So, you’re getting married in Belgium? First off—huge congratulations! 🎉 Whether you dream of a simple and intimate wedding at city hall or a grand, candle-lit ceremony in a historic church, Belgium offers both options. But before you say “I do,” there’s one crucial decision to make: civil marriage or religious marriage? Or both?
This guide will help you understand the legalities, traditions, and practicalities of each, sprinkled with real-life insights, humor, and useful tips.
The Legal Must-Have: Civil Marriage in Belgium
If you’re planning to get married in Belgium, a civil ceremony is mandatory—it’s the only way to have a legally recognized marriage. Even if you plan a religious wedding, you must first complete a civil ceremony at the local town hall.
How Does Civil Marriage Work?
To legally wed, you must first submit a declaration of marriage at your local commune at least 14 days before the wedding (but no more than six months in advance).
Documents required:
✅ Passport or ID card
✅ Proof of residence
✅ Birth certificates
✅ Proof of marital status (if divorced or widowed)
Once approved, you’ll be given a date for your civil wedding ceremony, which takes place at the town hall (maison communale/gemeentehuis).
👉 Curious where you might be saying “I do”? Check out Brussels’ City Hall here: https://www.brussels.be/marriage
The Ceremony
A Belgian civil wedding is short and sweet—typically 15-30 minutes long, officiated by the mayor or an official representative. The ceremony consists of reading the legal marriage articles, exchanging vows, and signing the register.
💡 Pro tip: Some communes allow minor personal touches—like bringing a small group of guests, exchanging personal vows, or even playing music.
Is It Romantic?
Let’s be honest—a town hall is not exactly a fairytale castle. But don’t let that stop you from making it special! Many couples opt for:
📸 A photoshoot at a nearby scenic location (think Grand Place in Brussels or Gravensteen Castle in Ghent)
🥂 A post-ceremony celebration at a charming café or vineyard
The Traditional & Spiritual Choice: Religious Marriage
For many couples, marriage isn’t just a legal contract—it’s a sacred commitment. Belgium is home to stunning historic churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples, offering breathtaking backdrops for a faith-based wedding.
BUT… There’s a Rule!
Belgian law prohibits religious ceremonies before a civil marriage. So, if you’re dreaming of a grand church wedding, you’ll first need to go through the legal town hall ceremony.
Types of Religious Ceremonies in Belgium
Belgium recognizes multiple faiths, including:
- Catholic weddings – Often held in breathtaking historic churches, like St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral in Brussels. Catholic marriages require pre-marital counseling.
- Protestant weddings – Typically more flexible in terms of location and format.
- Jewish weddings – Usually held in synagogues or private venues, following Jewish traditions.
- Muslim weddings – The Nikah ceremony can take place after the civil marriage is completed.
- Hindu, Buddhist, and other faiths – Each follows unique customs, but all require proof of civil marriage first.
Where to Have a Religious Wedding?
Belgium offers plenty of breathtaking religious venues, from Gothic churches to serene chapels.
👉 Looking for a dreamy venue? Check out Château de la Hulpe: https://www.chateaudelahulpe.be/
Civil vs. Religious Marriage: Pros & Cons
| Feature |
Civil Marriage ✅ |
Religious Marriage ⛪ |
| Legally recognized? |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
| Where does it happen? |
Town hall |
Church, mosque, synagogue, etc. |
| Who officiates? |
Mayor or city official |
Religious leader |
| Length of ceremony |
15-30 minutes |
Varies (can be over an hour) |
| Personalization |
Limited |
Highly customizable |
| Symbolic or legal? |
Legal |
Symbolic |
| Paperwork needed? |
Birth certificates, ID, etc. |
Proof of civil marriage required |
💡 Not religious, but want something special? Consider a symbolic wedding—a custom ceremony at a vineyard, château, or even a beach in Ostend!
Best Locations for Weddings in Belgium
📍 For Civil Weddings:
- Brussels City Hall – Stunning gothic architecture
- Ghent Town Hall – A mix of Renaissance and Gothic styles
- Antwerp’s Stadhuis – Located in the lively Grote Markt
📍 For Religious Weddings:
- Cathedral of St. Michael & St. Gudula (Brussels) – Majestic and grand
- Basilica of the Holy Blood (Bruges) – Medieval charm in a fairytale town
- Abbaye de Villers – A breathtaking ruined abbey for spiritual ceremonies
📍 For Symbolic Weddings:
- Château de la Hulpe – A fairytale castle near Brussels
- C-Mine (Genk) – Industrial chic meets modern romance
- Knokke-Heist Beach – A seaside ceremony at sunset
How to Make a Civil Ceremony More Special?
Since a civil wedding is quick and formal, you can add small but meaningful touches to make it more personal:
💐 Bring flowers to decorate the hall
🎶 Walk in with music (if allowed)
📜 Write personal vows to exchange privately after the ceremony
📸 Plan a post-ceremony photoshoot at a scenic location
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
1. Can I have a religious wedding before a civil wedding?
❌ No. You must first complete a civil marriage.
2. How much does a civil wedding cost in Belgium?
💰 It depends on the commune, but the basic ceremony is often free. Extra services (weekend weddings, private rooms, etc.) may have fees.
3. Can foreigners get married in Belgium?
🌍 Yes, but at least one partner must be a Belgian resident, or you’ll need special permission.
4. Where can I take wedding photos in Belgium?
📷 Grand Place in Brussels, Bruges’ canals, Ghent’s castle, or even the rolling vineyards of Wallonia!
Final Thoughts: Which One is Right for You?
There’s no right or wrong choice—just what feels right for you as a couple!
👉 Want a simple, legal wedding? A civil ceremony is all you need.
👉 Want faith and tradition? Go for a religious wedding after your civil ceremony.
👉 Want a magical, fairytale experience? Plan a symbolic wedding in a château or by the sea!
And of course, whatever you choose, I’d love to capture your day! 🎥📸 From emotional first looks to the wildest dance-floor moments, let’s create wedding photos that last a lifetime.
💍 Ready to plan your dream wedding photos? Explore my work:
📸 Blog & Portfolio
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📩 Let’s Connect
Let’s make your Belgian wedding unforgettable! 🚀✨
