How to get married as fast as possible in Hong Kong

Getting married in Hong Kong can be a complex process, but there are ways to make it faster and more convenient. One option is to consider online weddings, which enable couples to get married from the comfort of their own homes. This eliminates the need for costly travel and the complications associated with getting married abroad. 

In this article, we will provide you with essential information on getting married in Hong Kong, including how to obtain a legal US marriage certificate that is recognized in Hong Kong.

Fastest Way to Get Married in Hong Kong

To expedite the marriage process in Hong Kong, couples can opt for online marriage applications, which eliminate the need for physical presence at the marriage registry. This convenient option allows them to get married quickly and conveniently. 

Courtly is a platform that offers online wedding services, enabling virtual marriages that are legally recognized in Hong Kong, as long as they are recognized as valid by the country where the marriage is performed. Courtly ensures that the legal US marriage certificate obtained through their services is recognized as a valid document in Hong Kong. Additionally, Courtly provides assistance in obtaining apostille certification if required.

Validity of Online Marriages in Hong Kong

Marriages conducted abroad or through virtual ceremonies can be considered valid in Hong Kong if they are recognized as legal by the country where they took place. In other words, if the jurisdiction in which the marriage occurred acknowledges it as a legally binding union, Hong Kong will also recognize it as valid.

Hong Kong recognizes the legal validity of marriage certificates issued in the United States. This means that if a marriage conducted virtually or abroad is recognized as valid by the United States, it will also be considered valid in Hong Kong. Couples who obtain a legal marriage certificate in the United States can use it as proof of their marriage both internationally and in Hong Kong.

Benefits of Having a US Marriage Certificate in Hong Kong

A US marriage certificate serves as valuable proof of marriage for immigration purposes. Whether you plan to apply for a visa or other immigration documents, having a legal US marriage certificate can be beneficial. As of 2020, online marriages have been recognized as fully legal in all 50 US states. This recognition can greatly assist you when the time comes to navigate the immigration process, providing concrete evidence of your marital status.

Marriage Registration in Hong Kong

After obtaining a legal US marriage certificate, the next step is to register your marriage in Hong Kong. This involves submitting your marriage certificate to the appropriate government office, along with any additional required documentation. The exact process and required documents may vary, so it's important to consult the official guidelines provided by the relevant marriage registry in Hong Kong.

To ensure a smooth and accurate marriage registration process, it's advisable to seek clarification from officials in your jurisdiction or consult with immigration or family law attorneys. These professionals can provide guidance on the legal status of your remote appearance wedding and advise you on any additional steps or documents required for recognition in Hong Kong. Their expertise will help you navigate the specific requirements and ensure compliance with the current regulations for marriage registration in Hong Kong.

Apostille Certification and its Requirement

Apostille certification is an internationally recognized form of authentication required by countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention. If you intend to use your US marriage certificate in Hong Kong, you must have it apostilled, which involves obtaining certification from the relevant government office in the United States. Courtly offers apostille certification services, which typically take around 15 to 30 business days for the documents to reach Hong Kong after the online ceremony.

Application Process for Online Marriage in Hong Kong

Couples can conveniently complete the entire marriage process online with Courtly, regardless of their location. The process is straightforward and hassle-free. Here's a breakdown of how it works:

• Our concierge will guide you through the process of obtaining your marriage license. Using our secure ID verification system, we ensure that all necessary information is gathered accurately. We review the details to ensure everything is in order and coordinate with the relevant authorities.
• Choose a convenient time and date for your virtual ceremony. Once selected, we will match you with one of our certified US officiants who will officiate your wedding.
• You can have a simple virtual ceremony from the comfort of your own home or any other location with a reliable internet connection. The ceremony itself typically lasts only a few minutes, providing an intimate and personal experience.
• Shortly after your online ceremony, you will receive a copy of your US marriage certificate online. It serves as legal proof of your marriage. Additionally, a printed copy of the marriage certificate will be delivered to you in 1 to 2 weeks.

Cost of Online Marriage in Hong Kong

A traditional wedding in Hong Kong often entails significant expenses, including the marriage license fee, ceremony costs, and other associated expenditures. In contrast, an online wedding can offer a more cost-effective alternative. Courtly offers comprehensive packages that cover all the necessary elements for a successful online marriage.

For a fee of HKD $4,000, you will receive a valid marriage license, an online ceremony officiated by a certified US officiant, and a legally recognized US marriage certificate. Additional services, such as obtaining an apostille stamp or arranging for witnesses, may involve extra charges. You can find detailed information about these potential add-ons on Courtly's Pricing Page.

Traditional Marriage Process in Hong Kong

When planning to get married in Hong Kong, couples must follow a traditional marriage process. It begins by submitting a notice of intended marriage to the Registrar of Marriages, declaring their intention to marry. This notice is exhibited at the marriage registry for 15 clear days and should be submitted within three months of giving notice. Couples need to provide proof of their identities and residential addresses, including valid identification documents and supporting address documentation.

After the notice period, couples complete a marriage registration form, providing essential details such as personal information, the desired date and venue for the wedding ceremony, and the chosen registered celebrant. The next step involves having the wedding ceremony officiated by a registered celebrant, which can occur at a marriage registry or an approved venue. The ceremony requires at least two witnesses who can attest to the marriage. Once the ceremony is complete, the couple receives an official marriage certificate issued by the Hong Kong government, serving as legal proof of their marital union.

To ensure a successful and legally recognized marriage, couples should adhere to the necessary requirements and procedures established by the Hong Kong government. Consulting with the Registrar of Marriages or seeking legal advice can provide guidance and assistance throughout the process.

Conclusion

Opting for an online marriage with Courtly brings numerous advantages for couples seeking a fast and convenient way to tie the knot in Hong Kong. Whether they are located locally or anywhere around the globe, online marriage offers a convenient and accessible option. 

Courtly's streamlined process ensures that couples can enjoy a cost-effective alternative to traditional weddings, eliminating the need for extensive travel and expenses. With the guidance of a Courtly concierge, couples can experience a seamless journey and receive a valid US marriage certificate that holds recognition for marriage registration in Hong Kong. The simplified documentation requirements and swift processing time further enhance the appeal of Courtly's online marriage service, making it a practical and stress-free choice for couples seeking a hassle-free wedding experience.

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