Question
I am an Indonesian citizen married to an Australian citizen. We got married abroad. How can I register our foreign marriage in Indonesia?
Answer
Registering a foreign marriage is important because Indonesia only recognizes a marriage once it is properly recorded. Below is a clear explanation of the legal basis, required documents, and the steps you must follow.
Legal Basis for Registering a Foreign Marriage in Indonesia
Two main regulations govern the registration of foreign marriages:
1. Registration with the Local Authority and the Indonesian Embassy Abroad
Article 37(1) of Law No. 23 of 2006, amended by Law No. 24 of 2013 on Population Administration, states:
“A marriage between Indonesian citizens outside the territory of the Republic of Indonesia must be registered with the local authority and reported to the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate.”
This means you must register your marriage with:
- The local civil registry in the country where the marriage took place
- The Indonesian Embassy (KBRI) or Consulate in that country
Both registrations ensure that Indonesia acknowledges the marriage as valid.
2. Reporting the Marriage to the Civil Registry (Disdukcapil) in Indonesia
Article 56(2) of Law No. 1 of 1974 on Marriage states:
“Within one year of the couple’s return to Indonesia, proof of marriage must be registered with the local Civil Registry Office (Disdukcapil).”
This regulation gives you a one-year deadline to report your marriage after returning to Indonesia.
Required Documents for Registering a Foreign Marriage at Disdukcapil
Prepare the following documents to complete your registration at Disdukcapil:
- KTP (Indonesian National ID) of the Indonesian spouse
- Passport of the foreign spouse
- Family Card (KK)
- Foreign marriage certificate or marriage registration document
- Must be translated by a sworn translator
- Proof of marriage reporting at the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI)
- Prenuptial agreement notarized in Indonesia (mandatory for WNI–WNA marriages)
- Names and photocopies of ID cards of two witnesses
- Completed Disdukcapil registration form
Each document supports your legal submission and helps Disdukcapil verify your marriage validity.
Prenuptial Agreement Requirement for Mixed Marriages
Mixed-nationality marriages usually require a prenuptial agreement.
This agreement establishes separation of assets between the spouses. It is especially important for matters such as property ownership in Indonesia, because Indonesian land laws restrict foreign ownership.
If you do not have a prenuptial agreement, consult a legal professional to explore alternatives that comply with Indonesian law.
Legal Assistance for Registering Foreign Marriages
Registering a foreign marriage involves several steps and detailed requirements. Legal Keluarga can assist you with:
- Document review and preparation
- Sworn translation
- Reporting at KBRI
- Filing at the Civil Registry (Disdukcapil)
With proper assistance, you can complete the process more efficiently and avoid administrative issues.
Contact Legal Keluarga
📞 WhatsApp: 0813-8968-6009
📧 Email: klien@legalkeluarga.id
🌐 Website: legalkeluarga.id
Legal Keluarga is ready to help you ensure that your foreign marriage is fully recognized under Indonesian law.
