Marriage Notice Documents in Delft
The marriage notice documents are the essential papers that fiancés must submit to the Municipality of Delft for their intended marriage, also known as the banns. These documents verify identity, civil status, and capacity to marry. If anything is missing or a document is invalid, the civil registrar in Delft cannot process the notice. This article provides Delft residents with a complete overview for seamless preparation.
What is a marriage notice in Delft?
The marriage notice is the official notification to the Municipality of Delft, where the marriage will take place. Both partners must appear in person. The Delft civil registrar checks for impediments such as an existing marriage or family ties. The marriage notice documents are crucial for this. Upon approval, a public notice period of 14 days follows, after which the celebration can begin. This is governed by Civil Code Book 1, Title 5.
Legal requirements for documents in Delft
The rules for marriage notice documents are set out in Article 44 of Civil Code Book 1: the notice is only accepted with all documents complete. Article 1:30 of the Civil Code covers the banns. For foreign partners, additional requirements apply under the Marriage and Registered Partnership Act and EU legislation. The Municipality of Delft follows national standards with minimal local adjustments. Check the Municipality of Delft website or the Delft Legal Aid Desk for the latest requirements, as they may change.
Required documents for Delft residents
The list varies by nationality, status, and place of residence. Below is a table of common scenarios, tailored to procedures at the Municipality of Delft.
| Situation | Required documents | Notes for Delft |
|---|---|---|
| Two Dutch nationals, unmarried |
| Request from municipality of birth; Municipality of Delft assists with BRP extracts. |
| One or both previously married/divorced |
| Divorce decree max. 1 year old; check BRP at Municipality of Delft. |
| Foreign partner |
| Consult Delft Legal Aid Desk for visa and legalization assistance. |
| Minor (16-18 years) |
| Art. 1:38 Civil Code; via District Court of The Hague if needed. |
Similar rules apply to partnerships (Art. 1:80 Civil Code).
Practical examples from Delft
Example 1: Anna (Dutch, single) and Carlos (Spanish, unmarried) want to marry in Delft. Anna provides ID and recent birth certificate. Carlos submits a legalized Spanish birth certificate (apostille), translation, and 'certificado de capacidad matrimonial'. Without this, the Municipality of Delft rejects the notice.
Example 2: Pieter, recently divorced, must bring his recent divorce decree. Without it, the registrar checks the BRP, which delayed a Delft couple by two weeks.
Example 3: After a partner's death, a death certificate is essential; an official extract takes precedence over copies.
Rights and obligations for marriage notice in Delft
Rights:
- Free submission at Municipality of Delft.
- Clear explanation from the civil registrar.
- In case of refusal: reasons provided and option to appeal to the District Court of The Hague.
Obligations:
- Appear in person (no proxy).
- Complete and timely documents.
- Accurate information; fraud is punishable under Art. 225 Criminal Code.
Frequently asked questions for Delft
Can I submit digitally in Delft?
No, personal attendance with originals is required. The Municipality of Delft sometimes offers pre-review via the online marriage portal.
Expired document?
Birth certificates max. 6 months old; request a new one from place of birth (costs €15-20). Abroad: allow 4-6 weeks.
Differences per municipality?
Basics are national, but Delft may require extras like proof of residence. See Municipality of Delft website or call the civil registry.
International marriage in Delft?
Legalization is key; assistance via Delft Legal Aid Desk or notary.
Tips for Delft residents
Avoid hassle:
- Make an appointment: 6-8 weeks in advance via Municipality of Delft marriage portal.
- Check checklist: Download from delft.nl or seek advice from Delft Legal Aid Desk.
- Start early: Especially for foreign documents.