How to Register Your Marriage as Civil, Customary, or Christian Online in Kenya

Introduction

Marriage registration in Kenya is a legal requirement that formalizes unions and secures spousal rights. Kenyan law allows marriages to be recognized under three primary categories: civil, customary, and Christian marriages. Each type has unique legal requirements, but all can be registered online through Kenya’s eCitizen portal. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of the online registration process, including necessary documents, fees, and timelines for each marriage type.

1. Overview of Marriage Registration in Kenya

Kenya’s marriage laws are governed by the Marriage Act of 2014, which consolidates rules around marriage types and registration procedures. The Act ensures that marriages meet legal requirements, making it easier for couples to access rights and benefits, from property inheritance to family health benefits. Each marriage type has specific characteristics:

• Civil Marriage: Performed by a government registrar; secular in nature.

• Customary Marriage: Follows traditional practices specific to ethnic communities.

• Christian Marriage: Conducted in a church under Christian rites by a licensed minister.

2. Registering a Civil Marriage Online

Civil marriages are neutral and secular, conducted by a government registrar. Here’s the full process for registering a civil marriage online in Kenya.

Eligibility for Civil Marriage

• Both parties must be 18 years or older.

• Must be of sound mind.

• Cannot be closely related by blood or affinity.

Required Documents

• Original and copies of national ID cards or valid passports for both parties.

• Two passport-size photos each.

• Copy of divorce decree (if previously married and divorced).

• Death certificate of a previous spouse (if widowed).

Steps for Civil Marriage Registration

1. Login to eCitizen

   • Create an eCitizen account (if you don’t have one) or log in to an existing account.

   • Choose “Office of the Attorney General and Department of Justice” from the services menu.

2. Apply for Notice of Marriage

   • Select "Apply for a Civil Marriage."

   • Fill out the “Notice of Marriage” form, which requires details such as names, ages, identification numbers, and the intended marriage date.

   • Pay the required notice fee (typically Ksh 600) and submit the application. The notice is posted publicly for 21 days.

3. Confirm Notice of Marriage

   • After the 21-day notice period, log back into eCitizen to confirm the notice status.

   • If there are no objections, proceed with scheduling a marriage appointment.

4. Schedule the Marriage Ceremony

   • Select an available date for the marriage ceremony at a government office.

   • Pay the marriage ceremony fee, which is usually around Ksh 3,900 for Kenyans and Ksh 7,200 for foreigners.

5. Attend the Marriage Ceremony

   • Arrive with two witnesses (over 18 years old) at the scheduled date and time.

   • After the ceremony, the registrar will issue a marriage certificate.

Fees and Timelines for Civil Marriage

• Notice fee: Ksh 600

• Ceremony fee: Approximately Ksh 3,900 (Kenyan citizens)

• Timeline: Usually takes 3–4 weeks, including the notice period.

3. Registering a Customary Marriage Online

Customary marriages follow traditional practices unique to Kenya’s ethnic communities. They often involve bride price payments and traditional ceremonies, recognized by the law under the Marriage Act.

Eligibility for Customary Marriage

• Both parties must be Kenyan citizens, of sound mind, and 18 or older.

• The marriage must follow the customs of the ethnic community of either spouse.

Required Documents

• National ID or passport for both spouses.

• Affidavit detailing the marriage's customs and the date the marriage took place.

• Proof of bride price payment or cultural agreements (where applicable).

Steps for Customary Marriage Registration

1. Log in to eCitizen and Select the Customary Marriage Option

   • Login to the eCitizen portal and select “Office of the Attorney General and Department of Justice.”

   • Choose “Customary Marriage Registration.”

2. Complete the Customary Marriage Declaration Form

   • Fill out the Customary Marriage Declaration form, detailing when and where the marriage was conducted.

   • Attach proof of bride price payment or a certificate from a community elder confirming the marriage customs were observed.

3. Submit Affidavits

   • Submit affidavits from both parties affirming the marriage details.

   • Both affidavits should specify the date and location of the marriage and any customs that were observed.

4. Verification and Payment

   • Pay the registration fee (around Ksh 2,500).

   • After submission, the registrar will verify the provided details and may ask for additional documents if needed.

5. Receive the Marriage Certificate

   • Upon successful verification, the registrar issues a marriage certificate, usually within 2–3 weeks.

Fees and Timelines for Customary Marriage

• Registration fee: Approximately Ksh 2,500

• Timeline: 2–3 weeks

4. Registering a Christian Marriage Online

Christian marriages in Kenya are performed by licensed clergy in churches. The marriage is conducted according to Christian rites, with certain requirements under the Marriage Act.

Eligibility for Christian Marriage

• Both individuals must be at least 18 years of age.

• Must be of sound mind and able to give consent.

• Must not be related by blood or marriage within prohibited degrees.

Required Documents

• National ID or passport for each spouse.

• Baptism certificate (optional but sometimes required by churches).

• Certificate of marriage notification or banns from the church (after a three-week notice period).

• Divorce decree (if previously married and divorced) or death certificate (if widowed).

Steps for Christian Marriage Registration

1. Visit eCitizen and Begin the Registration Process

   • Go to eCitizen, select “Office of the Attorney General and Department of Justice,” then select “Christian Marriage Registration.”

2. Obtain Church Banns or Notification of Marriage

   • Visit your church and request to have the marriage banns read for three consecutive Sundays (or obtain a notification of marriage certificate).

   • The banns serve as a formal announcement of the marriage.

3. Complete the Online Application

   • Fill out the online application for Christian Marriage Registration on eCitizen, entering details such as personal information, church details, and banns.

4. Schedule the Ceremony

   • After the notice period, choose an available date and location for the church wedding or church-sanctioned venue.

   • Confirm that the officiant (minister or clergy) is licensed to perform marriages under Kenyan law.

5. Attend the Marriage Ceremony

   • On the scheduled day, attend the church ceremony with two witnesses.

   • Following the marriage, the officiant will submit a record of the marriage to the registrar.

6. Finalize Registration and Receive Certificate

   • After the church wedding, apply for the marriage certificate online if it was not issued on-site.

   • The certificate can be collected from the Attorney General’s office after processing.

Fees and Timelines for Christian Marriage

• Notice fee: Varies based on church policy but is usually around Ksh 600 for notice.

• Ceremony fees: Dependent on church but typically Ksh 3,900.

• Timeline: Typically 3–4 weeks, including the notice period.

5. Important Considerations for Online Marriage Registration

Verification of Documents

Ensure all provided documents are genuine and accurately reflect your details. Falsified documents can result in penalties or the rejection of your marriage registration.

Choosing the Right Marriage Type

Selecting the marriage type that aligns with your cultural or religious values and legal needs is essential. Customary marriages, for instance, are ideal for couples wishing to honor traditional practices, while Christian marriages suit those with strong faith commitments.

Ensuring Both Parties are Fully Informed and Consenting

The law mandates that both parties give full, informed consent without any form of coercion. Before applying, ensure both individuals are in agreement and understand the type of marriage being registered.

Impact on Legal Status and Property Rights

Marriage registration impacts spousal rights regarding inheritance, property ownership, and custody rights. Legalizing your union provides a secure foundation for managing marital rights, property, and other assets.

Marriage License Renewal for Foreigners

For non-Kenyans, the marriage certificate provides proof of a lawful union, which is valuable for immigration or residency applications. Ensure that all residency requirements are met before application if either spouse is a foreigner.

Marriage registration in Kenya is an essential step in legally recognizing your union, and online registration has made this process simpler and more accessible. By following the procedures outlined here, couples can efficiently register their marriage as civil, customary, or Christian on eCitizen, ensuring they meet all legal requirements and are protected under Kenyan law. Whether through civil authority, cultural customs, or church rites, registering your marriage solidifies your commitment while securing important legal rights for you and your partner.