Civil marriage ceremony
The registrar asks the couple one after the other whether they wish to marry each other. If they both answer "yes", they are legally joined as husband and wife. Up to two witnesses may be present at the marriage ceremony. The number of other wedding guests present is left to the bride and groom.
The marriage is recorded in the marriage register. In addition, a family record book will be issued at the request of the couple. The family record book is a private collection of documents.
Marriage abroad
In principle, marriages are also recognized in the Federal Republic of Germany if they are concluded abroad. However, the marriage must then be concluded in the form that is customary in the respective foreign country.
Before getting married abroad, the German citizen(s) should obtain a so-called certificate of matrimonial capacity from the competent German registry office. This is required by most foreign registry offices. It should also be noted that foreign marriage certificates may only be recognized in Germany after certification by the foreign authorities or the respective German consulate in the foreign country. As there are different requirements to be met, it is advisable to seek advice from the German registry office in your place of residence before planning a marriage abroad. Information sheets for marriages abroad are also available from the Federal Office of Administration in Cologne (see "Further links"). Information can also be obtained from the respective German consulates or consular sections of German embassies abroad.
Marriages of Germans concluded abroad can be subsequently notarized at the registry office of the place of residence. Your local registry office will be happy to advise you.