Marriage Registration for Foreigners in Hong Kong

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If you’re a foreigner planning to get married in Hong Kong, you’re in the right place.

Hong Kong is a popular destination for marriage registration due to its straightforward legal process, international recognition of marriage certificates, and efficient administrative system.

Whether you’re marrying another foreign national or seeking an alternative to marriage registration in mainland China, this guide will walk you through the entire process.

Why Choose Hong Kong for Marriage Registration?

Hong Kong offers a streamlined process for marriage registration, making it an attractive option for foreigners.

Key benefits include:

  • International Recognition: Marriage certificates issued in Hong Kong are widely recognized worldwide.
  • Efficient Process: The process is relatively quick and well-organized.
  • No Residency Requirement: You don’t need to be a resident of Hong Kong to get married there.

Requirements for Marriage in Hong Kong

To get married in Hong Kong, you must meet the following requirements:

  1. Minimum Age: The legal age for marriage is 16. If either party is between 16 and 21, written consent from a parent or legal guardian is required.
  2. No Legal Impediments: Both parties must affirm that there are no legal hindrances to the marriage (e.g., existing marriages, close kinship).
  3. Valid Documents: You must provide the necessary documents (see below).

Documents Required for Marriage Registration

To successfully register your marriage in Hong Kong, prepare the following documents:

  1. Passports: Valid passports of both parties.
  2. Proof of Termination of Previous Marriages (if applicable):
    • Divorce decree or certificate of annulment.
    • Death certificate of a previous spouse (for widows/widowers).
  3. Notarized and Apostilled Documents:
    • If your documents are issued outside Hong Kong or Macau, they must be notarized and apostilled. For example, in the U.S., the Secretary of State provides apostille services.
    • Mainland China does not participate in the apostille system. Instead, documents must be notarized and authenticated by a local notary.

Note: Documents in languages other than English or Chinese may need to be translated and certified.

Step-by-Step Process: How to Get Married in Hong Kong

Follow these steps to complete your marriage registration:

  1. Submit a Notice of Intended Marriage:
    • At least 15 days and no more than 3 months before your wedding, submit a “Notice of Intended Marriage” to the Marriage Registration and Records Office in Hong Kong.
    • You can request the form via email at [email protected] or by calling the Immigration Department hotline at (+852) 2824 6111 (available daily from 7 am to 11 pm).
  2. Authenticate the Notice:
    • Both parties must sign the notice form and have it authenticated by a Notary Public in their city of residence.
    • If the parties live in different cities, only the party submitting the notice needs to have it authenticated.
  3. Send the Documents:
    • Mail the completed notice, supporting documents, and a bank draft of H$305 (payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region”) to:
      The Marriage Registration and Records Office
      3/F, Low Block
      Queensway Government Offices
      66 Queensway
      Hong Kong
    • If the bank draft is not in Hong Kong currency, include an additional H$100 for currency exchange. Sending cash by mail is prohibited.
  4. Book an Appointment:
  5. Attend the Marriage Ceremony:
    • On the day of your wedding, both parties must bring their original documents and travel documents to the ceremony.

Where Can You Get Married in Hong Kong?

You can choose from three options for your marriage ceremony:

  1. Marriage Registry:
    • Conducted by the Registrar of Marriages at a government office.
    • You can indicate your preferred date and location when submitting your notice.
  2. Licensed Place of Worship:
    • Officiated by a competent minister in a licensed religious venue.
  3. Civil Celebrant of Marriages:
    • Conducted by a civil celebrant at any location in Hong Kong. This option offers flexibility for couples who want a private or unique venue.

Apostille and Notarization: What You Need to Know

If your documents are issued outside Hong Kong or Macau, they must be notarized and apostilled.

Here’s how it works:

  • Apostille System: Recognized in Hong Kong and Macau. For example, in the U.S., the Secretary of State provides apostille services.
  • Mainland China: Since China does not participate in the apostille system, documents must be notarized and authenticated by a local notary.

For more information on the apostille process, visit the Hague Apostille Convention website.

Estimated Timeline and Costs

Here’s a rough timeline and cost breakdown for marriage registration in Hong Kong:

  1. Notice of Intended Marriage: Submit at least 15 days before the wedding.
  2. Processing Time: Typically 2-3 weeks for document verification.
  3. Marriage Ceremony: Can be scheduled within 1-3 months of submitting the notice.

Costs:

  • Notice of Intended Marriage: H$305
  • Additional bank handling fee (if applicable): H$100
  • Notarization and apostille fees: Varies by country
  • Civil celebrant fees (if applicable): Varies

Common Challenges and Tips

  1. Document Rejections: Ensure all documents are complete, notarized, and apostilled (if required).
  2. Language Barriers: If you’re not fluent in English or Chinese, consider hiring a translator or legal consultant.
  3. Appointment Quotas: Marriage registries have limited slots, so book early to secure your preferred date.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can same-sex couples marry in Hong Kong?
    • No, same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in Hong Kong as of now.
  2. Do I need to be a resident of Hong Kong to get married there?
    • No, there is no residency requirement for marriage registration in Hong Kong.
  3. What happens if my documents are incomplete?
    • Your application may be delayed or rejected. Double-check all requirements before submission.

Additional Resources

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to register your marriage in Hong Kong. Congratulations on your upcoming union, and best wishes for your future together!