CHANGE YOUR LAST NAME TO YOUR HUSBAND’S NAME
At Publish, we simplify the process of changing your last name to your husband’s name by handling all the essential documents for you, including an affidavit and newspaper extract.
You can get started, complete the process in just 5 minutes, and receive your affidavit within 30 minutes. Your newspaper publication will also be finalized in less than 24 hours.
Nigeria, being a culturally diverse nation, recognizes different types of marriages, each with its legal framework and requirements for obtaining a marriage certificate.
The legal system recognizes four main types of marriages, each with its own cultural, religious, and legal significance.
The type of marriage you conduct determines the process for obtaining a marriage certificate.
Statutory marriage, also known as a “court marriage” or “registry marriage,” is conducted under the provisions of the Marriage Act, CAP M6, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (2004) (as amended).
This type of marriage is secular and is performed by a licensed marriage registrar in a registry or a licensed place of worship. Statutory marriages are widely recognized both within Nigeria and internationally.
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Key Features:
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It is monogamous in nature (one man and one woman).
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You must give notice of your intention to marry at the marriage registry.
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The marriage must be solemnized in the presence of at least two witnesses.
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A marriage certificate is issued immediately after the ceremony.
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Types of Statutory Marriages:
In accordance with the Marriage Act, the Ministry of Interior is charged with carrying out statutory marriages in Nigeria. There are two types of statutory marriages recognized under the law:-
Ordinary Marriage: This is a marriage between two Nigerians.
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Special Marriage: This is a marriage between a Nigerian and a non-Nigerian or between two non-Nigerians in Nigeria.
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Services Related to Statutory Marriages:
The Ministry of Interior provides a range of services related to statutory marriages, which have been automated and can be accessed through the eCITIBIZ portal. These services include:-
Marriage Applications: For your marriage to be legally binding, it must be certified by the Ministry of Interior. You can apply for marriage through the eCITIBIZ portal, and a certified marriage certificate is issued after all procedures and payments are completed.
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Change of Marriage Venue: If you wish to perform your marriage outside the Federal Marriage Registry, you can apply for this service and pay the required fee to have your marriage conducted at your desired location.
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Certified True Copy of Document: This service provides a certified true copy of the original marriage certificate if you have lost your original certificate or need it for third-party agencies (e.g., embassies). A fee is charged for this service.
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Attestation of Marital Status: This service is used to declare and verify your marital status (single, married, widowed, or divorced).
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Verification of Documents: This service is provided to third-party agencies seeking to verify the authenticity of documents you submit (e.g., bachelorhood or spinsterhood certificates).
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Customary marriage is conducted according to the traditions and customs of your ethnic group(s). It is recognized under the Customary Law and is often polygamous, meaning a man can marry more than one wife.
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Key Features:
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It involves traditional rites such as the payment of bride price, exchange of gifts, and family consent.
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You must register your marriage with the local government authority to obtain a marriage certificate.
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The certificate serves as proof of your marriage under customary law.
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Islamic marriage, also known as “Nikah,” is conducted under Islamic Law (Sharia) and is recognized in states where Sharia is practiced. It is often polygamous, allowing a man to marry up to four wives, provided he can treat them equally.
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Key Features:
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It is conducted by an Islamic cleric or Imam in the presence of witnesses.
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You must pay a dowry (Mahr) to the bride.
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You must register your marriage with the appropriate Islamic authority or local government to obtain a marriage certificate.
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Church marriages are religious ceremonies conducted in accordance with the beliefs and practices of your faith as a Christian. While these marriages are socially recognized, you must register them with the government to obtain a marriage certificate.
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Key Features:
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It often involves a religious ceremony in a church setting.
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You must register your marriage with the marriage registry to be legally recognized.
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The marriage certificate is issued after registration.
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As mentioned earlier, the statutory marriage certificate is the most recognized, especially for couples who have plans of traveling or relocating to other countries.
The process of obtaining it for statutory marriages in Nigeria is detailed and involves several steps. You can begin the online application through the eCITIBIZ portal.
Below is a step-by-step guide for both Ordinary Marriages (between two Nigerians) and Special Marriages (between a Nigerian and a non-Nigerian or two non-Nigerians).
Step 1 – Online Application:
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Husband’s Requirements:
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Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age.
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Passport Photograph.
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Indigene Letter.
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Sworn Affidavit of Bachelorhood from a Federal High Court/Bachelorhood Certificate (if bachelor).
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Affidavit of Marriage (if already married).
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Evidence of Divorce – Decree 90 and Decree Absolute (if divorced).
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Death Certificate of Previous Wife (if a widower).
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Evidence of Annulment from a Federal High Court (if previous marriage was annulled).
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Sworn Affidavit of Single with Child/Children (if single with child/children).
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Wife’s Requirements:
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Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age.
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Passport Photograph.
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Indigene Letter.
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Sworn Affidavit of Spinsterhood from a Federal High Court/Spinsterhood Certificate (if spinster).
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Affidavit of Marriage (if already married).
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Evidence of Divorce – Decree 90 and Decree Absolute (if divorced).
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Death Certificate of Previous Husband (if a widow).
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Evidence of Annulment from a Federal High Court (if previous marriage was annulled).
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Sworn Affidavit of Single with Child/Children (if single with child/children).
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Step 2 – Oath Taking:
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You must return to the registry on the selected date of the oath.
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You are required to provide one witness each from both parties (not gender-specific).
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You are expected to present two rings (male and female) or a Bible/Quran.
Dress Code:
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Wedding dresses and suits.
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Native attire.
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Corporate ensemble.
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Short sleeves, shorts, and jeans are not allowed.
Step 1 – Online Application:
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Husband’s Requirements:
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Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age.
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Passport Photograph.
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Indigene Letter/Letter of Identification from State of Origin (for Nigerians).
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Sworn Affidavit of Bachelorhood from a Federal High Court/Bachelorhood Certificate (if bachelor).
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Affidavit of Marriage (if already married).
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Evidence of Divorce – Decree 90 and Decree Absolute (if divorced).
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Death Certificate of Previous Wife (if a widower).
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Evidence of Annulment from a Federal High Court (if previous marriage was annulled).
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Sworn Affidavit of Single with Child/Children (if single with child/children).
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Data Page of International Passport (if living abroad).
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Arrival Passport Stamp Page (if living abroad).
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Residence Permit (if living abroad).
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Wife’s Requirements:
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Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age.
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Passport Photograph.
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Indigene Letter/Letter of Identification from State of Origin (for Nigerians).
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Sworn Affidavit of Spinsterhood from a Federal High Court/Spinsterhood Certificate (if spinster).
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Affidavit of Marriage (if already married).
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Evidence of Divorce – Decree 90 and Decree Absolute (if divorced).
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Death Certificate of Previous Husband (if a widow).
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Evidence of Annulment from a Federal High Court (if previous marriage was annulled).
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Sworn Affidavit of Single with Child/Children (if single with child/children).
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Data Page of International Passport (if living abroad).
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Arrival Passport Stamp Page (if living abroad).
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Residence Permit (if living abroad).
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Step 2 – Oath Taking:
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You must return to the registry on the selected date of the interview.
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You are required to provide one witness each from both parties (not gender-specific).
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You are expected to present two rings (male and female) or a Bible/Quran.
Dress Code:
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Wedding dresses and suits.
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Native attire.
-
Corporate ensemble.
-
Short sleeves, shorts, and jeans are not allowed.
A marriage certificate is more than just a piece of paper, it is a vital document that provides legal, social, and economic benefits to you as a couple.
Below are some of the key reasons why a marriage certificate is important:
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Legal Recognition
It serves as legal proof of your marital union. It is required for various legal processes, including spousal rights, inheritance claims, and divorce proceedings. Without a marriage certificate, it may be difficult to prove the existence of your marriage in a court of law. -
International Recognition
If you plan to travel or relocate abroad, a marriage certificate is essential for visa applications, immigration processes, and other international engagements. Many countries require it as proof of your relationship. -
Social Benefits
It facilitates access to joint bank accounts, insurance policies, and other spousal benefits. It also helps you secure loans, mortgages, and other financial services that require proof of marital status. -
Child Legitimacy
A certificate of marriage helps establish the legitimacy of children born within your marriage. This is important for inheritance, custody, and other legal matters involving your children. -
Protection of Rights
It protects the rights of both spouses, especially in cases of separation or death. It ensures that the surviving spouse is entitled to inheritance and other benefits. -
Cultural and Religious Significance
For many couples, this is a symbol of your commitment to each other and your families. It also serves as a testament to your cultural and religious values.
Below are some practical tips to help you navigate the process of obtaining a marriage certificate in Nigeria:
1. Understand the Type of Marriage You Are Conducting
Before starting the process, you need to know the type of marriage you are conducting, as this determines the steps and requirements. The main types of marriages in Nigeria are:
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Statutory Marriage (court or registry marriage).
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Customary Marriage (traditional marriage).
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Islamic Marriage (Nikah).
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Church/Traditional Marriage (religious ceremony).
Each type has its own registration process, so ensure you understand the specific requirements for your marriage type.
2. Gather All Required Documents in Advance
To avoid delays, gather all the necessary documents before starting the process. The required documents vary depending on the type of marriage, but generally include:
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Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age.
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Passport Photographs (usually two copies for each spouse).
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Valid Identification (e.g., National ID, International Passport, or Driver’s License).
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Indigene Letter/Letter of Identification from your state of origin (for Nigerians).
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Sworn Affidavit of Bachelorhood/Spinsterhood (if single).
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Affidavit of Marriage (if previously married).
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Evidence of Divorce (Decree Absolute) or Death Certificate of Previous Spouse (if applicable).
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Proof of Payment for the marriage registration fees.
Having these documents ready will save you time and prevent unnecessary delays.
3. Use the eCITIBIZ Portal for Statutory Marriages
For statutory marriages, the Ministry of Interior has automated the process through the eCITIBIZ portal. This platform allows you to:
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Apply for marriage online.
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Upload required documents.
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Schedule an appointment for oath-taking and marriage solemnization.
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Pay fees electronically.
Using the eCITIBIZ portal simplifies the process and reduces the need for multiple visits to the registry.
4. Choose the Right Marriage Registry
If you are conducting a statutory marriage, ensure you choose the right marriage registry. The Federal Marriage Registry is the most common, but there are also state registries. If you plan to marry outside the registry (e.g., in a church or event center), you must apply for a Change of Venue and pay the required fee.
5. Be Prepared for the Oath-Taking Ceremony
For statutory marriages, you will be required to take an oath at the registry. Here’s what you need to know:
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Witnesses: Bring at least one witness each (not gender-specific).
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Rings or Religious Item: You may be asked to present two rings (male and female) or a Bible/Quran.
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Dress Code: Dress formally (wedding attire, native wear, or corporate ensemble). Avoid casual wear like shorts, jeans, or sleeveless tops.
6. Register Customary and Islamic Marriages
If you are conducting a customary or Islamic marriage, you must register it with the appropriate authority to obtain a marriage certificate. This involves:
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Visiting the local government office or Islamic authority.
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Providing proof of the marriage (e.g., photographs, witnesses, and payment receipts for bride price or dowry).
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Paying the required registration fees.
7. Verify Your Marital Status if Required
If you are single and need to prove your marital status (e.g., for a foreign marriage or visa application), you can obtain a Sworn Affidavit of Bachelorhood/Spinsterhood from a Federal High Court. This document is often required for statutory marriages.
8. Apply for a Certified True Copy if You Lose Your Certificate
If you lose your original marriage certificate, you can apply for a Certified True Copy from the marriage registry. You will need:
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A sworn affidavit from a Federal High Court.
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A police report (if the certificate was stolen).
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Proof of payment for the replacement fee.
9. Be Patient and Persistent
The process of obtaining a marriage certificate in Nigeria can be slow due to delays from manual processes. Be patient and follow up regularly with the registry or relevant authority to ensure your application is processed on time.
10. Seek Professional Assistance if Needed
If you find the process overwhelming, consider hiring a lawyer or marriage consultant to guide you. They can help you navigate the legal requirements, prepare documents, and ensure everything is done correctly.
11. Double-Check Your Documents
Before submitting your documents, double-check to ensure they are complete and accurate. Any errors or missing documents can delay the process.
12. Plan for the Costs
Obtaining a marriage certificate involves various fees, including:
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Marriage application fees.
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Oath-taking fees.
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Venue change fees (if applicable).
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Certified true copy fees (if replacing a lost certificate).
Ensure you budget for these costs to avoid financial surprises.
13. Attend the Registry Early
On the day of your oath-taking or marriage solemnization, arrive early at the registry. This will give you enough time to complete any last-minute formalities and avoid missing your appointment slot.
14. Keep Multiple Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
Once you receive your marriage certificate, make several copies and store them in safe places. You may need the certificate for various purposes, such as visa applications, bank accounts, or legal matters.
15. Educate Yourself on the Process
Take time to research and understand the marriage registration process in Nigeria. This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure a smooth experience.
16. Be Aware of Scams
Unfortunately, some individuals may try to exploit couples by offering fake marriage certificates or charging exorbitant fees. Always deal directly with the marriage registry or authorized agents to avoid scams.
17. Register Your Marriage Immediately
Do not delay registering your marriage, especially for customary or Islamic marriages. The longer you wait, the more complicated the process may become, especially if you need the certificate for urgent purposes.
18. Know Your Rights
A marriage certificate grants you legal rights as a married couple, including inheritance, spousal benefits, and child custody. Ensure you understand these rights and how the certificate protects them.
19. Stay Organized
Keep all your documents, receipts, and correspondence related to the marriage registration process in one place. This will help you stay organized and make it easier to track your progress.
20. Celebrate Your Union
Once you have your marriage certificate, take time to celebrate your union. The certificate is not just a legal document but also a symbol of your love and commitment to each other.
While the process of obtaining a marriage certificate can be challenging, it is a necessary step if you want your union to be recognized under the law.
By understanding the different types of marriages, the process of obtaining a certificate, and its importance, you can take the necessary steps to secure your future together.
