16-8-2023 (SINGAPORE) Singapore’s Registry of Marriages (ROM) and Registry of Muslim Marriages (ROMM) are set to undergo changes to streamline the marriage process for couples. Beginning on September 25, eligible couples will have the option to complete their marriage registration online through the Our Marriage Journey portal, eliminating the need for a physical visit to the ROM. Currently, couples are required to meet with an officer either in person or online to finalize their marriage documents.
The COVID-19 pandemic introduced video-link solemnisations as a temporary measure, but they will now become a permanent option. Additionally, couples will no longer be obligated to sign a hard copy marriage certificate during the solemnisation ceremony. Instead, they will receive a digital certificate via email after the ceremony, serving as proof of marriage. Couples will also have the choice of receiving a ceremonial certificate in hard copy.
The transition to digital certificates aims to provide convenience for couples by eliminating the need for physical storage of documents. The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) emphasized that the digitalisation of the marriage process aligns with Singapore’s broader move towards online services. Since May 29 last year, physical birth and death certificates have been replaced by digital certificates.
Solemniser Teo Lin Lee expressed her approval of the changes, noting that online registration will simplify the process for solemnisers as well. Instead of mailing physical certificates back to the ROM or ROMM, solemnisers can now register marriages online with a simple click. Teo also anticipates that couples will appreciate the option of a customisable ceremonial certificate to commemorate their special day.
Despite the availability of online solemnisations, many couples still prefer to have their loved ones present for the celebration. Solemniser Teo believes that a combination of physical and digital elements will be the way forward for couples, providing the best of both worlds.
Registrar Timothy Pak assured that even with the changes, the solemnisation process will continue to uphold decorum and respect for the occasion. Furthermore, safeguards against sham marriages will remain in place, and any suspicions will be investigated in cooperation with the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority.
The digitalisation of the marriage process aims to provide greater convenience for couples, eliminating the need for in-person visits for the verification of documents. However, certain individuals, such as those below the age of 21, those with previous marriages, and foreigners with foreign documents, will still be required to undergo in-person verification.
The authorities also announced the expansion of the Journey with You initiative, which pairs newly-wed couples with licensed solemnisers for mentoring throughout their first year of marriage. The program will now include trained community volunteers as mentors to further support newly-wed couples. Muslim couples will still need to attend face-to-face sessions with religious officials, known as Kadi and Naib Kadi, who solemnise Muslim marriages. Couples can also participate in marriage preparation programs like Cinta Abadi (Eternal Love) and receive mentoring from their marriage solemnisers through the Bersamamu (With You) program.
