Couples applying for a marriage licence do not have to visit their local council offices from Tuesday, but can apply online.

The application must be made at least two weeks and a maximum of one year before the wedding date. The same applies to registered partnerships.

Confirmation of the application will be sent as an email and, unlike the old system, is free of charge.

It does put an end to the old Dutch tradition whereby the couple first went to the council offices and then to the house of the bride’s parents, which was specially decorated for the occasion.

The couple were offered sweet tea and bitterkoekjes (almond macaroons), which symbolised the sweetness and bitterness of marriage.