Brussels – Belgium is experiencing a surge in marriages, with a notable increase in unions between Belgian citizens and partners of different nationalities. Recent data indicates a significant rise in both the overall number of marriages and the proportion of internationally-coupled couples choosing to tie the knot in the country. This trend reflects Belgium’s increasingly diverse population and its growing appeal as a destination for international families.
According to figures released by Statbel, the Belgian statistical office, 48,589 marriages were registered in 2024. This represents a 4.3% increase compared to 2023, marking the highest number of marriages since the turn of the millennium. The increase was observed across all regions of Belgium – Flanders (+6.7%), Wallonia (+2.8%), and the Brussels-Capital Region (+3.1%).
A Rise in International Unions
A key driver of this overall increase is the growing number of marriages involving partners from different national backgrounds. Approximately 22.5% of all marriages registered in 2024 were considered “mixed marriages,” meaning at least one partner was not of Belgian nationality. This figure highlights the increasing internationalization of Belgian society and the country’s role as a hub for cross-cultural relationships.
The Belgian government recognizes the validity of foreign marriages, provided they meet the legal requirements of both partners’ national laws and the formal requirements of the country where the marriage took place. Foreign marriage certificates can be registered in Belgium, allowing couples to establish their marital status within the Belgian legal system.
Legal Requirements for Marriage in Belgium
For couples wishing to marry in Belgium, several conditions must be met. According to the Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, a marriage can be legally performed in Belgium if one of the future spouses is a Belgian national at the time of the marriage. Alternatively, one of the spouses must have been residing in Belgium at the time of the marriage. Residency is defined as having lived in Belgium for more than three months.
Recent legislative changes have too expanded marriage rights in Belgium. Same-sex marriage is legal in Belgium, provided that at least one of the future spouses is a Belgian national or has been a resident of Belgium for more than three months. This reflects a broader trend towards greater inclusivity and equality in Belgian family law.
Where Can You Get Married in Belgium?
Marriages in Belgium are typically conducted by the civil registrar of the municipality where one of the future spouses is registered in the population, aliens, or waiting register. However, there are exceptions to this rule. If neither spouse is registered in these registers, or if their usual place of residence does not match their registration, the civil registrar of the municipality where one of the spouses resides can perform the marriage.
For Belgian citizens residing abroad, or for Belgians not registered in a Belgian municipality, the marriage can be performed by the civil registrar of the municipality of their last registration, the municipality where a relative up to the second degree is registered, or their place of birth. If none of these locations are possible, the marriage can be performed by the civil registrar of the city of Brussels.
Trends in Age and Partner Dynamics
Beyond the increase in international marriages, Statbel data also reveals shifts in the age and dynamics of couples getting married. The median age at first marriage has been steadily increasing, rising from 30.28 years in 2019 to 31.65 years in 2024. Similarly, the median age for subsequent marriages has increased from 45.08 years in 2019 to 49.08 years in 2024.
The data also indicates that most marriages (94%) involve partners from the same or adjacent age groups. The median age difference between partners in first marriages has slightly decreased, from 2.36 years in 2019 to 2.18 years in 2024. The age difference in subsequent marriages remains relatively stable, around 4.83 years.
Impact and Future Outlook
The rise in marriages, particularly those involving international couples, has implications for various aspects of Belgian society. It contributes to the country’s cultural diversity, strengthens international ties, and impacts demographic trends. The increasing median age at marriage also reflects broader societal changes, such as increased educational attainment and career focus among young adults.
The Belgian government continues to adapt its policies and regulations to accommodate the evolving needs of its population. The recognition of foreign marriages and the legalization of same-sex marriage demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and the protection of family rights. As Belgium continues to attract international residents and foster a diverse society, it is likely that the trend of increasing marriages, including those between partners of different nationalities, will continue.
Looking ahead, the Belgian government is expected to focus on streamlining the process for recognizing foreign marriages and ensuring that all couples, regardless of their nationality or sexual orientation, have equal access to marriage rights. Further research is also needed to understand the long-term impact of these trends on Belgian society and to develop policies that support the integration and well-being of international families.
The next major data release from Statbel regarding marriage statistics is expected in the first quarter of 2027, providing a further update on these evolving trends. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences on this topic in the comments section below.