The Ultimate Guide to Civil Marriage in Kenya: 2026 Requirements, Process, and Fees

Planning a wedding in Kenya is a journey of both joy and legal precision. For many couples, a civil marriage—a non-religious union conducted by the Registrar of Marriages—is the preferred choice due to its legal simplicity and universal recognition.

As of January 13, 2026, the Office of the Attorney General has fully transitioned all marriage services to the eCitizen portal, making manual applications a thing of the past. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know to navigate the 2026 legal landscape and secure your marriage certificate efficiently.

1. What is a Civil Marriage in Kenya?

A civil marriage is a monogamous union between a man and a woman that is performed, recorded, and recognized by a government official. Unlike customary or religious marriages, it is strictly governed by Part VI of the Marriage Act, 2014.

Key features include:

• Monogamy: Neither party can enter another marriage while this union subsists.
• Legal Rights: It grants equal rights in property ownership, parental responsibility, and inheritance.
• Universal Recognition: It is recognized both locally and internationally, making it ideal for couples planning to live abroad.

2. Basic Eligibility and Legal Requirements

To contract a civil marriage in 2026, both parties must meet these non-negotiable legal standards:

• Age: You must be 18 years or older.
• Mental Capacity: Both parties must be of sound mind and capable of understanding the marriage contract.
• Consent: The union must be entirely voluntary.
• Prohibited Degrees: You cannot marry someone to whom you are closely related by blood or adoption.

3. Required Documents for the 2026 Digital Application

Since all applications are now online via eCitizen, you must have clear, scanned copies of the following:

For Kenyan Citizens:

• Identification: Valid National ID cards or Passports.
• Birth Certificates: Original copies to verify parentage and age.
• Passport Photos: One recent colored passport-size photo for each applicant.
• Marital Status Proof: * Single: A sworn affidavit confirming you have never been married.
  • Divorced: An original Decree Absolute.
  • Widowed: The original Death Certificate of the deceased spouse.
  • Note: If a Decree Absolute or Death Certificate is more than 2 years old, a fresh affidavit confirming your current status is required.

For Foreign Nationals:

• Valid Passport: Must include a valid visa or entry stamp.
• Certificate of No Impediment: An official document from their home country confirming they are free to marry.
• Travel Records: Copies of air tickets and visas.

Expert Tip: Before you pay any government fees, use ourNdoa Checklist Toolto ensure your documents meet the current Registrar’s standards.

4. Step-by-Step Process via eCitizen

The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) now requires all notices and licenses to be digitally generated.

Step 1: Submit the Notice of Marriage

Log in to the Registrar of Marriages portal on eCitizen. Fill out the Form MA2 (Notice of Intention to Marry) and pay the KES 600 notice fee. This initiates a 21-day public notice period where the intention is displayed for any objections.

Step 2: The Verification Interview

After the 21 days have lapsed (and no later than 3 months), you must book an appointment online to appear before the Registrar. Both parties must attend with their original documents for verification.

Step 3: Payment of Ceremony Fees

Upon a successful interview, you will be prompted to pay the ceremony fees through eCitizen.

Step 4: Solemnization

After payment, you book a date for your ceremony. On the wedding day, you must bring two witnesses (each with a valid ID) to the Registrar’s office. The ceremony is brief, lasting about 10–15 minutes, and concludes with the issuance of your digital marriage certificate.

5. Cost of Civil Marriage in Kenya (2026 Fees)

Fees are subject to platform charges on eCitizen but generally follow this structure:

A Special License is required if one party is a foreigner or if the wedding is being fast-tracked without the 21-day notice.

6. Registrar of Marriages Locations

To save on travel, the government has expanded OAG offices to 27 counties as of 2026. Major regional hubs include:

• Nairobi: Sheria House, Harambee Avenue.
• Coast: Mombasa and Malindi.
• Rift Valley: Nakuru, Eldoret, and Kericho.
• Nyanza/Western: Kisumu, Kakamega, and Kisii.
• Central/Eastern: Nyeri, Machakos, Embu, and Meru.

7. Understanding the “Special License”

Couples often ask when they need a Special License. This license waives the 21-day notice requirement. It is mandatory if:

• You wish to marry before the 21-day notice period expires.
• One or both parties are non-residents or foreign nationals.
• The wedding ceremony is taking place at a licensed venue other than the Registrar’s office (e.g., a garden or hotel).

8. Why Choose Civil Marriage?

Beyond the legalities, a civil marriage offers a streamlined, budget-friendly alternative to large traditional weddings. By choosing the civil route, couples can focus their resources on their future home or a private celebration while ensuring their union is protected under Kenyan law and the Constitution of Kenya.

For more tools to help you prepare for your new life together, explore our Tujulishane Blog, where we cover everything from career growth in Kenya to digital entrepreneurship.