Civil marriage in Kenya is a widely recognized form of union under the Marriage Act of 2014, alongside customary, Hindu, Islamic, and Christian marriages. A civil marriage is officiated by a government official and is designed to cater to couples who prefer a simple, secular, and legally binding process.
This guide explains everything you need to know about civil marriages in Kenya, including the requirements, procedures, costs, and contacts for the Registrar of Marriages.
What is a Civil Marriage?
Civil marriage is a union performed by a government official, such as the Registrar of Marriages, Deputy County Commissioner, or Assistant County Commissioner. These marriages are monogamous by law, and they must be officiated in government offices or other designated venues.
Who Can Apply for a Civil Marriage?
Civil marriages are open to:
- Kenyan citizens.
- A Kenyan national and a foreigner.
- Two foreign nationals residing in Kenya.
- Refugees with valid documentation.
Types of Civil Marriages
Civil marriages can be conducted under two categories:
- By Notice – A 21-day waiting period is required.
- By Special License – Designed for couples who cannot provide the standard 21-day notice.
Requirements for Civil Marriage by Notice (For Kenyan Nationals)
To apply for a civil marriage through notice, both parties must provide:
- Original and copies of valid ID cards or passports.
- Coloured passport-size photos (both parties).
- Death certificate if widowed or divorce decree absolute if previously married.
- Affidavit confirming marital status if the divorce decree or death certificate is older than two years.
- A fee of Kshs 3,900 for the entire process.
Procedure for Civil Marriage by Notice
- Visit the Registrar of Marriages Office
- Fill out a Notice of Intention to Marry form (costs Kshs 200).
- 21-Day Waiting Period
- The notice is displayed for 21 days to allow for any objections.
- Fill the Affidavit and Marriage Certificate Form
- After 21 days, fill an affidavit under Section 11 of the Marriage Act and have it commissioned by the registrar.
- Payment and Booking a Date
- Pay Kshs 1,500 to book a wedding date. The ceremony must occur within three months after giving notice.
- Wedding Ceremony
- Attend the ceremony at the Registrar’s office with two witnesses.
- Receive the Marriage Certificate
- A marriage certificate is issued in duplicate, with one copy retained at the Attorney General’s office.
Requirements for Civil Marriage by Special License
1. Both Parties are Kenyan Nationals
- Original and copies of ID/passport.
- Birth certificates.
- Proof of marital status (affidavit, death certificate if widowed, or divorce decree absolute if divorced).
- Documented reason for inability to provide a 21-day notice.
- Coloured passport-size photos.
- Fee:
- Kshs 9,700 (Registrar’s office).
- Kshs 16,700 (garden ceremony).
2. One Party is a Foreign National
For the Kenyan National:
- ID or passport.
- Birth certificate.
- Affidavit confirming marital status.
- Coloured passport-size photo.
For the Foreign National:
- Passport (original and copies).
- Birth certificate.
- Affidavit of no impediment to marriage.
- Return air ticket, visa, or work permit.
- Coloured passport-size photo.
Fee:
- Kshs 9,700 (Registrar’s office).
- Kshs 16,700 (garden ceremony).
3. Both Parties are Foreign Nationals
- Valid passports (copies and original).
- Birth certificates.
- Certificate of no impediment to marriage.
- Coloured passport-size photos.
- Return air ticket, visa, or work permit.
Fee:
- Kshs 9,700 (Registrar’s office).
- Kshs 16,700 (garden ceremony).
Civil Marriage for Refugees
Refugees intending to marry under a civil system must provide:
- A UNHCR refugee mandate or alien card.
- Affidavit confirming marital status (if applying for a special license).
Key Contacts for Civil Marriages
Civil marriages in Kenya are conducted at the Registrar of Marriages office located at:
- Sheria House, Ground Floor, Harambee Avenue, Nairobi.
- Phone: 020 222 7461 or 0700 072 929.
- Email: info@ag.go.ke.
Common Questions About Civil Marriages in Kenya
1. How Long Does a Civil Marriage Take?
For marriages by notice, the process takes approximately 3-4 weeks (including the 21-day notice period). For marriages by special license, the timeline depends on the availability of supporting documents and the couple’s urgency.
2. Are Civil Marriages Legally Binding?
Yes, civil marriages are legally binding and recognized under Kenyan law. The issued marriage certificate serves as proof of the union.
3. Can Civil Marriages Be Dissolved?
Yes, civil marriages can be dissolved through a court process following the provisions of the Marriage Act, 2014. Grounds for divorce include adultery, cruelty, or irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.
Why Choose a Civil Marriage?
Civil marriage is ideal for couples who:
- Prefer a cost-effective and straightforward process.
- Want a non-religious ceremony.
- Require legal recognition of their union for visa or work-related purposes.
Getting married? Ensure your journey begins on the right legal footing! Visit the Registrar of Marriages at Sheria House today or contact their offices for detailed guidance on civil marriage requirements.
For a hassle-free experience, ensure you have all your documents ready and double-check the required fees. Remember, your love story deserves a strong legal foundation!
