Zimbabwe Marriage Certificate

Types of Marriage in Zimbabwe

Chapter 5:11 (Civil Marriage)

A civil marriage under the Marriages Act. It is monogamous — neither party can marry another person while the marriage subsists. This is the most common form of marriage for legal and administrative purposes.

Customary Marriage (Chapter 5:07)

A marriage under the Customary Marriages Act. It follows traditional customs and may be potentially polygamous. Must be registered with the Registrar General to be legally recognised.

Requirements for a Civil Marriage (Chapter 5:11)

Both parties must be at least 18 years old
Both parties must have national IDs or valid birth certificates
Neither party must be currently married
Two witnesses who are 18 or older with valid IDs
Marriage banns must be published 21 days before the wedding (posted at the Registrar General's office)
If previously married: divorce order or death certificate of former spouse
If under 18 (with court permission): written consent of parent/guardian

How to Register a Customary Marriage

Visit the Registrar General's office with both parties present
Bring national IDs of both parties
Provide details of the lobola/roora payment
Bring two witnesses (typically elders from both families)
Pay the registration fee (~US$5)

Why register? An unregistered customary marriage may not be recognised for inheritance, pension claims (NSSA benefits), or property rights.

How to Get a Certified Copy

If you've lost your marriage certificate or need an official copy:

Visit the Registrar General's Office

Go to the Registrar General's office in Harare (Simon Muzenda Street) or Bulawayo.

Provide Marriage Details

Give the approximate date of marriage, place of marriage, and full names of both parties.

Present Your ID

Show your national ID. If applying on behalf of someone else, bring a signed authority letter and both IDs.

Pay and Collect

Pay approximately US$5. The certified copy is usually ready within 5 working days.

Cost

Service	Fee
Marriage registration	~US$5-10
Marriage banns publication	~US$5
Marriage certificate (original)	Included in registration
Certified copy of marriage certificate	~US$5

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Chapter 5:11 marriage in Zimbabwe?

A Chapter 5:11 marriage is a civil marriage registered under the Marriages Act (Chapter 5:11). It is monogamous — neither party can marry another person while the marriage subsists.

How do I get a certified copy of my marriage certificate?

Visit the Registrar General's office with your national ID and provide the approximate date and place of marriage. Pay the applicable fee (approximately US$5). Processing takes about 5 working days.

Is a customary marriage legally recognised in Zimbabwe?

Yes. Customary marriages are legally recognised under the Customary Marriages Act (Chapter 5:07). They must be registered with the Registrar General to be fully recognised for legal purposes.

Can I convert a customary marriage to a civil marriage?

Yes, but you must go through the full civil marriage registration process including publishing banns. The customary marriage will then be superseded by the civil marriage.