Marriage certificate

Published: 01 January 2012 Modified: 17 January 2012

A copy or extract of a marriage certificate provides written proof that two people are married to each other.

What is it?

A marriage certificate provides evidence that two people are married to each other and that the marriage is included in the registry of births, deaths and marriages.

How does it work?

Only the international extract is available in several languages.

What are the conditions?

You may only apply for proof of marriage at the municipality where the wedding took place.

Do you want to apply for a copy of a foreign marriage certificate? This is only possible if you have had this certificate registered with The Hague municipality’s registry of births, deaths and marriages.

Please note: In all cases, you will need to prove legitimate interest. This means that you may only submit an application:

for yourself
as a proxy
as a blood relative (parent or child)
as a beneficiary
as a registered partner or spouse
as a legal representative (with power of attorney).

You can also submit this application if you need the document for a legal procedure or to register a partnership or marriage.

What will I need?

Digitally: DigiD. Please note: this option is for residents of the Netherlands only.
In person: proof of identity. Are you requesting a copy or international extract on behalf of someone else? You will also need to bring along this person’s proof of identity (original or copy). You will also need the person’s written authorisation.
In writing: a letter signed by you and a copy of your proof of identity. Please state your reason for requesting the document.

PDF file Written authorisation form (PDF, 37 kB)

How much will it cost?

€ 11.80 (excluding postage costs for a request in writing, for which you will receive an invoice).

How long will it take?

Digitally: 3 days
In person: immediately for certificates after 1986 and 5 working days for certificates before 1986
In writing and with permission: 10 working days

How do I apply/What do I need to do?

Digitally: via DigiD.

Digital application

In person: at one of the sub-municipal offices. Please note: If the certificate was issued more than 75 years ago, then you need to apply at the Municipal Archives.