What documents do foreigners need to get married in Europe?

Pick a country and your profile to see required documents, timelines, known fees and official sources.

Important notice. Indicative information, last verified on 2026-04-30. Rules change and may vary depending on the local registry, nationality, residence status and prior marital status. Always check with the official authority before incurring fees or travelling.

Detailed country information (documents, procedures, notes) is provided in the original language used by the source authorities.

Wedding in Europe
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Publication required
Notice 10 days
Getting married in France as a foreigner

Summary of conditions and documents for a marriage celebrated in France.

Competent authority

Registrar of the Town Hall (Officier de l'état civil de la mairie)
Civil Registry Office of the Commune of Residence (Service de l'état civil de la commune du domicile)

EU / EEA citizens

No fundamental distinction; EU public documents may be easier to produce.

Documents to prepare

  • Valid identification (passport or national identity card)
  • Full copy of birth certificate less than 3 months old (6 months if issued abroad)
  • Certificate of custom (Certificat de coutume) specifying the applicable national law, issued by the foreign authority (consulate) — for foreign nationals
  • Certificate of legal capacity to marry (Certificat de capacité à mariage) / certificate of celibacy issued by the foreign authority, if applicable
  • Proof of domicile or residence in the commune (last 3 months)
  • List and information regarding witnesses (identity documents)
  • Divorce decree or death certificate of the previous spouse if applicable
  • Translation by a sworn translator and apostille/legalization depending on the country of issuance
  • If applicable, marriage contract (notary)

Timing and residence

  • Minimum residence: 30 days
  • Notice / filing: 10 days
  • Publication of banns: Required
  • Continuous residence of at least 1 month in the commune; publication of banns for a minimum of 10 days.

Official fees

0 EUR

Civil ceremony at the town hall is free; family record book (livret de famille) is free.

Procedure steps

  1. 1Choose a competent town hall
  2. 2Assemble the file
  3. 3Possible hearing
  4. 4Publication of banns (Publication des bans)
  5. 5Ceremony

Special requirements

Lasting connection to the commune
Publication of banns (Publication des bans)
Possible hearing

Last verified: 2026-05-26

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about civil marriage in Europe for foreigners.

Reminder. Indicative information, last verified on 2026-04-30. Rules change and may vary depending on the local registry, nationality, residence status and prior marital status. Always check with the official authority before incurring fees or travelling.