How to Get a Marriage Certificate in Zimbabwe

Getting legally married in Zimbabwe involves a formal process to ensure the union is officially recognized. The most common type is a civil marriage, which is conducted by a magistrate or a registered marriage officer.

Step 1: Notice of Intention to Marry

Before you can get married, you must publicly declare your intention to do so.

1. Visit the Magistrate's Court: Both partners must go to the Magistrate's Court in the district where they intend to marry.
2. Submit Documents: You will need your original National IDs (or valid passports) and copies. If either party was previously married, you will need the divorce decree or the former spouse's death certificate.
3. Complete Forms & Pay Fee: You will fill out a "Notice of Intention to Marry" form and pay the required fee.
4. Publication of Banns: The notice is then posted on a public notice board at the court for a period of at least two weeks. This is to allow for any legal objections to the marriage.

Step 2: The Marriage Ceremony

After the notice period has passed without any objections, you can proceed with the ceremony.

• At the Magistrate's Court: You can book a date and time to have the ceremony conducted by a magistrate at the court.
• With a Marriage Officer: Alternatively, you can take the cleared notice to a registered marriage officer (such as a church pastor who is licensed by the state) to conduct the ceremony at your chosen venue.

On the day of the ceremony, you will need:

• The two of you to be present.
• Two witnesses, who must be over 18 and have their original IDs.
• Your original IDs.

Step 3: Registration and Certificate

1. Signing the Register: During the ceremony, you, your partner, and your two witnesses will sign the official marriage register.
2. Issuance of Certificate: The marriage officer will then complete and issue your official Marriage Certificate. This is the legal proof of your union.