Register a customary or religious marriage
From: Government of Kenya (public information)
Published 2 June 2026 · Last updated 2 June 2026
Find out how to legally register a traditional customary marriage or a union solemnized by religious leaders (Christian, Hindu, or Islamic) in Kenya. This page covers registration timelines, required files, and statutory fees on eCitizen.
Warning This is an independent guide — not a government website. Never share passwords or OTPs with agents. Only pay through official portals. Scams and fake websites
No direct application link is listed yet. Try eCitizen or contact government.
Quick facts
- Processing time
- 3 to 7 working days once the electronic files pass the Registrar's verification checks.
- Base cost
- From Ksh 1,450 to Ksh 3,950 total fee
- How to apply
- Online (Digital submission)
Fees and times can change. Confirm on the official site before you pay.
Before you start
- Both parties must be at least 18 years of age.
- For Customary Unions: Both parties must belong to communities that practice customary law, and all essential traditional rites (such as dowry arrangements) must be fully concluded.
- For Religious Unions: The church, temple, or mosque where the wedding occurs must be actively licensed by the Registrar of Marriages.
Documents you need
- Scanned color copies of National ID cards or valid Passports for both the bride and groom.
- Scanned color copies of official Birth Certificates for both parties.
- For Customary Marriage: A formal letter or certificate from the local administrative Assistant Chief confirming the customary wedding rites occurred, alongside a signed Customary Marriage Declaration form.
- For Religious Marriage: The official physical Marriage Return form (signed by the couple, witnesses, and the licensed minister) given to you on your wedding day.
Fees and charges
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Customary Marriage Online Registration and Issuance Fee | Ksh 3,900 |
| Christian / Hindu Marriage Return Entry & Certificate Fee | Ksh 1,400 |
| eCitizen Portal Convenience Charge (Per Transaction) | Ksh 50 |
Questions
Is a customary marriage legally equal to a civil marriage certificate?
Yes. Once a customary marriage is registered on eCitizen and the Registrar issues the certificate, it holds full legal status under the Marriage Act of Kenya. The key difference is that a customary marriage is legally recognized as potentially polygamous or polygynous, unlike a monogamous civil marriage.
What happens if we register a customary marriage after the 6-month deadline?
If you miss the 6-month window following your traditional wedding rites, the standard registration portal locks. You must apply under a separate "Late Registration of Customary Marriage" option, which involves an extra penalty surcharge and manual legal evaluation loops.