How to Marry in Zanzibar

Zanzibar Marriage Law Requirements

What are the legal requirements to get married in Zanzibar?
Legal age for marriage without parental consent is 18 years for both men and women.
Bride and Groom may not be related by blood, marriage or adoption.
Two witnesses are required.

How long do I have to be resident in Zanzibar before I can get married?
You will need to be in Zanzibar for at least 2 working days before you can legally marry.

Getting a marriage licence
Your intent to marry must be posted for 21 days before you can exchange your vows.
You must send an application stating that you are both single and intend to marry to the Regional Commissioner, stating that you are both single and wish to marry in Zanzibar, the marriage date, your full names, domiciles, birth dates, the full names, birth dates and birthplaces of both sets of parents. You must both sign it and it must be notarised if you are having a civil ceremony.

What legal papers do I need to take with me?
Ten-year passports & 2 photocopies
Full birth certificates
Certificate of No Impediment
Certificate of Domicile stating where you live
2 passport photos each
If you have been divorced then the final divorce papers must be shown.
If you are widowed then your previous marriage certificate and the death certificate of your previous spouse must be shown.
If you are having a religious ceremony you will need a letter from your church stating that you have followed the requirements of your church to get married and that banns have been posted in your home country.
All documents must be stamped with an apostille and notarised.