Differences between Civil and Muslim Law Marriage in Singapore

Divorce Process

For the past 5 years, an average of more than 70 marriages have occurred daily in Singapore.

Marriage can occur under two branches: civil marriage and Muslim marriage. But what are the distinctions to getting these marriages recognised? This article outlines the key similarities and differences in criteria to get a marriage solemnised under civil and Muslim Law in Singapore.

Civil Marriage	Muslim Law Marriage
Similarities
Both individuals need to be at least 21 years old. Only heterosexual couples are allowed in Singapore You cannot be currently married to another individual Marriages with ex-spouses need to be legally dissolved If you are a divorcee, you need to declare any maintenance orders in your statutory declarations If you are between the ages of 18 and 21, it is mandatory to complete the marriage preparation programme Submit marriage application Book for date, time and venue for solemnisation Attend solemnisation
Differences
You cannot be closely related to your fiancée/fiancé. At least one party needs to be non-Muslim 2 witnesses – one for groom and one for bride, both above the age of 21 Book for a solemniser 3-6 months before date of solemnisation Book and attend appointment with ROM	Both individuals need to be Muslim For Muslim converts, you will need to obtain the official permanent conversion certificate from the Muslim Converts’ Association of Singapore The groom would need to get permission from the bride’s wali (male legal guardian) 2 Wakil (witnesses) – one for groom and one for bride. Both need to be Muslim men as witnesses and above the age of 21 Book for a Kadi or Naib Kadi within 21 – 150 days before date of marriage application Kadi: A religious official who can solemnise the wedding with or without the bride’s wali Naib Kadi: A religious official who can only solemnise the wedding with the bride’s wali Attend Bersamamu (an in-person session) with your Kadi or Naib Kadi Book and attend appointment with ROMM