Complete Legal Guide to Getting a Marriage Book (Buku Nikah / Catatan Sipil) for Foreigners in Indonesia

Legal Foundations of Marriage in Indonesia

Under Indonesian Law No. 1 of 1974 on Marriage, a marriage is legally valid if it is performed according to the religious laws of the couple and followed by official registration:

• •For Muslims: Registered through the Office of Religious Affairs (KUA - Kantor Urusan Agama), which issues the official Buku Nikah (Marriage Book).
• •For Non-Muslims: Performed according to religious rites, followed by official civil registration at the Dukcapil (Civil Registry Office), resulting in an Akta Perkawinan (Marriage Certificate).

Visa Nest operates in Legian, Bali (Jl. Legian No.786, Kuta, Bali 80361; WhatsApp +62 821 2777 721) to guide couples through legal requirements and family KITAS sponsorship.

Essential Documents Required for Foreigners

Foreign citizens intending to marry in Indonesia must prepare and legalize several documents:

• •Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI): Obtained from your home country embassy in Indonesia.
• •Valid Passport: Original passport and clear color copies.
• •Birth Certificate: Translated into Indonesian by a sworn translator.
• •Divorce Decree or Death Certificate: Official proof if previously married.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Mixed Marriages

1. Embassy Legalization: Secure your CNI and translate essential documents.
2. Religious Ceremony & Registration: Submit documents to the local KUA or authorized place of worship.
3. Civil Registration (Dukcapil): Obtain the state Akta Perkawinan or Buku Nikah.

Family KITAS Sponsorship

Once registered, the Indonesian spouse can sponsor the foreign partner for a Spousal / Family KITAS (Index C317) for long-term residency and work rights. Contact Visa Nest via WhatsApp (+62 821 2777 721) for expert assistance.