Is It Legal to Get Married in Bali? What Australian Couples Need to Know

Yes, Australian couples can legally get married in Bali. It just takes a little more paperwork than getting married at home. Most couples actually choose a different path. Here is the full picture.

Two paths to choose from

You have two real options. The first is to get legally married in Bali. The second is to handle the legal side at home in Australia and have a symbolic wedding in Bali. Most Australian couples choose option two, and there are good reasons why.

Option 1: Legal wedding in Bali

Documents required

You will need certified copies of your birth certificates, passports, statutory declarations of single status and proof of religion. All documents need to be translated into Indonesian and lodged with the local civil registry.

Religious requirement

Indonesia recognises civil marriage only when paired with a religious ceremony. You and your partner need to share the same recognised religion, which can be a hurdle for some couples.

Timing

Plan to arrive in Bali at least three to four working days before the wedding to lodge paperwork. A planner can guide you through the process.

Option 2: Legalise at home, celebrate in Bali

Why most Australians choose this

It is faster, cheaper and removes the religious requirement. You sign your paperwork at a registry office in Australia with two witnesses, then fly to Bali for the wedding day you actually want. On paper you are married in Australia. On the day, your Bali ceremony is the one that counts to you and your guests.

What you will need either way

Valid passports with at least six months left, return flights, accommodation booked, travel insurance and confirmation that your celebrant or planner has the documentation they need from your country of residence.

Get help from a planner

The legal side is one of the trickiest parts of a destination wedding. A good Bali wedding planner has done it hundreds of times and will save you hours of confusion. Married In Bali features planners who specialise in Australian couples and know the paperwork inside out.

Where to start

Decide which path suits you, then talk to a planner before you book anything else. Getting this part right means the rest of the planning is easy.