Marriage Notice Requirements in Westland
The marriage notice, often referred to as banns, is the official notification to the civil registry of the Municipality of Westland about your planned marriage. This essential process prepares your wedding in Westland. Missing documents will prevent the ceremony from taking place. Here you will find everything about required paperwork, steps, and local tips for residents of Westland.
What does a marriage notice involve?
By submitting the marriage notice, you formally inform the civil registry of the Municipality of Westland that you and your partner intend to marry. Submit it at least 14 days before the wedding date at the venue, such as in 's-Gravenzande or Naaldwijk. There is no upper time limit. Both partners must appear in person, or an authorized representative may handle it.
This review rules out any impediments, such as existing marriages or close family relationships. Approval results in a certified extract for your wedding day.
Legal Framework
Civil Code Book 1 (BW1), articles 38-44, governs this process. Article 1:38 BW1: the registrar reviews the notice. Article 1:39 BW1: basic details; 1:40 BW1: required proofs.
Additionally, the Act of 9 July 2009 on equal marriage rights and the Registration of Non-Native Children Act for newcomers. For international couples: Hague Marriage Convention (1902).
Required Documents for Westland
Depending on your background, such as nationality or prior relationships. Overview in table:
| Document | For whom? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport/ID | Both | Original, no photocopy |
| Birth certificate | Both | Max. 6 months old, from municipality of birth |
| Marital status certificate (not married/divorced/deceased partner) | Previously married | Extract from register |
| Parental consent | Under 18 | From both parents/guardian |
| Residence permit | Foreign nationals | Legalized by consulate |
| Certificate of no impediment | Foreign partners | From home country, legalized |
Registered partnership? Similar process under BW1 art. 1:80 et seq.
Step-by-Step Process in Westland
- Book an appointment at the civil registry of the Municipality of Westland via their website or phone.
- Gather documents well in advance; foreign ones can take time.
- Attend together (or authorized representative with power of attorney).
- Registrar reviews and questions intentions and relationships.
- Pay fees (€10-20 for notice, €500+ for ceremony).
- After 14-day waiting period: extract ready.
Specific Situations: Expats and Remarriage
Foreign nationals in Westland: residence permit plus apostille (Hague Convention). Non-treaty country? Consular legalization.
Remarriage: divorce decree (BW1 art. 1:162), registered. Example: Piet, divorced in 2021 in Naaldwijk, provides decree and extract for new marriage.
Your Rights and Obligations
- Municipality's duty to inform: Free explanation of requirements.
- Duty to provide truthful information: False statements punishable (BW1 art. 1:44, fine €8,100).
- Right to appeal: In case of rejection, to District Court Westland (Awb art. 7:1).
- Attendance requirement: Both parties must cooperate.
Have questions? Contact Het Juridisch Loket Westland for free advice.
Westland Examples
Example 1: Lisa and Mark from Monster, Dutch nationals. Appointment at Municipality of Westland, ID and recent birth certificates (request). Ready after 14 days.
Example 2: Sofia from Portugal and Tom from Westland. Sofia's apostilled documents and certificate of no impediment. Check for sham marriage (Aliens Act art. 3:65a).
Example 3: Young Tim (17) from 's-Gravenzande. Parents must consent; otherwise invalid (BW1 art. 1:33).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an authorized representative submit the notice?
Yes, with notarial power of attorney and ID copy. Partners sign in advance (BW1 art. 1:39 para. 2).
Missing a document?
Registrar may grant extension, but plan ahead. Request duplicates.
Applies to registered partnerships?
Yes, largely the same process.