Expat’s Guide to Getting Married in Singapore
Getting married in Singapore as an expat is a straightforward process, thanks to the country’s efficient legal system and clear procedures. Whether you're a foreigner marrying a Singaporean or another expat, this guide will help you navigate the steps, documents, and considerations involved.
1. Eligibility to Marry in Singapore
General Requirements:
Age: You must be at least 21 years old to marry without parental consent. If either party is between 18 and 21 years old, parental consent is required. Persons under 18 cannot marry in Singapore.
Marital Status: Both parties must be unmarried. If either has been previously married, they must provide their divorce certificate or the death certificate of their former spouse.
Mental Capacity: Both parties must have the mental capacity to consent to the marriage.
2. Documents You Need
Regardless of whether you're an expat or a Singaporean citizen, the documents required to marry in Singapore are fairly consistent. You will need:
For Both Parties:
Passport (or national identity card, if you’re a Singaporean resident)
Proof of Address (e.g., utility bills, bank statements, or lease contracts)
Certificate of No Impediment (This is a declaration from your embassy or consulate that you are free to marry. It may also be called a "Certificate of No Objection" or "Single Status Certificate." Check with your embassy for specific requirements and validity.)
Divorce or Death Certificates (If applicable)
For Non-Singaporean Citizens:
Entry Visa/Pass (If applicable, for foreigners who are residing in Singapore on a work pass, student pass, or other types of passes)
3. Marriage Registration Process
Step 1: File Notice of Marriage
Before you can marry in Singapore, you must file a Notice of Marriage with the Registry of Marriages (ROM). This notice must be filed at least 21 days before the marriage date but no more than 3 months in advance.
You can file the notice online on the official Registry of Marriages website or in person at the ROM office.
To complete the notice, you will need to:
Provide the required documents (listed above)
Pay the required registration fee (typically around SGD 42 for Singaporean citizens and Permanent Residents, and SGD 380 for foreigners)
The ROM will process your notice and confirm that you're eligible to marry.
Step 2: Wait for the 21-Day Cooling-Off Period
Once the notice is filed, a 21-day cooling-off period will begin. During this time, no marriage can take place. This is to ensure that both parties are fully aware of their decision and not under duress.
The 21 days begin after the ROM has approved the notice, so make sure you file in advance to allow time for processing.
Step 3: Marriage Ceremony
Once the notice period is complete, you can proceed to the wedding ceremony. The ROM offers two options:
Civil Marriage at the ROM Office: A simple civil ceremony performed by a licensed solemnizer at the Registry of Marriages. There is a fee for this service (usually around SGD 100).
Marriage Solemnization at Another Venue: If you prefer to get married at another location (such as a hotel or another venue), a licensed solemnizer can be appointed to perform the ceremony. You will need to arrange the venue and the solemnizer in advance.
You’ll need two witnesses, who must be at least 21 years old, to be present at the ceremony.
Step 4: Marriage Certificate
After the ceremony, you will receive a Marriage Certificate issued by the ROM. You can request multiple copies of the certificate, which will be necessary for legal and administrative purposes (such as changing your name or applying for spousal visas).
4. Language and Translation
The official languages of Singapore are English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. However, if any of your documents are not in English, you may need to provide a certified translation. Ensure that your documents are clear and in compliance with ROM’s requirements.
5. Marriage Laws and Considerations
Same-Sex Marriages: Singapore does not legally recognize same-sex marriages. However, foreign same-sex marriages are recognized for certain administrative purposes (e.g., spousal visas).
Residency Requirement: You do not need to be a resident of Singapore to marry there, but the Notice of Marriage must be filed in Singapore.
Foreign Marriages: If you get married in Singapore as an expat, the marriage will typically be recognized internationally. However, check with your home country’s embassy to confirm if any additional paperwork or registration is needed for your marriage to be recognized.
6. Post-Marriage Considerations for Expats
After the wedding, there are a few things to consider, especially if you plan to reside in Singapore with your spouse.
Spousal Visa:
If your spouse is a Singaporean citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible to apply for a Dependant Pass. This will allow you to live and work in Singapore.
If your spouse is a foreigner on a work pass or other employment pass, you may be able to apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass or other appropriate visas.
Name Changes:
If either of you decides to change your surname after marriage, you’ll need to update it with relevant authorities such as the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), bank accounts, and other institutions.
Financial Considerations:
If you're from a different country, make sure you understand how marriage might affect your taxes, inheritance laws, and other financial matters. Singapore does not impose a marriage tax or inheritance tax, which can be beneficial for international couples.
7. Wedding Celebrations and Options
While the legal procedures are straightforward, many expats opt for a more extravagant celebration. Singapore offers a range of wedding options, from luxurious hotel venues to charming outdoor locations.
Popular Venues:
Hotels: The Fullerton Hotel, Marina Bay Sands, Raffles Hotel, and many others are popular wedding venues for expats looking for a grand celebration.
Outdoor Locations: Singapore’s parks, beaches, and botanical gardens are also great options for a more intimate setting.
Wedding Planners: Many expats opt for local wedding planners who can help organize everything from the ceremony to the reception, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
8. Costs and Fees
Here’s a general breakdown of the costs involved in marrying in Singapore:
Notice of Marriage Filing: SGD 42 for Singaporeans and PRs, SGD 380 for foreigners
Civil Marriage Registration Fee: SGD 100 (for a ceremony at the ROM office)
Solemnizer’s Fees: Varies depending on the solemnizer and the location of the ceremony, typically between SGD 100 and SGD 500.
Wedding Celebration Costs: This can vary greatly depending on the scale, venue, and type of celebration, ranging from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands.
9. After the Wedding
Once you're legally married, you’ll receive your Marriage Certificate, which is the official document recognizing your marriage. You may need this document for various legal and administrative processes, including applying for dependent passes or changing your surname.
Getting married in Singapore is a straightforward and efficient process, whether you are an expat marrying a local or another expat. By preparing the necessary documents, adhering to the notice period, and following the required steps, you can ensure that your marriage is legally recognized in Singapore. The city offers a variety of options for your ceremony, from simple civil weddings to lavish celebrations, making it an ideal place to start your married life.
