Marriage Licence
Once your documents and declarations have been verified, ROM will process your registration and give you an official marriage licence. You can then proceed with your solemnisation ceremony on your proposed solemnisation date. This leads us to our final step before you can officially declare yourselves a married couple.
Step 6: Solemnise Your Marriage
After you receive your marriage licence, you'll move to the final step. This is when you exchange vows at the solemnisation ceremony, officially becoming husband and wife. It's an important moment that marks the start of your new life with your spouse.
The ceremony usually happens at ROM or a venue of your choosing, and a licensed solemniser officiates it. They'll lead you through the process, making sure all the legal bits are done right. You'll say your vows and exchange rings, showing your commitment to each other.
You might want to add personal touches to your ceremony, like special rituals or readings. However, it is important to remember that everything must follow ROM's rules and legal requirements.
Step 7: Receive Your Digital Marriage Certificate
Right after your ceremony, you'll get your digital marriage certificate. It's the official proof that you're married, and the government, banks, and other institutions accept it. It’s convenient and secure, and there is no need for paper copies. However, you can opt to receive a physical copy if you wish.
Remember to download and keep your digital marriage certificate in an easy-to-access folder. You might need it for joint bank accounts or to register your marriage abroad.
Congratulations! With the ceremony done and your certificate in hand, you are now married. Enjoy the rest of your lives as a married couple!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Registry of Marriage (ROM) in Singapore?
The Registry of Marriage (ROM) helps couples get officially married in Singapore. It ensures all marriages meet legal rules and issues marriage certificates.
Who is eligible to register for marriage in Singapore?
Any couple above the age of 21 can register. If one of you is between 18 and 21, the marriage will require the consent of a parent or legal guardian. If one of you is not a Singaporean or a Permanent Resident, you must show at least 15 days of continuous residence in Singapore before filing a notice to get married.
What documents are needed for marriage registration in Singapore?
You need IDs like NRICs, passports, or FIN cards for both people. You will also need copies of the NRICs or passports of your two witnesses. Sometimes, extra papers like divorce documents are required.
How do I file a Notice of Marriage?
You can file a Notice of Marriage at the ROM website. Alternatively, you can file your notice at one of the internet kiosks at ROM or any Citizen Connect Centres in the country.
How do I check the status of a marriage registration?
To find out your marriage registration status, go to the ROM website. Once you log in, you can find your registration status on the dashboard.
Can foreigners get married in Singapore?
Foreigners can marry in Singapore if they follow certain rules. They may need a proper visa or pass. They might also need more paperwork. You can read up on these requirements and regulations here.
How much does it cost to register my marriage at ROM?
The fees are $42 for Singaporean Citizens and Permanent Residents and $380 if both of you are foreigners.
Can I solemnise my marriage at a venue other than the ROM?
Yes, of course. You can have your marriage ceremony at other places besides ROM. While ROM is cheaper and more convenient, many choose scenic spots like gardens or hotels in Singapore.
What happens during the solemnisation ceremony at ROM?
At ROM, there's a formal ceremony. Couples say their vows and exchange rings in front of a solemniser. They then sign the marriage certificate and are declared married. This process is the same if you decide to solemnise your marriage at a venue outside of ROM.
How do I receive my digital marriage certificate after the solemnisation?
Your digital marriage certificate will be emailed to you after the ceremony. You can also download it from the ROM website. If you need a physical certificate, you can ask for one.
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