It is not common for expatriates to get married in Oman. They would usually go back to their country to marry their loved ones. But the good thing is that there are more options to marry in Oman. The main qualification is that both groom and the bride only need to be residents of Oman. The wedding reception could also be at the venue of their choice. But that is not the same when it comes to the ceremony. For instance, having a service on the beach is not allowed.
If you’re planning to get married soon in Oman, then this article would surely help you identify the things you need to prepare before exchanging vows with your partner. Mentioned-below is the steps regarding how to get married in Oman.
Complete Process of Marriage in Oman
1. Get in touch with the priest or pastor
There are Protestant and Catholic churches in Ruwi and Ghala in Muscat. And you could also find Protestant churches in Salalah and Sohar. That is when couples can come to these churches to talk to a priest or pastor about the upcoming marriage.
2. Provide a copy of visa and passport
The bride and the groom need to provide a copy of these. They also need to show some evidence that they are not married yet. This will include a letter to present before the embassy. The same also applies when one is divorced or widowed. Further documents need to be provided as well.
3. Get Four Witnesses
Four witnesses need to be presented; two representing each side. They should attend the wedding ceremony. And usually, the church requires a month’s notice to the service. The church also strongly recommends pre-marital counselling.
4. Get The Marriage Certificate Attested
The newlyweds need to attest the marriage to be accurate and correct under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including its respective embassies.
5. Submit Certificates
Original baptism certificates and No Objection Certificate need to be submitted to the priest. That is one way to confirm both have not yet been married in a church.
6. Posting in the Church’s Public Noticeboard
The couples need to be ready as their declaration of intent to marry will be displayed. The posting will be in the public noticeboard of the church for a specific period. This will give way for those who want to object to the marriage not to continue.
A. Steps for Muslims and Hindus to Get Married in Oman
1. Apply at the Sharia Court
For Muslim couples, they can apply for marriage before the Sharia Court, located in Wattayah. This is where two Muslim witnesses need to be presented. All witnesses and couples must submit copies of their passports. This is because marriage may happen immediately.
2. Contact the Indian Embassy
For Hindus couples, they will be married at the Shiva Temple, The Indian Embassy, and the Darsait Temple. They only need to call the Indian Embassy to know more information about it.
B. Steps in Registering the Marriage
Below are the few steps to consider in registering the marriage in Oman.
- The couples need to register the marriage before the Department of Notary Public, located in Al Khuwayr. This should be done in just one month.
- The registration will include a completed application form, including a marriage notification from the Justice Ministry.
- An approval letter must be obtained from the Ministry of Interior. This is in the case of marrying a foreigner.
- The registration is done by the wife, the husband or even the fathers.
By follow these series of steps, you can get married in Oman with no problems at all. Getting married is a huge milestone for an individuals life, and we wish you all the luck with the length of your marriage!