Notice of Intended Marriage in Delft
The notice of intended marriage marks the official start of a marriage in the Netherlands, specifically with the Municipality of Delft. Here, you announce your intention to marry on a specific date and time in Delft. The civil registrar checks for legal impediments and posts the announcement so that others can raise objections. This process lasts at least 14 days and is essential for a legally valid marriage.
Legal Basis
The rules for the notice of intended marriage are set out in the Civil Code (CC), Book 1, Title 5 (articles 30-58). Key articles include:
- Article 44 CC: The civil registrar in Delft records all intended marriages.
- Article 45 CC: The notice must be submitted at least 14 days before the wedding date to the Municipality of Delft.
- Article 46 CC: The publication must be displayed visibly in Delft town hall for at least 14 days.
- Article 47 CC: Anyone may raise objections during that period if legal impediments are suspected, such as an existing marriage.
These provisions ensure transparency and prevent bigamy or invalid marriages. Similar rules apply to registered partnerships (art. 80 et seq. CC).
Who Can Submit the Notice in Delft?
One of the partners or an authorized representative submits the notice to the Municipality of Delft, where the marriage will take place—not necessarily your place of residence. Both must be of legal age or emancipated (art. 31 CC). Foreign nationals must meet visa and residence requirements. Consult the Legal Aid Office Delft for personalized advice.
Conditions for Partners
- Both must be capable of marriage (art. 30 CC): no close family ties or existing marriage.
- No guardianship without court permission from the District Court of The Hague.
- Minors require parental or court consent (art. 36-38 CC).
Required Documents
For the notice with the Municipality of Delft, these documents are standardly required, depending on your situation:
| Document | For whom? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Valid ID | Both partners | Passport/ID card, max. 5 years old. |
| Birth certificate | Both partners | Max. 6 months old, from place of birth. |
| Certificate of termination of previous marriage | Divorced/widowed | Divorce decree from District Court of The Hague or death certificate. |
| Declaration of no guardianship | If applicable | From the district court judge of the District Court of The Hague. |
| Residence permit | Foreign nationals | Visa; legalization sometimes required. |
Download the checklist from the Municipality of Delft website. Foreign documents must be translated and legalized.
Step-by-Step Procedure in Delft
- Book an appointment: Via the Municipality of Delft website or phone, at least 14 days in advance.
- Submit the notice: Attend in person with documents. Fee: approx. €10-20.
- Registrar's review: Check for impediments in the Personal Records Database (BRP).
- Publication: Announcement with names, dates of birth, and wedding date displayed in Delft town hall (14 days).
- Objection period: 14 days; no objections? Marriage proceeds.
- Solemnization: With registrar and witnesses in Delft.
Practical Examples for Delft
Example 1: Anna (Dutch) and Ben (German) opt for a wedding in Delft. They submit the notice three weeks in advance to the civil registry of the Municipality of Delft. Ben's legalized birth certificate is accepted; the ceremony proceeds smoothly after publication.
Example 2: Karel, recently divorced, and Lisa submit in Delft. Without the divorce decree from the District Court of The Hague, it fails; after submission, it succeeds.
Example 3: Partner with a criminal record? No issue, unless under guardianship. An existing partnership may lead to objections.
Rights and Obligations
Rights:
- View the announcement in Delft town hall.
- Raise objections if impediments are suspected (art. 47 CC).
- Free advice via Legal Aid Office Delft or Municipality of Delft.
Obligations:
- Provide accurate information; false statements are punishable (art. 225 Criminal Code).
- Submit timely to avoid delays.
- Validate documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the notice be submitted online with the Municipality of Delft?
No, in person with the civil registry. Online appointment booking is possible via delft.nl.
What if there is an objection?
The registrar investigates; a valid objection halts the marriage, otherwise not.
Extras for foreigners in Delft?
Yes, residence documents. Check IND or embassy; see article on marrying in the Netherlands.
Costs in Delft?
Notice €8-€20; ceremony €100-€1000, depending on day and location.
Tips for Delft Residents
- Plan ahead: Book 3 months in advance for popular dates in Delft.
- Arrange documents: Request certificates in time from Municipality of Delft or embassy.
- Prenuptial agreement: Consider a notary; see our article.
- Abroad?: Extra rules; contact Legal Aid Office Delft for assistance.