Wedding Requirements In the Philippines

When you plan to get married, there are many things that you need to prepare like wedding gowns, wedding church, wedding reception, wedding invitations and the like. However, before you plan for these things, you need to comply first the requirements needed by the church and or your local civil registrar.

So, what are the things that you need to comply before filing a marriage license? First is CENOMAR or Certificate of No Marriage. Here in the Philippines, CENOMAR was being requested since there had been several cases before that some was able to get married twice even if they are still married to someone. You can simply request CENOMAR (Singleness) through NSO or simply request it online and just pay the necessary fees.

Parental Consent is needed if either one of you is between the ages of 18 and 21. This should be submitted in writing or in a form of affidavit made in the presence of two witnesses and duly signed by any authorized lawyer. However if both party ages 21 to 25 what you need to provide is a parental advice. Parental advice should also be submitted in writing accompanied with a sworn statement of the couples that such advice was sought. If your parents refuse to give you advice, this should be stated in the sworn statement. Also, if the advice is unfavorable, the marriage license shall not be issued until after three months following the completion of the publication of the application for the marriage license. No parental consent or parental advice needed if both parties are of legal age that is ages 26 and above.

Authenticated certificate of live birth (Birth certificate). This can be requested through NSO together with the CENOMAR.

Counseling and Family Planning Seminar. This is necessary before you can get your marriage license. Without certification that you have attended the said seminar in your municipality, your marriage license will not be issued for three months.

These are the requirements needed to be attached in your marriage license application. Please be informed that this information is just a simple guidelines and it is important that you coordinate with your local civil registrar for your proper reference before making any wedding plans.

Note: Marriage License in the Philippines is valid for 120 days from the date of issue.