Documents Required
| Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|
| Certified True Copy: Birth Certificate or Baptismal Certificate — both applicants | Apply online via PSA Serbilis |
| If widowed: Death Certificate of deceased spouse | From PSA |
| If previously annulled: Copy of Court Decision & Absolute Decree of Finality | From the issuing court |
| Must not be related by blood (up to 4th degree) | |
| Community Tax Certificates — both applicants | From your local Barangay Hall or City Hall |
| One 2×2 ID photo (colored or black & white) — each applicant | |
| Certificate of Family Planning and Counseling* | See note below |
| Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) | Apply online via PSA Serbilis |
* Family Planning Note: Couples 24 years and below need to attend both Family Planning Sessions and Marriage Counseling. Family Planning Sessions are scheduled for half-day within the Health Department of City Hall. Inquire from office clerks for details.
For Foreign Applicants
Valid passport — showing date and place of arrival
Certificate of legal capacity to marry — issued by respective diplomatic or consular officials
If divorced: copy of Final Decree of Absolute Divorce
Certificate of Family Planning, Marriage Counseling, and Responsible Parenthood
Legal Age Requirements
| Age | Requirement |
|---|---|
| 18 years old | Legal age to marry (male or female) |
| Below 21 years old | Requires parental consent |
| 21 years old and below 25 years old | Requires parental advice |
Important Timelines
The marriage license is issued on the 11th day after the 10-day posting period
The marriage license expires 120 days from the date it was issued
You can apply at the Local Civil Registry of the city, town, or municipality where either the bride or groom habitually resides
If you don't marry within 120 days, you must file for a new marriage license
Special case: No license is required if you and your partner have lived together as husband and wife for at least 5 years. Simply secure an affidavit to facilitate the wedding.
Registration of Certificate of Marriage
The Certificate of Marriage shall be prepared in 4 copies: 1st — Local Civil Registry · 2nd — PSA (formerly NSO) · 3rd — Solemnizing Officer / Church · 4th — The couple.
Practical reminders: Always visit your Local Civil Registrar before proceeding, as some interpret guidelines differently. Personal appearance of both parties is required. Avoid fixers — submitting IDs and personal appearance are security measures required by the government to protect couples from scammers. Verify all information regularly as requirements may change.