Getting Married in Bali: Legal Requirements & Planning Guide
Foreigners can marry legally in Bali only through a religious ceremony that Indonesia recognises, and both partners must hold the same religion. For non-Muslim weddings you lodge a notice of intention with the Civil Registry (Catatan Sipil) at least 10 days before, and register the marriage there after the ceremony for it to be legal. Because of these rules, many international couples marry legally at home and hold a symbolic ceremony in Bali.
Step by step: a legal (non-Muslim) wedding in Bali
- Check you qualify. Both partners must hold the same religion recognised in Indonesia; the ceremony must follow that religion.
- Get a certificate of no impediment. Obtain it from your own embassy or consulate — for Bali, foreign missions in Denpasar usually handle this; check which one the registry accepts.
- Lodge notice. Lodge a notice of intention to marry with the Civil Registry at least 10 days before the wedding.
- Hold the religious ceremony. The ceremony is performed by a minister of your religion.
- Register the marriage. Register it at the Civil Registry after the ceremony — without this step it is not legal.
Documents usually required
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Certificate of no impediment | From your embassy or consulate |
| Passports | Originals and photocopies |
| Birth certificates | Originals and photocopies |
| Proof previous marriages ended | Divorce or death certificate, if applicable |
| Photos | Four photos of the couple, 4 × 6 cm |
Requirements vary by province — check with the Civil Registry in Bali. The Australian Embassy suggests using a wedding organiser if you don't speak Indonesian.
Symbolic ceremonies in Bali
If you don't share a recognised religion, or don't want a religious ceremony, a symbolic wedding is the usual route: marry legally at home, then celebrate in Bali with a celebrant of your choice — clifftop, rice terrace or beach.
Tell guests clearly if the ceremony is symbolic, and include the legal-ceremony date on your website if family at home will attend that too.
What to tell your guests
- Fly into Denpasar (DPS); transfers to Uluwatu, Seminyak or Ubud can take an hour or more in traffic.
- Rainy season is roughly November to March — share your wet-weather plan.
- Ask guests to check Indonesian entry and visa rules for their passport well ahead.
- Temple visits require covered shoulders and knees — mention it if you plan excursions.
Official source
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners legally get married in Bali?
Yes, but only through a religious ceremony of a religion recognised in Indonesia, with both partners holding the same religion, followed by registration at the Civil Registry for non-Muslim marriages.
How far in advance do you need to give notice in Bali?
For non-Muslim marriages, at least 10 days before the wedding, to the Civil Registry.
Is a symbolic wedding in Bali legal?
No — a symbolic ceremony is a celebration only. Most couples sign the legal paperwork at home.