Getting Married in Bochum in Bochum

If one of you is not a German citizen, you MUST first make a consultation appointment at the registry office. There you'll learn which extra documents you need.

The foreign partner needs documents from their home country. These often need an apostille and translation by a sworn translator.

Wedding appointments in Bochum can be reserved online up to 12 months in advance. Bochum offers exceptional venues – from the Zeiss Planetarium to the Jahrhunderthalle. Note: The historic town hall is currently being renovated – alternative venue at Musikschule Westring 32.

Marriage registration must be done in person at Bochum registry office – both partners must appear (exception: power of attorney). Registration is valid for 6 months. Walk-ins possible at the information desk during opening hours.

You can decide at the registry office during the ceremony whether and who changes their name. Options: shared married name, each keeps own name, double-barrelled name. A later change is more complicated.

After a name change, a new ID card must be applied for. This is done at Bochum citizens' office (Mitte or Wattenscheid) with appointment. Bring the marriage certificate.

After the wedding you can change tax class at Bochum tax office. Classic combo: III/V (one earns much more) or IV/IV (similar income). Responsible tax office Bochum: Bochum-Mitte or Bochum-Süd depending on address.

After the wedding it's worth reviewing and possibly combining insurances: liability, household contents, disability. Many insurers offer combo rates for married couples.