How to Register Your Marriage Online in Kenya: Complete Guide | Requirements and Procedure

Marriage is a significant milestone in life, and in Kenya, online marriage registration has made the process simpler, more accessible, and less time-consuming. In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process of registering a marriage online in Kenya, from understanding the legal requirements to completing the registration. Whether you are opting for a civil, religious, or customary marriage, we have provided a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to ensure your registration is smooth and hassle-free.

Types of Marriages in Kenya

In Kenya, the law recognizes different types of marriages under the Marriage Act of 2014. Each type of marriage requires specific documentation and procedures for registration. Here are the recognized types of marriages in Kenya:

1. Civil Marriages – Performed by the Registrar of Marriages.
2. Christian Marriages – Conducted in churches by registered ministers of religion.
3. Hindu Marriages – Solemnized according to Hindu religious rites.
4. Islamic Marriages – Governed by Islamic law and performed by authorized Muslim leaders.
5. Customary Marriages – Based on traditional customs and recognized under the law.

Requirements for Online Marriage Registration in Kenya

To successfully register your marriage online, certain legal requirements must be met. These requirements vary slightly depending on the type of marriage, but the general prerequisites are as follows:

1. Personal Identification Documents

Both parties must provide valid identification documents, which include:

• National ID Cards or Passports for both partners.
• Birth Certificates as proof of nationality and age.
• Colored passport-sized photos of both parties (recent).

2. Proof of Single Status

You must provide evidence that neither party is married to someone else. This can be done through:

• Affidavits of Single Status – Sworn statements that confirm neither partner is married.
• Divorce Decree Absolute – If either party was previously married and divorced.
• Death Certificate – If one partner was previously married and the spouse passed away.

3. Parental Consent (if required)

If either party is under 21 years of age, parental consent is mandatory. This should be provided in writing, with copies of the parents' ID cards attached.

4. Marriage Notification

A notice of intention to marry must be submitted 21 days before the marriage ceremony takes place. This is a legal requirement under Kenyan law.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Online Marriage Registration in Kenya

Step 1: Visit the eCitizen Portal

To begin the marriage registration process, both parties must have accounts on the eCitizen platform. The platform is the official online portal where government services, including marriage registration, are conducted.

1. Log in or create an account on the eCitizen website.
2. Navigate to the Department of Civil Registration and select the Marriage Services option.

Step 2: Fill in the Online Marriage Application Form

Once you have accessed the marriage services, you will be required to fill in the application form. This form will ask for detailed information about both parties, including:

• Full names
• ID numbers
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Contact information

Ensure that the information entered is accurate, as any mistakes may delay the registration process.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

You will be prompted to upload scanned copies of the required documents, including:

• Identification documents (ID cards or passports).
• Proof of single status (affidavits or divorce decrees).
• Parental consent letters (if applicable).
• Passport-sized photos.

Step 4: Pay the Required Fees

The marriage registration process requires payment of specific fees. These fees vary depending on the type of marriage. Payments can be made directly through the eCitizen portal using mobile money services such as M-Pesa, credit or debit cards.

Step 5: Booking the Marriage Notification

After submitting the application and paying the fees, the system will generate a Marriage Notice. The notice must be published on the eCitizen portal for 21 days. During this period, any objections to the marriage can be raised.

If no objections are raised, you will proceed to the next stage.

Step 6: Scheduling the Marriage Ceremony

Once the 21-day notification period has passed, you can schedule the marriage ceremony. The marriage can be conducted at the Registrar's office, a religious institution, or another approved venue.

For civil marriages, the ceremony takes place at the Registrar of Marriages' office. For religious marriages, the ceremony is held at the place of worship by a licensed minister or priest.

Step 7: Issuance of Marriage Certificate

After the ceremony, the couple will receive a Marriage Certificate as proof of their union. The certificate can either be collected physically from the Registrar's office or delivered digitally through the eCitizen portal.