If you plan to get married, you must make an official notification of your marriage plans in Zoetermeer. This process is called notice of intended marriage or marriage declaration.
What does notice of intended marriage entail?
Notice of intended marriage is the formal announcement to the municipality that you wish to marry. The Municipality of Zoetermeer then checks whether you meet the legal requirements to enter into marriage.
When must you file notice of intended marriage?
- At least 14 days before the planned wedding date
- At most 12 months before the wedding date
- In the Municipality of Zoetermeer, if you wish to marry there
Which documents do you need?
| Document | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Valid proof of identity | Passport or ID card |
| Birth certificate | Or an extract from the Personal Records Database with birth information |
| Proof of unmarried status | Often required for a foreign partner |
| Divorce decree | If previously married |
| Consent declaration | In case of minority or guardianship |
Documents from abroad
For documents originating from abroad, additional requirements often apply:
- They must be legalised or provided with an apostille
- A translation by a sworn translator may be required
- They are often not older than six months
What happens after notice of intended marriage?
Once the notification has been approved, you can in Zoetermeer:
- Reserve a date and time for the marriage ceremony
- Confirm the location for the wedding ceremony
- Designate witnesses (between 2 and 4 persons)
Frequently asked questions about notice of intended marriage in Zoetermeer
Is it mandatory for both partners to be present at the notice of intended marriage?
This depends on the rules in Zoetermeer. Sometimes one partner suffices, but in other cases both must be present. Contact the municipality for clarification.
Are there costs associated with notice of intended marriage?
In general, there are no specific costs for notice of intended marriage; these are often included in the total marriage costs. However, costs may arise for providing documents.
Can the Municipality of Zoetermeer refuse our marriage?
Yes, if you do not meet the legal requirements, such as too close family ties or an existing marriage.
How long does approval of notice of intended marriage take?
The Municipality of Zoetermeer has two weeks by law to process the notice of intended marriage, but it is often arranged faster. You will receive confirmation once everything is approved. With foreign documents, the process may take longer due to additional checks.
What if I do not have a document or submit it incompletely?
Missing or incorrect documents may result in the notice of intended marriage not being approved. The municipality will inform you of what is still needed. This can cause delays, so check in advance which papers you need to bring.
Can notice of intended marriage be filed in a municipality other than Zoetermeer?
No, you must file notice of intended marriage in the municipality where you wish to marry, so in Zoetermeer if that is your wedding location. For non-residents, there are sometimes options to make an appointment online or by telephone; inquire about this with the municipality.