Notice of Intended Marriage in Den Haag
The notice of intended marriage is the essential first step toward marriage in Den Haag. At the Gemeente Den Haag, you announce your intention to marry on a specific date and time. The civil registrar checks for legal impediments and publishes the notice, allowing others to file objections. This process takes at least 14 days and is mandatory for a valid marriage in the residence.
Legal Basis
The rules governing the notice of intended marriage are laid down in the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), Book 1, Title 5 (articles 30-58). Key provisions include:
- Article 44 DCC: The civil registrar in Den Haag maintains a register of intended marriages.
- Article 45 DCC: The notice must be submitted no later than 14 days before the wedding date.
- Article 46 DCC: The publication must be displayed at least 14 days prior to the ceremony in Den Haag city hall.
- Article 47 DCC: Any person may lodge an objection during this period if legal impediments are suspected, such as an existing marriage.
These requirements ensure transparency and prevent bigamy or invalid unions. Similar rules apply to registered partnerships (art. 80 et seq. DCC). For advice, contact the Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Who Can File the Notice in Den Haag?
One of the prospective spouses or an authorized representative submits the notice to the Gemeente Den Haag, where the marriage will take place—not necessarily your place of residence. Both partners must be of legal age or emancipated (art. 31 DCC). Foreign nationals must meet visa and residence requirements.
Conditions for Spouses
- Both must be competent to marry (art. 30 DCC): no close family ties or existing marriage.
- No guardianship without court approval.
- Minors require parental or Rechtbank Den Haag consent (art. 36-38 DCC).
Required Documents
For the notice at the Gemeente Den Haag, you will need various documents depending on your situation. Standard documents:
| Document | For Whom? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Valid ID | Both partners | Passport/ID card, no older than 5 years. |
| Birth certificate | Both partners | No older than 6 months, from place of birth. |
| Proof of end of prior marriage | Divorced/widowed | Divorce decree or death certificate. |
| Statement of no guardianship | If applicable | From the district court of Rechtbank Den Haag. |
| Residence permit | Foreign nationals | Visa; legalization sometimes required. |
Consult the checklist on the Gemeente Den Haag website. Foreign documents must be legalized and translated.
Step-by-Step Procedure in Den Haag
- Schedule appointment: Via the Gemeente Den Haag website or phone, at least 14 days in advance.
- Submit notice: In person with documents. Fee: approx. €10-20.
- Registrar's review: Checks for impediments in the Personal Records Database (BRP).
- Publication: List with names, dates of birth, and wedding date displayed in Den Haag city hall (14 days).
- Objection period: 14 days; no issues? Marriage proceeds.
- Solemnization: With registrar and witnesses in Den Haag.
Practical Examples from Den Haag
Example 1: Anna (Dutch) and Ben (German) opt for marriage in Den Haag. They file the notice three weeks ahead at the civil registry. Ben's legalized documents pass review; the ceremony follows smoothly after publication.
Example 2: Karel, recently divorced, and Lisa apply. It fails initially without the divorce decree; success follows upon submission.
Example 3: Partner with a criminal record? No issue unless under guardianship. An existing partnership may trigger objections.
Rights and Obligations
Rights:
- Verify the public notice in city hall.
- File objections if in doubt (art. 47 DCC).
- Free advice from Gemeente Den Haag or Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Obligations:
- Provide accurate information; false statements are punishable (art. 225 Criminal Code).
- File on time; otherwise, delays occur.
- Ensure documents are authenticated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the notice be filed online in Den Haag?
No, in person at the civil registry of Gemeente Den Haag. Online appointment booking is available.
Objection filed?
Registrar reviews; if valid, marriage is halted. Otherwise, it proceeds.
Foreign nationals in Den Haag?
Additional documents like residence permits required. Check IND/embassy. See Marrying in the Netherlands.
Costs in Den Haag?
Notice €8-€20; solemnization €100-€1000, depending on day and location.
Tips for Den Haag
- Plan ahead: Book dates 3 months in advance; Den Haag venues fill up quickly.
- Check documents: Request certificates in time from municipality or embassy.
- Matrimonial property regime: Arrange notarially for finances; see Matrimonial Property Regime.
- Foreign marriage?: Additional rules apply; consult Juridisch Loket Den Haag.