Planning to tie the knot in Singapore? Whether you’re a Singaporean couple or a foreigner marrying locally, navigating the Registry of Marriages (ROM) process can feel overwhelming. This ROM Singapore guide breaks down everything you need to know — from filing your Notice of Marriage to choosing the ideal solemnisation venue — so you can focus on what matters most: celebrating your love.
What Is ROM and How Does It Work in Singapore?
The Registry of Marriages (ROM) is the government body that administers civil marriages in Singapore under the Women’s Charter. If you’re not marrying under Muslim law (which falls under ROMM), all marriages in Singapore must be registered through ROM.
There are two key components to getting legally married in Singapore:
- Filing the Notice of Marriage — an official declaration of your intent to marry
- The Solemnisation Ceremony — the actual marriage ceremony conducted by a licensed solemniser
You can choose to solemnise your marriage at the ROM building itself, or at any venue of your choice — from a hotel ballroom to a charming colonial black-and-white bungalow like Under Der Linden.
Step-by-Step ROM Process: Filing Your Notice of Marriage
Here’s a clear breakdown of the ROM process in Singapore for 2026:
1. Check Your Eligibility
Before filing, ensure both parties meet these requirements:
- At least one party must be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Both parties must be at least 21 years old (18-21 requires parental consent)
- Neither party is currently married
- Both parties are of opposite sex (for civil marriages under the Women’s Charter)
2. File the Notice of Marriage Online
Filing is done via the ROM website (rom.gov.sg) using your SingPass. Here’s the timeline:
- Earliest filing: 15 days before your intended solemnisation date
- Latest filing: Up to 2 years before the solemnisation
- The notice is valid for 3 months after the 21-day waiting period
Filing fee: $42 for Singapore Citizens/PRs (as of 2026). You’ll need your NRIC or passport details, plus your solemniser’s licence number.
3. Wait for the 21-Day Notice Period
After filing, there’s a mandatory 21-day waiting period. During this time, the public can raise any lawful objections. Most couples use this period to finalise their ceremony details and venue preparations.
4. Solemnise Your Marriage
Once the notice period ends, you have 3 months to solemnise your marriage. The ceremony must include:
- A licensed solemniser (ROM-appointed or from your religious organisation)
- At least 2 witnesses aged 21 and above
- Both bride and groom present in person
How Much Does ROM Cost in Singapore?
Understanding the costs helps with budgeting. Here’s a breakdown for your ROM Singapore guide:
- Notice of Marriage filing fee: $42
- Solemnisation at ROM building: $26 (weekdays) to $32 (weekends/public holidays)
- Marriage certificate: Included with the solemnisation fee
- External venue solemnisation: No additional ROM fee — but your venue, solemniser, and decorator costs vary
The ROM building ceremony is the most affordable option, but many couples prefer a more personalised setting. External venues range from a few hundred dollars for simple setups to several thousand for premium heritage spaces.
Where Can You Hold Your ROM Solemnisation Ceremony?
This is where the fun begins! Singapore offers a wonderful range of solemnisation venues. Here are the most popular options:
ROM Building at Canning Rise
The most straightforward option — functional, affordable, and no-fuss. Ideal if you want a quick civil ceremony without the extras.
Hotels and Restaurants
Many hotels offer ROM packages with catering, florals, and photography included. However, these can be pricey and feel impersonal.
Heritage and Colonial Venues
For couples seeking character and charm, heritage venues offer something truly special. Under Der Linden is one of Singapore’s most sought-after ROM-registered solemnisation venues — a beautifully restored colonial black-and-white bungalow nestled in the leafy Wessex Estate.
What makes Under Der Linden perfect for your ROM ceremony:
- ROM-registered venue — licensed for civil marriage solemnisations
- Indoor and outdoor options — exchange vows in the lush garden or elegant indoor dining space
- Seats up to 80 guests — ideal for intimate celebrations with close family and friends
- Stunning photo opportunities — the heritage architecture, garden greenery, and warm interiors create picture-perfect backdrops
- Catering included — celebrate with a post-ceremony dinner featuring Modern European cuisine with Asian influences
- Free parking — convenient for guests driving in
Outdoor and Garden Venues
Parks, beaches, and garden venues are popular for nature-loving couples. Just be mindful of Singapore’s weather — always have a wet-weather plan! Venues like Under Der Linden offer the best of both worlds with covered garden areas and air-conditioned indoor spaces as backup.
How to Choose a Solemniser for Your ROM Ceremony
In Singapore, your marriage must be officiated by a licensed solemniser. You have several options:
- ROM-appointed solemnisers: Available when you book a ceremony at the ROM building
- Licensed solemnisers: Independent officiants registered with ROM — many offer personalised ceremonies
- Religious solemnisers: Pastors, priests, or other religious leaders with valid ROM licences
You can search for licensed solemnisers on the ROM website. Many couples choose an independent solemniser who can craft a customised ceremony script — adding personal vows, readings, and rituals that make the occasion uniquely yours.
What Documents Do You Need for ROM in Singapore?
Prepare these documents before filing your Notice of Marriage:
- NRIC (for Singapore Citizens and PRs)
- Valid passport (for foreigners)
- Birth certificate (if born overseas)
- Deed poll (if you’ve changed your name)
- Divorce certificate or death certificate of former spouse (if previously married)
- Parental consent form (if either party is between 18-21)
- Solemniser’s licence number
If either party is a foreigner, additional documentation such as a Certificate of No Impediment from their home country may be required.
ROM Singapore Guide: Timeline Checklist
Planning your ROM ceremony? Here’s a recommended timeline:
6-12 Months Before
- Research and shortlist solemnisation venues
- Visit venues — book a venue tour at Under Der Linden to see the space in person
- Choose and engage your solemniser
- Begin planning your guest list (remember: minimum 2 witnesses required)
3-6 Months Before
- Confirm your venue booking and solemniser
- Arrange photography, florals, and any décor
- Plan your post-ceremony celebration — whether a sit-down dinner or casual reception
- If having your reception at Under Der Linden, discuss menu options with the events team
15 Days – 2 Months Before
- File your Notice of Marriage online at rom.gov.sg
- Prepare all required documents
- Send invitations to your guests
21 Days Before
- Waiting period begins after filing — use this time to finalise details
- Confirm ceremony script with your solemniser
- Do a final venue walkthrough
The Big Day
- Arrive early for setup and photos
- Ensure your 2 witnesses have their NRICs/passports
- Sign the marriage certificate
- Celebrate!
Frequently Asked Questions About ROM in Singapore
Can foreigners get married at ROM Singapore?
Yes, as long as at least one party is a Singapore Citizen or PR. Foreigners will need additional documentation — check the ROM website for the latest requirements.
How long does the ROM process take?
From filing the Notice of Marriage, there’s a mandatory 21-day waiting period. After that, you have 3 months to hold your solemnisation ceremony. The ceremony itself can be as quick as 15 minutes.
Can I have my ROM ceremony anywhere?
Yes! You can solemnise your marriage at any location in Singapore — your home, a restaurant, a park, or a dedicated event venue. Many couples choose heritage venues like Under Der Linden in Wessex Estate for a memorable setting that combines old-world charm with modern convenience.
What’s the difference between ROM and ROMM?
ROM (Registry of Marriages) handles civil marriages under the Women’s Charter. ROMM (Registry of Muslim Marriages) handles marriages under Muslim law. The processes and requirements differ — consult ROMM if your marriage falls under Muslim law.
Why Under Der Linden Is the Perfect ROM Venue in Singapore
If you’re looking for a solemnisation venue that combines heritage charm, lush greenery, and warm hospitality, Under Der Linden ticks every box. Located at Wessex Estate along Portsdown Road, this colonial black-and-white bungalow offers:
- A ROM-registered venue with experienced event coordination
- Flexible indoor/outdoor ceremony spaces surrounded by mature trees and gardens
- Capacity for up to 80 guests — perfect for intimate celebrations
- Modern European cuisine with Asian influences for your post-ceremony dinner
- A pet-friendly space — yes, your fur baby can be part of the celebration!
- Free parking and easy access near Buona Vista MRT
Whether you envision a garden solemnisation under the trees or an elegant indoor ceremony in a heritage setting, Under Der Linden provides the perfect backdrop for your happily ever after.
Ready to Plan Your ROM Ceremony?
Your ROM journey should be exciting, not stressful. With this ROM Singapore guide, you have everything you need to navigate the process confidently. Start by filing your Notice of Marriage, choose a venue and solemniser that reflect your personality, and enjoy every moment of this special chapter.
If you’re considering Under Der Linden as your solemnisation venue, visit our events page to learn more and enquire about available dates. Our team would love to help you plan the perfect intimate celebration.
Already had your ROM? Check out our guide to indoor vs outdoor weddings in Singapore as you plan your wedding celebration!
