💍 How to Get an Affidavit of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage (U.S. Citizen Marrying in the Philippines)

If you’re a U.S. citizen planning to marry a Filipino (or vice versa) in the Philippines, one of the most important documents you’ll need is the Affidavit of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage. This notarized document is required by local civil registrars and must be issued by the U.S. Embassy in Manila or the U.S. Consular Agency in Cebu.

👉 No other substitute is accepted, and local notarizations will not be honored. Here's a complete and personalized guide on how to get it done:

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📝 Step-by-Step Guide: Getting the Affidavit

✅ 1. Book an Appointment Online

• Go to the U.S. Embassy website and select either Manila or Cebu based on your location.
• Appointments fill fast, so check daily for available slots. Walk-ins are not allowed.
• Print your appointment confirmation. 📄

✅ 2. Prepare Your Affidavit

• You can draft your own or use the sample template from the U.S. Embassy.
• All content must be in English.
• Do not sign the affidavit yet. You'll sign it in person before the consular officer.

💡 TIP: Having your affidavit pre-filled will save time. Embassy staff can answer basic questions but can’t offer legal advice.

✅ 3. What to Bring on Appointment Day

📌 Checklist:

• Your valid government-issued ID (passport is best)
• A printed copy of your appointment confirmation
• The printed affidavit
• 💵 $50 or ₱2,927.78 (check latest exchange rate)
• 💳 Optional: Credit card and ID for payment (cash also accepted)

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🛂 Embassy Visit Process

🛑 Security Protocol:

• Arrive no more than 15 minutes before your appointment.
• Phones, alcohol, or sharp objects are not allowed. Leave them at the counter after security check.
• All bags go through X-ray; you pass through a metal detector. 🎒🚶‍♂️

🏛️ Inside the Embassy/Agency:

1. After clearance, follow signs to the notary waiting area.
2. Show your ID and appointment printout; you’ll be given a number.
3. On the 2nd floor (Windows 16–22), wait for your number to be called.

💡 TIP: If in Cebu, notary hours are 9:15 a.m.–11:30 a.m.; in Manila, 12:45 p.m.–2:30 p.m., Monday to Friday (excluding U.S. and PH holidays).

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✍️ Signing & Notarization Process

1. Once your number is called, present your ID and unsigned affidavit.
2. You’ll be asked to take an oath or affirmation.
3. Then, sign the document in front of the consular officer.
4. Pay the fee at Window 15 (cashier).
5. After payment, return to your window. Your document will be notarized and handed to you.

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🔔 Important Reminders:

• 📸 Photography is prohibited near or inside the Embassy.
• 📅 Be early, but not more than 15 minutes early.
• 📝 No other documents or photos required, just the affidavit and a valid ID.
• 🗓️ Always double-check holidays that may affect your appointment.

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❤️ Getting legally married in the Philippines as a U.S. citizen requires preparation—but it’s not impossible. Once you have your notarized affidavit, you can proceed with the marriage license application at your local civil registrar.

If you found this helpful, share this post with a friend or couple planning to tie the knot in the Philippines! 💒