Notice of Intended Marriage in Rotterdam

Notice of Intended Marriage in Rotterdam

The notice of intended marriage marks the official start of a marriage in the Netherlands, specifically with the Municipality of Rotterdam. Here, you announce your intention to marry on a specific date and time in Rotterdam. The civil registrar checks for legal impediments and publishes the announcement in the city hall, allowing others to raise objections. This process lasts at least 14 days and is essential for a legally valid marriage.

Legal Basis

This procedure is set out in the Civil Code (CC), Book 1, Title 5 (articles 30-58). Relevant provisions include:

• Article 44 CC: The civil registrar in Rotterdam maintains a register of all planned marriages.
• Article 45 CC: The notice must be filed no later than 14 days before the wedding date.
• Article 46 CC: The publication must be displayed visibly in the Rotterdam city hall for at least 14 days.
• Article 47 CC: Anyone may lodge an objection during that period with the District Court of Rotterdam if there are legal impediments, such as an existing marriage.

These rules ensure transparency and prevent bigamy or invalid unions. Similar provisions apply to registered partnerships (art. 80 et seq. CC).

Who Can File the Notice in Rotterdam?

One of the partners or an authorized representative files the notice with the civil registry of the Municipality of Rotterdam, regardless of your place of residence. Both must be of legal age or emancipated (art. 31 CC). Expats in this port city face additional residency requirements.

Conditions for Partners

• Both must be capable of marriage (art. 30 CC): no close family ties or existing marriage.
• No guardianship without permission from the District Court of Rotterdam.
• Minors require parental or court approval (art. 36-38 CC).

Required Documents

For filing the notice with the Municipality of Rotterdam, these documents are standardly required, depending on your situation:

Download the checklist at rotterdam.nl. Foreign documents must be translated and legalized.

Step-by-Step Procedure in Rotterdam

1. Schedule Appointment: Via rotterdam.nl or by phone, at least 14 days in advance.
2. Submit Notice: In person with all documents. Fee: approx. €10-20.
3. Registrar's Review: Check via BRP for any impediments.
4. Publication: List with names, dates of birth, and wedding date displayed in city hall (14 days).
5. Objection Period: 14 days; no issues? Marriage proceeds.
6. Ceremony: Performed by civil registrar with witnesses at a location in Rotterdam.

Practical Examples from Rotterdam

Example 1: Maria (Rotterdam resident) and Carlos (Spanish national) plan a city hall wedding. They file notice three weeks ahead with the civil registry. Carlos's legalized documents are approved; the ceremony follows publication.

Example 2: Recently divorced Pieter and Sophie file notice. Missing divorce decree causes a delay, but it succeeds after submission.

Example 3: Partner with prior history? No problem unless under guardianship via District Court of Rotterdam; an ongoing partnership will block it.

Rights and Obligations

Rights:

• Inspect the announcement in city hall.
• File an objection with District Court of Rotterdam (art. 47 CC).
• Free advice from Rotterdam Legal Aid Office.

Obligations:

• Provide accurate information; fraud is punishable (art. 225 Criminal Code).
• File notice in time to avoid delays.
• Supply authentic documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for Rotterdam Residents

• Plan Ahead: Book 3 months in advance; dates in the iconic city hall fill up fast.
• Prepare Documents: Request certificates early from Municipality of Rotterdam or embassy.
• Matrimonial Property Agreement: Consult a notary for financial protection; advice at Matrimonial Property Agreements.
• International Marriage?: Check visa rules; visit Rotterdam Legal Aid Office for free assistance.