To obtain a civil marriage certificate in Zambia, you must follow the statutory procedure under the [Marriage Act, Cap. 50]. Both parties must visit your local council civic centre or marriage registry in person and meet with the Marriage Registrar. You will complete a Notice of Intended Marriage (Form 1), which triggers a mandatory 21-day public notice period. During this time, the notice is displayed publicly so that anyone with an objection may come forward.
After the 21-day period has elapsed, the Marriage Registrar will solemnise the marriage in front of witnesses and issue your marriage certificate (Form 5 or 6). Within 7 days, a counterpart copy is sent to the Registrar-General's office for central record-keeping.
Bring both parties' valid National Registration Cards (NRCs); proof of single status or non-impediment (such as an affidavit, divorce decree, or death certificate of a previous spouse); proof of residence and age; and identified witnesses. If either party is under age, you must also provide High Court consent or parental consent. The Registrar-General's office manages the national records, and you can contact your local council to confirm current fees and booking arrangements, as costs vary by venue.
Note that customary marriage is also recognised in Zambia but is handled differently and is not centrally registered like a civil marriage.