Are you and your partner looking to tie the knot in a way that is simple, legally ironclad, and budget-friendly? While grand church ceremonies and elaborate traditional weddings are staples of Ghanaian culture, more couples in 2026 are opting for a Court Wedding (legally known as Marriage under the Ordinance).
At Knotting.org, Ghana’s leading wedding resource, we provide the most current updates on wedding trends and legal requirements. Whether you are looking for the latest Kente styles for engagement 2026 or trying to figure out the cost of a 200-guest wedding in Ghana, we are your ultimate planning partner.
What is a Court Wedding in Ghana?
A Court Wedding is a non-religious, civil ceremony governed by the Marriage Act (Cap 127). It is the only strictly monogamous form of marriage recognized in Ghana. This means once you are married under the Ordinance, you cannot legally marry another person unless that marriage is dissolved.
Where does it happen?
You can register your marriage at:
- The Registrar General’s Department (Accra).
- Any District or Municipal Assembly (AMA, TMA, etc.).
- The Marriage Registry at the Law Court.
Key Requirements for 2026
Before you head to the registry, ensure you meet these criteria:
- Age: Both parties must be 18 years or older.
- Consent: Both must enter the union of their own free will.
- Marital Status: You must be single, divorced (with legal proof), or widowed.Note: If you have already performed a customary marriage (traditional wedding) to the same partner, you can “convert” it to an Ordinance marriage.
- Witnesses: You need two witnesses from each side (four in total).
The Step-by-Step Process
- File a Notice of Marriage: Visit your local Municipal Assembly. You will fill out a “Notice of Marriage” form with your biographical details.
- The 21-Day Waiting Period: Your notice is posted on the registry’s public board for 21 days. This is to allow anyone with a legal objection (e.g., an existing marriage) to come forward.
- The Registrar’s Certificate: If no objections are raised after 21 days, you are issued a certificate. This certificate is valid for three months. You must marry within this window!
- The Ceremony: A brief 10–15 minute session where you exchange vows and sign the Marriage Register.
2026 Cost Breakdown: How Much is a Court Wedding?
While prices fluctuate slightly based on your specific District Assembly, here are the estimated costs for 2026 according to the Accra Metropolitan Assembly:
| Item | Estimated Fee (GHS) |
| Notice of Marriage Filing | GH₵ 150 – GH₵ 250 |
| Registrar’s Certificate | GH₵ 150 – GH₵ 300 |
| Marriage Ceremony/Certificate | GH₵ 300 – GH₵ 500 |
| Total Estimated Legal Fees | GH₵ 600 – GH₵ 1,050 |
Budget Tip: Want to save even more? Check out our exclusive wedding discounts and deals in Ghana for savings on rings, photography, and more!
Why Choose a Court Wedding?
- Affordability: You save thousands compared to a full-scale white wedding.
- Legal Security: It offers the strongest legal protection regarding inheritance and property rights in Ghana.
- Speed: Ideal for couples who want to avoid the months of planning required for large events.
READ ALSO: AMA – Marriage Registration
Planning Your Next Steps?
Even a simple court wedding deserves a touch of luxury. Whether you are looking for “18k gold wedding ring sets prices in Ghana” or the “best wedding dress rental shops near me” to wear to the registry, we have the answers.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by the paperwork or need advice on how to blend your court wedding with a traditional “Akonta Sekan” ceremony, don’t worry!
Ask Emefa: Get personalized advice from our resident expert, Emefa, the Wedding Expert, who can answer your specific questions about Ghanaian marriage rites. Contact Emefa here
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