Free Marriage in Den Haag
In Den Haag, you can enter into a free marriage through special arrangements offered by the Municipality of Den Haag, designed for residents with low income. This provision ensures equal access to civil marriage but comes with certain requirements. This article covers the local rules, steps, and helpful tips for residents of Den Haag.
What does a free marriage in Den Haag involve?
Civil marriage is the only legally valid way to marry in the Netherlands, including in Den Haag. Normally, you pay fees to the civil registry officer, plus any additional charges for a special location or time. With a free marriage, the Municipality of Den Haag waives or reduces these costs for couples facing financial constraints. This often means a simple ceremony at the city hall on Burgemeester de Monchyplein, without extras. The goal is to remove financial barriers so that no one is prevented from getting married.
Note: This covers only the core costs, not items like witness travel or a reception. According to Statistics Netherlands (CBS), many couples in the region get married each year, and a portion of Den Haag residents with limited means take advantage of this waiver through the local civil registry.
Legal basis
Marriage rules are outlined in Book 1 of the Civil Code (BW), particularly Title 5 on marriage. Article 1:30 BW states that marriage must be civil and performed by a civil registry officer. Fees fall under the Municipalities Act (Article 229), which allows municipalities to collect charges for official services.
The Municipality of Den Haag applies a waiver policy based on the Act on the Civil Registry and the General Administrative Law Act (Awb). The Policy Rules for Remission of Municipal Taxes and Fees link this to income and assets. In 2023, standard fees for a marriage in Den Haag range from €550-€750, but with a waiver, this drops to €0. Check the Municipality of Den Haag's website for current rates, or visit the Legal Aid Office in Den Haag for free advice.
Conditions for waiver in Den Haag
To qualify for a free marriage in Den Haag, you must meet certain requirements, such as:
- A total income below the social assistance threshold (for example, €1,250 net per month for a single person in 2023).
- Limited assets (generally up to €20,000-€30,000, depending on the situation).
- No additional income that exceeds the limit.
- Often, proof of social assistance, benefits, or minimal income through the municipality is required.
Couples with children, refugees, or in urgent situations (such as cases handled by the District Court of Den Haag) may receive extra priority.
Step-by-step guide for a free marriage in Den Haag
Here's how to arrange it in Den Haag:
- Start the application: Schedule an appointment with the civil registry of the Municipality of Den Haag at least 6 months in advance.
- Submit required documents: Provide passports, birth certificates, and a declaration of marital eligibility (confirming you are free to marry).
- Apply for waiver: Complete the local form with your financial details; the municipality decides within 4-6 weeks.
- Book the ceremony: Choose a basic date and time slot; options for officers or venues are limited.
- The ceremony: Bring two witnesses; the proceeding lasts about 10-15 minutes at the Den Haag city hall.
The process typically takes 3-5 months. If denied, you can file an objection under the Awb (Article 7:1), possibly with help from the Legal Aid Office in Den Haag.
Practical examples in Den Haag
Take Marieke and Tom, a couple from Schilderswijk with a combined net income of €1,600 and social assistance benefits. They can't afford the €650 fee and apply for a waiver with the Municipality of Den Haag. After reviewing their benefits and savings, the municipality approves a free ceremony on a weekday morning. They marry simply with family as witnesses – just the basics, without extra costs.
In Den Haag, the municipality offers a 'social marriage facility' for vulnerable groups. For instance, a single parent with two children and an income of €1,100 can arrange a free marriage, including registration in the Basic Registration of Persons (BRP) with the municipality.
Cost overview for Den Haag:
| Type of marriage | Costs (local average) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard marriage | €550-€900 | No financial check |
| Free marriage (waiver) | €0 | Low income + local application |
| Evening or weekend marriage | €750-€1,200 | No waiver available |
Rights and obligations
A free marriage in Den Haag has the same legal value as a paid one: it is fully recognized, with an extract for the BRP. You have rights to community of property (or adjustments via marital conditions, see Marital Conditions) and inheritance protections.
Obligations: Be transparent about your finances; misrepresentation could lead to fines or the waiver being revoked. Both partners must be of legal age and free of impediments (Article 1:31 BW). Report any name changes to the municipality afterward.
Frequently asked questions
Can I arrange a free marriage in Den Haag without social assistance?
Yes, it's possible. If your income stays below the social assistance threshold and your assets are low, you may qualify. Contact the Municipality of Den Haag or the Legal Aid Office in Den Haag for a personal assessment.