Certificate Holder Size Guide: HK Certificate vs A4
Actual certificate size
Hong Kong marriage certificates use A4 at 297 x 210 mm. That size is what fixes the interior format: a certificate on any other sheet will not go in, so every design we make is A4 and only A4.
As measured, certificates issued by the marriage registry come to about 209mm x 298mm — very close to the A4 standard of 210mm x 297mm, but not exactly the same. One more note: Cap. 181, the Marriage Ordinance, does not mandate a certificate size. “A4” is practice, not law.
Why the fit has to be just right
A holder that is too large lets the certificate slide and crease inside; one that is too small forces the certificate to fold, which can damage it. Our interior is slightly larger than standard A4, fitting a certificate with a presentation folder. A folder is thicker than the certificate itself, and that extra clearance is there so the foldered version still lies flat inside — no folding, no separate sleeve. For how to display and store the certificate afterwards, see display and storage.
How common holders compare
Many holders on the market are designed for mainland China or Taiwan and may not fit a Hong Kong certificate. The table below summarises common options:
| Brand | Holder size | Fits a HK certificate |
|---|---|---|
| MyO! certificate holder | 30.7cm x 22.6cm (outer shell) | Designed for HK certificates |
| Standard A4 holder | 210mm x 297mm (interior) | Close, but may run slightly small |
| Boxberries | A4 Size | Fits |
| BE ONE LETTER | A4 | Fits |
| Pinkoi designer picks | Varies by design | Check before ordering |
The twelve combinations
There are 2 colours and 6 designs, making 12 combinations. The colours are beige and blue. The material follows the colour: beige is linen, blue is frosted pearl. The two feel different but measure identically, so every combination takes the same A4 certificate. For texture and care differences, see linen vs frosted pearl materials.
Stamping fields and typefaces
Two fields on the front cover accept the couple’s names and the wedding date. Two fields means the content is fixed: names plus a date, with no room to add extra lines. The designer pairs a calligraphic typeface for Chinese with a serif typeface for English, centred on the cover. Plan ahead on whether the names sit side by side and which date format you want.
Lead time and price
Custom orders take about 7-14 business days depending on order volume, and production starts once the design proof is confirmed. If the wedding or registration date is already set, order with enough margin for the stamping time plus transit. Each holder is HK$388, including the printing of the couple names and wedding date.
Before you order
If your certificate is not A4, or already has a thick folder on it, measure it once before ordering — it is the quickest step. For day-to-day care after your holder arrives, see holder care instructions. For every design and choice in one place, start with the complete guide to certificate holders.