Marrying in the Philippines: Legal Capacity, License, Registration (2026)

Step 1: Certificate of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage

Issued by your embassy or consulate, showing you are free to marry under your own law. Supporting documents from home may need authentication first — arrange before you travel.

Step 2: Marriage licence, with a waiting period

Apply at the Local Civil Registrar where one party resides. There is a mandatory posting period before issuance — it cannot be skipped, so do not book a venue before allowing for it. Licences also expire.

Step 3: Ceremony and registration

Must be solemnised by an authorised officiant with witnesses. Afterwards, wait for the record to reach PSA and obtain the PSA copy — that is the version everything else requires.

Step 4: Recognition back home

Obtain the PSA marriage certificate, have it apostilled, and provide certified translation as required at home. Skip this and the marriage may not be recognised for spousal visas, registration or property matters.

Afterwards: 13A and status planning

A foreign spouse of a Filipino citizen can apply for the 13A, a route to permanent residence that also permits employment without a separate work permit. BI does assess the genuineness of the marriage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take?

Driven by the legal capacity certificate and the mandatory licence posting period. Allow generous time.

Can we marry at home and register here?

There is a reporting route for marriages contracted abroad. Which is better depends on where you live and your intended use.

What if I am divorced?

You need authenticated proof of dissolution. Note the Philippines does not recognise ordinary divorce, which complicates matters if the Filipino party was previously married.

When is the PSA certificate available?

After the record reaches the PSA system — not on the ceremony day.

Can we apply for 13A immediately?

After obtaining the PSA certificate; temporary residence is granted first.

Does the ceremony style matter?

Legally what matters is an authorised officiant and witnesses.

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Getting Married in the Philippines as a Foreigner: Full Procedure