Registering a Marriage in Easy-to-Read Language

Are you planning to get married?

Then you must register this with the civil registry office.

The civil registry office will check:
Are you legally permitted to marry?

• Who can file for marriage? 
• Who is not allowed to marry? 
• Where do you register your marriage? 
• What do you need to register? 
• What are the costs? 
• Where can you get help and advice?

You can register your marriage if

• you are of legal age. 
  This means:
  Both individuals are at least 18 years old. 
• Both individuals consent to the marriage.

Some people are not allowed to marry each other.

For example:

• Parents and children
• Siblings
• Half-siblings

This also applies if someone was adopted. 

In addition:
A person may only be married once.

The previous marriage must be dissolved before entering into a new one. 

For example:

• through a divorce
• or because the former partner has died

You can register at the civil registry office.

For example:

• at your place of residence
• or at your partner’s place of residence

You do not have to get married
where you register your marriage.

The wedding ceremony can take place at any civil registry office in Germany. 

Important:
A civil wedding at a registry office and a church wedding are two different things.

You'll need some documents to register. 

For example:

• ID card or passport
• Birth certificate

If you have ever been married, 

or have been in a civil partnership:

• Marriage certificate
• Divorce decree
• Or proof of dissolution of a civil partnership

If you are a widow or widower: 

• Marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate
• Death certificate of your former partner

If you have children: 

• Birth certificates for the children

If a partner is from abroad: 

• Identity card, passport, or proof of identity
• Proof of citizenship
• Residence registration certificate
• Birth certificate
• Certificate of no impediment to marriage
• Foreign-language documents with German translations

The registry office may require additional documents. 

Please inquire there.

The costs vary by state.

Check with the registry office.

They will tell you the exact costs.

Do you have questions about registering your marriage?

If so, the civil registry office can help you. 

Not sure which registry office has jurisdiction?

Then search online for:
“Registry office + your city”