Bali is a dream wedding destination, but having a legal marriage in Bali takes some documentation and following local laws in Indonesia. Most couples believe marrying legally in Bali is as simple as an on-the-beach wedding. But there are certain legal processes to be followed.
In order to help you navigate through this process smoothly, we have devised a step-by-step guide to the legal necessities, documents needed, and other factors for different religious beliefs.
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
At least 1.5 months before your wedding date, you and your fiancé must prepare and email the following documents in PDF or JPEG format:
Read also: Wedding Planner Bali: How to Choose the Perfect One for Your Dream Wedding
Documents Required for All Religious Weddings in Bali
- Copy of passport (for foreigners) or Indonesian ID (for local citizens)
- Birth certificate copies
- Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) – This official document confirms that you are legally free to marry. You can obtain it from your embassy or consulate in Indonesia or local authorities in your home country. Processing times vary, so apply well in advance.
- Proof of single status or divorce certificate (if applicable)
- Death certificate (if widowed)
- Eight 4×6 cm photos of both partners standing side by side
- Letter from your religious representative confirming the religious ceremony
- Baptism certificate (for Christian weddings) – If you don’t have this, some churches in Bali allow last-minute baptisms before the ceremony
- Copy of your witnesses’ passports, along with their full names, addresses, and professions (two witnesses required)
- Statement of residence from your accommodation (hotel, villa, etc.)
- Completed registration form from the Indonesian Civil Registry Office (download the form here)
If you don’t have witnesses or need assistance obtaining any of these documents, Bali Testimoni Wedding can arrange them for you.
Step 2: Submit Original Documents Before the Wedding
Upon your arrival in Bali, you’ll need to present the original versions of certain documents, including:
- Proof of single status or divorce certificate
- Official confirmation from your religious leader
- Original Certificate of No Impediment (CNI)
This step ensures that all paperwork is valid and meets Indonesian marriage regulations.
Step 3: The Legal Marriage in Bali Ceremony
For your legal marriage in Bali, the ceremony must be led by a religious leader (priest, priest, imam, or monk) and an official from the Indonesian Civil Registry Office. So after the wedding ceremony, you will get two very important documents. You’ll get one special certificate from the house of your wedding ceremony that follows your faith or religion. Then you also get a regular government certificate in Indonesia.
Additional Requirements Based on Religion
Each religion in Bali has specific marriage requirements. For Catholic weddings, couples will require a joint status letter from their home church, a pre-marriage course certificate, and a delegation letter to the relevant Catholic church in Bali.
Meanwhile, in Muslim weddings, there is a wali nikah (bride’s guardian) required. Indonesian citizens must also provide Marriage Certificates from KUA (Forms N1, N2, and N3) to confirm their eligibility.
For Buddhist weddings, couples must complete a Buddhist marriage blessing application form from the temple administration office. And for Hindu weddings, both partners must sign a declaration stating their willingness to embrace Hinduism for the marriage.
Step 4 (Optional): Registering Your Marriage in Your Home Country
For most nationalities, your legal marriage in Bali certificate is valid internationally. But others (such as Russia) also require additional registration with their civil office.
If your country of origin has no consulate or embassy in Bali, you may be required to register the marriage in your country of origin. Many couples choose to bring their marriage certificates and complete the process upon returning.
Why Hire a Wedding Planner for a Legal Marriage in Bali?
Organizing all these legal requirements may be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with Indonesian legislation. An established Bali wedding organization like Bali Testimoni Wedding ensures that your union is legally binding without exerting too much pressure on you.
Our team will:
- Guide you through document submission
- Arrange official translations if needed
- Coordinate with the Civil Registry Office and religious authorities
- Provide witness services if required
Make Your Bali Wedding Legally Recognized with Bali Testimoni Wedding
Wedding planning is exhilarating, but legal paperwork can be complicated. Let Bali Testimoni Wedding handle all your legal marriage in Bali needs so you can focus on the festivities of your union. Contact us today to ensure your dream wedding in Bali is not only beautiful but also legal!
Read also: Wedding Organizer Bali: Must-Try Color Palettes for 2025
