1. Preliminary Steps (1-2 Weeks)

Before the actual marriage registration, both parties need to prepare the necessary documents and meet certain requirements. This stage usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks, depending on how quickly the required documents are gathered.

Documents typically required include:

• For the Vietnamese citizen:
  • Valid Vietnamese passport or ID card.
  • Birth certificate.
  • Proof of single status (if applicable).
  • Health certificate (in some cases, particularly if requested by the authorities).
  • Divorce or death certificate (if previously married).
• For the foreigner:
  • Valid passport.
  • Proof of single status (a certificate of no impediment to marriage from embassy of the foreigner or consulate, or similar document issued by their home country).
  • Birth certificate.
  • Divorce or death certificate (if applicable).
  • Health certificate (may be required).

Note: The documents of foreigners need to be translated into Vietnamese and notarized by a certified translation service or the embassy.

Vietnamese-Foreign Marriage Registration 

2. Submission of Documents to Local Civil Registry (1-2 Weeks)

Once all documents are gathered, the couple submits them to the local Civil Registry office (Phòng Tư Pháp) in the Vietnamese district or city where the Vietnamese partner resides. The authorities will review the documents and may request additional information if necessary.

This process typically takes 1 to 2 weeks. If all documents are in order, the registry office will confirm the scheduled date for the marriage registration.

3. Marriage Registration Appointment (1 Day)

On the scheduled day, the couple must appear in person at the Civil Registry office to officially register their marriage. Both the Vietnamese and foreign partner must be present, and the registration is conducted in Vietnamese. In some cases, an interpreter may be required if the foreigner does not speak Vietnamese.

The couple will sign the marriage certificate in front of the officials, and the marriage will be officially recognized. The Civil Registry office will issue the marriage certificate in Vietnamese.

Duration: The registration itself is a quick process, usually taking only a few hours on the appointment day.

Vietnamese-Foreign Marriage Registration 

4. Marriage Certificate Issuance (1-2 Weeks)

After the marriage is registered, the couple will receive a marriage certificate. This document is issued by the Civil Registry office and serves as legal proof of the marriage. The process to receive the official certificate typically takes 1 to 2 weeks.

Note: If the foreigner requires an official English version or additional copies, these can be requested for an extra fee and will take a few more days to process.

5. Post-Marriage Documentation and Procedures (Optional, 1-2 Weeks)

If the foreign partner plans to apply for a visa, residence permit, or other immigration-related processes, additional steps may be necessary, such as registering the marriage with the embassy of foreign partner or consulate or obtaining the required documents for visa or residency applications. The couple may need to visit the relevant authorities or provide documents to the embassy for authentication or translation.

Timeline Summary:

• Preliminary steps (document gathering): 1-2 weeks
• Document submission and processing by local registry: 1-2 weeks
• Marriage registration appointment: 1 day
• Marriage certificate issuance: 1-2 weeks
• Post-marriage documentation (if required): 1-2 weeks

Total Timeline: Approximately 4 to 8 weeks

The process of registering a Vietnamese-foreign marriage in Vietnam can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on how quickly the couple can gather the necessary documents and complete the administrative requirements. By carefully following the legal steps and ensuring all documentation is in order, the couple can ensure a smooth and efficient marriage registration process in Vietnam.

APOLO LAWYERS