You’re planning a wedding in Indonesia. The sky is a watercolor wash over the Indian Ocean, you’re barefoot in Uluwatu or wrapped in a silk dress among the rice terraces of Ubud, and the only thing more romantic than your vows is the gentle crash of waves behind you.
Then someone asks: “Did you get your Certificate of No Impediment?”
Wait—my what now?
Yeah. As dreamy as your Bali wedding sounds, there’s a bit of real-world magic required to make it official. That’s right, we’re talking paperwork. But don’t worry—we’ll make it easy (and even fun). This is your guide to getting legally married in Indonesia as a foreigner.
🏝 Why Get Married in Indonesia?
Because paradise is better with palm trees. Bali, in particular, is the star of the show—iconic temples, clifftop chapels, secluded jungle venues, and sun-kissed beaches. Whether it’s a luxe villa in Seminyak or an ethereal clifftop ceremony at The Edge Bali, this island’s got heart-melting backdrops for every kind of love story.
But Bali isn’t the only gem. Explore ceremonies in Uluwatu, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, or Ubud—each with its own unique flavor of magic.
📑 Quick Legal Snapshot: What You Need to Get Married in Indonesia
Indonesia does allow foreigners to marry, but it’s got some unique rules:
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Your marriage must be religious. No civil-only ceremonies.
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You must marry under one of six recognized religions: Islam, Catholicism, Protestantism, Hinduism, Buddhism, or Confucianism.
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You’ll need both religious and civil ceremonies for the marriage to be legally recognized.
So if you’re planning to elope on the beach, make sure there’s an ordained officiant (and maybe not just your surfer cousin Dave).
✅ Required Documents for a Legal Wedding in Indonesia
Here’s your no-fuss checklist of what you’ll need as a foreigner:
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Valid Passport (minimum 6 months before expiry)
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Copy of Birth Certificate
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Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) – Issued by your country’s embassy in Indonesia. Proves you’re free to marry.
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Affidavit of Marital Status (varies by country)
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Decree Absolute or Death Certificate – if divorced or widowed
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Four passport-sized photos (4×6 cm, side by side with your partner)
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Religious Documentation:
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Translations & Notarization – if your docs aren’t in Bahasa Indonesia
🎯 Pro Tip: Visit your embassy’s website before flying out. Each one has its own fine print.
✍️ Step-by-Step: How to Get Married in Indonesia (Legally)
1. Visit Your Embassy in Indonesia
Most embassies (e.g., U.S., UK, Australia, Canada) require in-person appointments in Jakarta or Denpasar. This is where you’ll get the CNI. Book early—those appointments fill fast!
2. Religious Ceremony
Book an officiant from your religion. This part is mandatory in Indonesia.
For example:
3. Civil Registration
After your religious wedding, your marriage must be registered at the Civil Registry Office (Kantor Catatan Sipil) within 60 days.
4. Celebrate!
Your marriage is official and you can dance the night away under fairy lights and frangipani trees.
💡 Real Talk: What About a Symbolic Wedding?
Let’s face it—legal ceremonies abroad can be a little complicated. Many couples opt to legally marry at home and then have a symbolic ceremony in Bali. You’ll still get the epic photos, romantic vows, and dreamy moments—without embassy appointments or form fatigue.
Symbolic ceremonies are 100% customizable. And you can bring your own officiant or work with one locally. Most luxury resorts (like Four Seasons Bali) offer all-inclusive wedding packages for this.
📅 Timeline: When to Start Planning
| What to Do |
When to Do It |
| Book venue & photographer |
9–12 months in advance |
| Begin legal research |
6 months before the wedding |
| Embassy appointment |
1–2 months before |
| Translate documents |
At least 3 weeks before the wedding |
| Confirm officiant & ceremony |
1 month before |
❓FAQ: Your Burning Questions
Can foreigners get legally married in Indonesia?
Yes—but only through religious ceremonies + civil registration.
Can we marry without a religion?
Nope. You must declare a religion and be married under its rites.
What if we’re from different countries?
Totally fine! Just follow both countries’ documentation rules.
Do we need a wedding planner?
Strong yes. Planners can handle translations, officiants, embassy runs, and paperwork chaos.
🎁 Bonus: Your Free Legal Wedding Checklist
Want a printable checklist? Reach out via my contact page (below) and I’ll send you a gorgeous downloadable version—perfect for travel folders or Pinterest boards!
📸 Capture Every Happy Moment — With an Expert by Your Side
Planning a wedding far from home is a leap of love—and it deserves to be captured with heart. As a destination wedding photographer with a passport full of love stories and a camera full of art, I’m here to make your Indonesian “I do” unforgettable.
From cliffside ceremonies to coconut-toast receptions, I blend emotion, elegance, and editorial charm into every frame.
🌴 Browse real love stories on my blog
💍 Explore photography packages & investment details
📬 Ready to make your wedding unforgettable? Let’s connect on my contact page
Your love deserves more than just documentation—it deserves a legacy. Let’s create it, together.
