Step-by-step guide to registering a marriage in Korea
This procedure applies both to a New Zealand citizen marrying another New Zealand citizen or a New Zealand citizen marrying a non-New Zealand citizen in Korea.
Step 1 - Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (DIA)
The New Zealander intending to get married in Korea must complete and sign form BDM189: Application for a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage.
This Form can be downloaded from the website of New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs. (www.dia.govt.nz(external link)) Completed forms must be submitted to the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs by post. An apostille is required in Korea so the applicant needs to request that from DIA.
The Department of Internal Affairs will then issue an apostilled Certificate of No Impediment and send it to the applicant by courier. The average required time for this process is 3 to 5 weeks.
Step 2 - Marriage Registration (Local District Office)
The applicants need to visit their relevant Gu-office to register their marriage. The applicants should confirm with the Gu-office what documentation is required before their visit.