The government has simplified the application process for the Marriage Grant, Social Solidarity Minister Michael Farrugia announced today.

Up till now, newly married couples had to register their marriage at the Public Registry and apply for the grant at the Social Security Department Offices.

With the new system, they will automatically receive a letter, informing them of the benefits they are eligible for by the Social Security Department, after registering at the Public Registry.

Couples will then be asked for a few details, including an IBAN number, their new address and the surnames the couple will choose. Dr Farrugia said the required information can be given through the e-Gov website or at the district offices of the Social Security Department.

The system is aimed at reducing bureaucracy and paperwork, and saving time.

The marriage grant amounts to €271.04 per person but it is about time that the number is rounded up to further simplify the process, Dr Farrugia said.

In 2012 there were 3,361 applications for marriage grants, which amounted to some €862,000. In 2013 2,961 applications were filed and the government dished out some €780,000 in grants.

Dr Farrugia explained that, in order to be eligible for the marriage grant, one must have paid at least 26 contributions prior to marrying. Marriage grants also apply for civil unions.

The Social Solidarity Minister said new simplified processes will be announced in the coming months, including a simplified process for applying for children's allowance.