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Verified rules

Getting married

The preparatory procedure at the civil register office, proof of legal residence, the ceremony window and what to report afterwards.

Civena’s verified rule set covers 4 steps for this situation. Which of them apply depends on your canton, commune, permit and household.

Rules checked against official sources on 25 September 2026.

Work out my steps

Getting married: what you may have to do

Before the ceremony

  1. Apply for the marriage preparatory procedure

    Municipality

    Both of you apply to the civil register office at the place of residence of one of you. The office tells you which documents to submit; you then sign the declaration concerning the conditions for marriage.

    Why
    ZGB Art. 98: application at the civil register office of the place of residence.
    Authority
    Civil register office of your place of residence (ch.ch, opens in a new tab)
    Report incorrect information

  2. Marry within three months of the completion notice

    Federal

    Once the office notifies you that the preparatory procedure is complete, the ceremony can take place within three months, at a civil register office of your choice, with two adult witnesses.

    Why
    ZGB Art. 100.
    Authority
    Civil register office of your place of residence (ch.ch, opens in a new tab)
    Report incorrect information

After the ceremony

  1. Report your new civil status (and any new surname)

    Municipality

    After the wedding, give notice to the commune, the cantonal tax authorities, your employer, your bank, the post office and your insurers.

    Why
    ch.ch: what to do after the wedding.
    Authority
    Residents’ registration office of your commune (ch.ch, opens in a new tab)
    Report incorrect information

Getting married: official starting points

Frequently asked questions

I’m getting married: what do I have to do?
Depending on your situation, the steps include: Apply for the marriage preparatory procedure; Report your new civil status (and any new surname).