Free Viral Weddings at the KUA: How Much Does a Wedding Party Cost in Indonesia?

Lately, social media has been buzzing with stories of couples getting married at the Religious Affairs Office (KUA). Marriages at the KUA are considered attractive because the process is simple and free. Unlike weddings outside the KUA, where prospective couples usually have to prepare a substantial amount of money for the reception.

According to iPrice data, the average middle-class Indonesian wedding can cost up to Rp 191 million, assuming the wedding is held in a venue and has 250 guests.

Wedding reception costs are usually highest for venue rental and catering. Other expensive items include wedding decorations, wedding attire, photography services, wedding rings, and others, as shown in the graph.

The prices shown in the graph above were obtained by iPrice from an average price search of products on Bridestory, one of Indonesia's marketplaces for wedding services and supplies.

On the other hand, if getting married at the KUA, prospective couples don't have to prepare for a reception and all the associated paraphernalia mentioned above.

Couples can also perform the marriage ceremony at the KUA in simple clothes, without having to wear specific gowns or traditional attire.

Based on information on the official website of the Ministry of Religion's Marriage Management Information System (Simkah), prospective couples who wish to marry at the KUA only need to prepare documents such as an identity card (KTP), family card (KK), referral letter, health certificate, and so on.

After the administrative documents are complete, prospective couples can perform the marriage ceremony at the KUA with the following procedure:

* Obtaining a marriage referral letter from the RT/RW to be taken to the sub-district office;
* Obtaining a marriage referral letter from the sub-district office to be taken to the KUA;
* If the marriage is performed less than 10 days from the registration date, the prospective couple must request a dispensation from the sub-district;
* If performed outside the bride's domicile, a referral letter for marriage recommendation must be obtained from the local sub-district KUA to be taken to the KUA where the marriage ceremony will be held;
* Registering at the KUA where the marriage ceremony will be held free of charge, or paying Rp 600,000 if the marriage ceremony is held outside the KUA/KUA working hours;
* Checking the marriage data of the prospective couple and the marriage wali (guardian) at the KUA where the marriage ceremony will be held;
* Performing the marriage ceremony and receiving the marriage certificate.

Free marriage services at the KUA are available on the following days and hours:

* Monday-Thursday: 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM
* Friday: 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM