Guide to Registry Offices in Hong Kong for Marriage Registration
Getting married in Hong Kong involves several steps, including choosing a registry office, submitting a Notice of Intended Marriage, and scheduling your wedding ceremony. Here's a simple guide to help you through the process.
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1. Overview of Marriage Registration in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, marriage registration is governed by the Marriage Ordinance. The minimum legal age for marriage is 16 years, and there are no residential or nationality requirements for marrying parties.
To register a marriage, you must:
- Submit a Notice of Intended Marriage to the Registrar of Marriages.
- Wait for the notice to be publicly displayed for at least 15 clear days.
- Obtain a Certificate of Registrar of Marriages.
- Conduct the wedding ceremony within three months of submitting the notice.
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2. List of Registry Offices in Hong Kong
Here are the main registry offices where you can submit your Notice of Intended Marriage and hold your wedding ceremony:
Marriage Registries:
1. City Hall Marriage Registry
- Location: 3/F, Low Block, Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway, Hong Kong.
- Special Features: Popular for its iconic location and spacious ceremony halls.
2. Cotton Tree Drive Marriage Registry
- Location: Cotton Tree Drive, Central, Hong Kong.
- Special Features: Known for its scenic surroundings and elegant setting.
3. Tsim Sha Tsui Marriage Registry
- Location: 1/F, Tsim Sha Tsui Government Offices, 1 Kimberley Street, Tsim Sha Tsui.
- Special Features: Convenient location in Kowloon.
4. Sha Tin Marriage Registry
- Location: 1/F, Sha Tin Government Offices, 1 Sheung Wo Che Road, Sha Tin.
- Special Features: Ideal for residents in the New Territories.
5. Tuen Mun Marriage Registry
- Location: 1/F, Tuen Mun Government Offices, 1 Tuen Hi Road, Tuen Mun.
- Special Features: Serves the western New Territories.
Marriage Registration and Records Office:
- Location: 3/F, Low Block, Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway, Hong Kong.
- Special Features: Handles notices for weddings at licensed places of worship or ceremonies conducted by civil celebrants.
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3. How to Submit a Notice of Intended Marriage
To submit a Notice of Intended Marriage, follow these steps:
1. Make an Appointment
- Book online via the GovHK website or call the 24-hour hotline at (852) 3102 3883.
2. Prepare Required Documents
- Hong Kong ID cards or valid travel documents for both parties.
- Personal details (names, addresses, occupations, etc.).
- Additional documents for minors, divorced individuals, or widows/widowers.
3. Submit the Notice
- Attend the selected registry office in person or through a civil celebrant.
- Pay the prescribed fee of HK$305.
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4. Booking a Wedding Ceremony
After submitting the notice, you can book a wedding ceremony at your chosen registry office.
1. Choose a Date and Time
- Ceremonies must be held within three months of submitting the notice and at least 15 days after the notice is displayed.
2. Reserve a Ceremony Hall
- For popular venues like City Hall or Cotton Tree Drive, book early to secure your preferred date and time.
3. Prepare for the Ceremony
- Bring two witnesses (aged 18 or above) and required documents (e.g., Certificate of Registrar of Marriages).
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5. Fees and Additional Costs
- Notice of Intended Marriage: HK$305.
- Marriage Ceremony at Registry Office:
- Weekdays (Monday to Saturday morning): HK$715.
- Weekends and public holidays: HK$1,935.
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6. Tips for a Smooth Process
- Plan Ahead: Popular venues like City Hall and Cotton Tree Drive require early booking.
- Check Office Hours: Registry offices are closed on public holidays.
- Consider a Civil Celebrant: For more flexibility in venue and timing.
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7. Contact Information
For further inquiries, contact the Marriage Registration and Records Office:
- Address: 3/F, Low Block, Queensway Government Offices, 66 Queensway, Hong Kong.
- Phone: (852) 3102 3883.
- Email: enquiry@immd.gov.hk.
By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth and memorable marriage registration experience in Hong Kong. For more details, visit the Immigration Department website or the GovHK portal.
