Do you want to get married according to Moroccan law while living in the Netherlands? Then there is more to it than you might think. Whether you want to get married in Morocco itself or through the Moroccan consulate in the Netherlands, you have to deal with documents, translations, legalizations and sometimes even medical certificates. In this blog we explain step by step what you need, what you need to consider and how Arabika can help you with this.
Why is a marriage record required for Morocco?
Unlike a marriage in the Netherlands, a marriage under Moroccan law requires a full dossier of official documents. This applies even if you live in the Netherlands and intend to marry in Morocco. Without this file, you cannot obtain a marriage certificate, and your marriage will then not be recognized by the Moroccan authorities.
What documents do you need?
The exact documents may vary from situation to situation, but in most cases you will need the following:
- An international extract from the Basic Registration of Persons (BRP) indicating your marital status.
- Proof of being unmarried (available through the consulate).
- Your Moroccan birth certificate or copy integral thereof.
- A medical certificate from your family doctor (translated and legalized).
- A power of attorney, if you do not travel to Morocco yourself.
Have you been married before? If so, you also have:
- Need a Moroccan divorce certificate or death certificate from the previous partner.
- Possibly documents showing that the previous divorce was recognized in Morocco.
What if my partner is not a Moroccan national?
Additional requirements apply to a mixed marriage (between a Moroccan and a non-Moroccan partner). For example, additional documents are often required, and sometimes the foreign partner must obtain prior permission from the Moroccan authorities. Arabika also guides these processes step by step, so that you do not overlook anything.
Do I have to travel to Morocco to get married?
No, this is not always necessary. If you provide the complete marriage file through Arabika, we can initiate the process on your behalf with the competent authorities in Morocco. So you can also marry from the Netherlands for Moroccan law, provided you have the proper power of attorney and documents.
What if I am already married in the Netherlands?
If you are married in the Netherlands and you want this marriage to also be recognized in Morocco, you need to go through a separate recognition procedure. Arabika will help you with this as well. We compile the file, provide sworn translations and legalizations, and supervise the registration at the Moroccan consulate.
Common mistakes when preparing for a wedding in Morocco.
- Incomplete or outdated documents.
Make sure each document is recent and properly legalized. Municipalities and consulates often have strict requirements for dates and stamps. - Forgotten legalizations and translations.
Official documents often need to be translated and legalized before they are valid in Morocco. - No file review in advance.
One mistake in your file means delay or rejection of your application. Therefore, have this checked in advance by a specialist such as Arabika.
Why choose Arabika?
At Arabika, we understand how complicated it can be to arrange a marriage before Moroccan law from the Netherlands. We therefore take the entire process off your hands:
- We will put together the marriage file with you.
- We arrange sworn translations and legalizations.
- We will guide you step by step - even if you are not traveling to Morocco yourself.
- You can stop by our office without an appointment.
This will prevent stress, delays and misunderstandings, and ensure that your marriage is properly recognized by Moroccan authorities.
Want to know what documents you need in your situation?
Call the office near you or stop by. Making an appointment is not required, we do recommend it to avoid long waits. You can schedule an appointment here. We will be happy to help you arrange your marriage according to Moroccan law properly and carefree.
Arabika Translations & Services
At Arabika, you can get (sworn) translations, document retrieval, guidance during your marriage and divorce proceedings, family law, legalizations, sending and receiving mail, visa services, mediations and writing authorizations and appeals.
