Types of Marriages Recognized in Nigeria
Nigeria recognizes two main types of marriages:
- Customary Marriage: Based on the traditions of the ethnic group involved. These are not automatically recognized internationally unless registered.
- Statutory (Civil) Marriage: Conducted under Nigerian law at a Marriage Registry. This is the most common type for foreign nationals, as it offers formal legal status and is internationally recognized.
- Religious Marriage: May be conducted in churches or mosques, but must be registered at the Marriage Registry to be legally binding under Nigerian law.
Legal Requirements for Réunion Citizens to Marry in Nigeria
Réunion citizens (as French overseas citizens) must meet the following conditions to marry legally in Nigeria:
- Minimum Age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
- Free Consent: Both parties must consent freely to the marriage.
- Certificate of No Impediment (Certificat de Célibat): Issued by French authorities in Réunion or the French embassy, confirming you're legally free to marry.
- Sworn Affidavit of Marital Status: This must be submitted in Nigeria, affirming you're single (or divorced/widowed).
- Birth Certificate & Passport: Valid identification must be presented.
- Two Witnesses: Required for the ceremony, with valid ID documents.
Documents Required for Réunion Citizens Marrying in Nigeria
Before the marriage can proceed, the following documents must be submitted, many of which may require certified translations into English:
- International Passport (valid and with visa or entry stamp)
- Birth Certificate
- Certificate of No Impediment issued by French authorities
- Sworn Affidavit of Marital Status (to be sworn in a Nigerian court)
- Divorce/Death Certificate (if previously married)
- Two Passport Photos
- Proof of Address (hotel booking, residency card, etc.)
- Certified Translations of French documents (via Translayte)
Step-by-Step Process to Marry in Nigeria as a Réunion Citizen
- Visit the Nearest Marriage Registry: Choose a Federal Marriage Registry (e.g., Ikoyi or Abuja) and book an appointment.
- Give Notice of Marriage: Both parties must be physically present to file a notice of intention to marry. This notice is displayed publicly for 21 days.
- Document Submission: Submit all required documents, including translations of French documents.
- Verification & Interview: Authorities may conduct an interview to verify the legitimacy of the relationship.
- Pay Required Fees: Government and registry fees apply (usually between ₦10,000 – ₦30,000).
- Civil Marriage Ceremony: After the 21-day notice, the couple can choose a date for the wedding at the registry. Two witnesses are required.
- Receive Marriage Certificate: Upon conclusion of the ceremony, the marriage certificate will be issued.
Certified Document Translation for French Documents in Nigeria
Most official documents issued in Réunion will be in French, while Nigeria's official language is English. Therefore, certified English translations of the following documents may be required: birth certificates, certificates of no impediment, divorce or death certificates, and any supporting legal declarations. Translayte provides certified translations accepted by Nigerian authorities, embassies, and courts. We recommend completing translations before submitting your application to avoid delays.
Legalizing Your Marriage Certificate for Use in France or Réunion
After the wedding, Réunion citizens may need to register the Nigerian marriage with French authorities for it to be recognized in Réunion:
- Apply for a legalized (apostilled) marriage certificate through the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Submit the certificate and translations to the French embassy in Nigeria or your local registry office in Réunion for official recognition.
Cost of Marriage in Nigeria for Réunion Citizens
Typical costs involved include:
- Registry Fees: ₦10,000–₦30,000
- Translation Fees: $31.75 per page (varies depending on the document and language pair)
- Document Legalization: ₦10,000 – ₦50,000 per document
- Travel and Accommodation: Depending on the length of stay and location in Nigeria
Tips for a Smooth Marriage Process
- Begin the process early to allow time for the 21-day public notice and translation of documents.
- Double-check the latest requirements with the Marriage Registry and the French Embassy in Nigeria.
- Use professional translation services like Translayte to avoid rejections or delays.
- Bring original documents and at least one set of certified copies.
