Siviilivihkiminen

Siviilivihkiminen is the Finnish term for a civil marriage ceremony. It is a secular rite performed by a public official, such as a judge or a designated registrar, as opposed to a religious ceremony conducted by clergy. In Finland, civil marriage is legally recognized and holds the same validity as a church wedding.

To be eligible for civil marriage in Finland, both individuals must meet the legal requirements, which typically include being of legal age and not being currently married. The process usually involves submitting a marriage notification to the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (Digi- ja väestötietovirasto) and then booking an appointment for the ceremony at a local registry office or a designated venue.

During the civil ceremony, the couple exchanges vows and is pronounced married by the officiant. Witnesses are generally required. The ceremony is typically brief and focuses on the legal and personal commitment between the two individuals. It provides an option for those who do not wish to have a religious wedding or who may not belong to a religious community. The legal aspects of marriage, such as rights and responsibilities, are identical regardless of whether the ceremony is civil or religious.