Notice of Intended Marriage in Amsterdam
The notice of intended marriage is the essential first step for getting married in Amsterdam. At the Municipality of Amsterdam, you announce the date and time of your wedding. The civil registrar checks for any legal impediments and posts a public announcement in the city hall, allowing others to raise objections. This process takes at least 14 days and is required for a legally valid marriage.
Legal basis
The procedure for the notice of intended marriage is set out in the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), Book 1, Title 5 (Articles 30-58). Key articles include:
- Article 44 DCC: The civil registrar maintains a register of all planned marriages.
- Article 45 DCC: Submission no later than 14 days before the wedding date.
- Article 46 DCC: Publication at least 14 days before the ceremony in a visible location at the city hall.
- Article 47 DCC: Third parties may lodge objections during this period if there are legal impediments, such as an existing marriage.
These provisions ensure transparency and prevent invalid unions such as bigamy. Similar rules apply to registered partnerships (Art. 80 et seq. DCC).
Who may submit the notice?
One of the partners or an authorized representative submits the notice to the Municipality of Amsterdam, regardless of your place of residence. Both must be of legal age or emancipated (Art. 31 DCC). For non-Dutch nationals, visa and residence requirements also apply.
Conditions for the partners
- Both competent to marry (Art. 30 DCC): no blood relation or existing marriage.
- No guardianship without court permission.
- Minors require parental or Amsterdam District Court consent (Art. 36-38 DCC).
Required documents
For the notice of intended marriage in Amsterdam, various documents are required depending on the circumstances. Standard list:
| Document | For whom | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ID card or passport | Both partners | Valid, not older than 5 years. |
| Birth certificate | Both partners | Max. 6 months old, from place of birth. |
| Proof of end of previous marriage | Divorced/widowed | Divorce decree or death certificate. |
| Statement of no guardianship | If applicable | From Amsterdam District Court. |
| Residence permit | Non-Dutch nationals | Visa or legalization sometimes required. |
Download the checklist from the Municipality of Amsterdam. Foreign documents must be translated and legalized.
Step-by-step procedure in Amsterdam
- Schedule an appointment: Via amsterdam.nl or by phone, at least 14 days in advance – Amsterdam venues fill up quickly.
- Submit the notice: In person with all documents. Fee: approx. €10-20 at the Municipality of Amsterdam.
- Registrar's review: Check for impediments in the Personal Records Database (BRP).
- Public announcement: List with names, dates of birth, and wedding date displayed in Amsterdam city hall (14 days).
- Objection period: 14 days; no issues? Green light for the ceremony.
- Wedding ceremony: With civil registrar and witnesses at the chosen location.
Practical cases from Amsterdam
Case 1: Anna (NL) and Ben (DE) plan a wedding in Amsterdam. Notice submitted three weeks in advance to the Municipality of Amsterdam; Ben's legalized certificate is in order. Smooth ceremony after publication.
Case 2: Karel, recently divorced, and Lisa in Amsterdam. Divorce decree initially missing; success after submission.
Case 3: Partner with criminal record? No issue, unless under guardianship. Existing partnership does block.
Rights and obligations
Rights:
- Check the announcement at city hall.
- Lodge objections if suspicions arise (Art. 47 DCC).
- Free advice via Amsterdam Legal Aid Desk or municipality.
Obligations:
- Provide accurate information; fraud is punishable (Art. 225 Criminal Code).
- Submit on time; otherwise, postponement.
- Supply authentic documents.
Frequently asked questions
Online submission possible?
No, in person at the Municipality of Amsterdam. Appointments can be made digitally via amsterdam.nl.
Objection lodged?
Registrar assesses; if valid, it blocks; if not, proceed.
Extras for foreigners?
Yes, residence documents. Consult IND or embassy; see Getting Married in the Netherlands.
Cost overview?
Notice €8-20; ceremony €100-€1000, higher for premium Amsterdam locations.
Tips for Amsterdam
- Book early: 3-6 months ahead; canal and museum weddings are popular and book up fast.
- Arrange documents: Request early from municipality or consulate.
- Matrimonial property regime: Notary for asset protection; link Matrimonial Property Regime.
- Foreign marriage? Check recognition at Amsterdam District Court.
- For personal advice: Amsterdam Legal Aid Desk.