Planning a European wedding or looking to legally tie the knot abroad? This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting married in Europe as a foreigner — from legal requirements and costs to the most romantic destinations and practical tips.
Why Get Married in Europe as a Foreigner?
Europe has long been one of the world’s most sought-after wedding destinations. From the sun-drenched coastlines of Greece and Italy to the fairy-tale castles of Scotland and the charming vineyards of France, Europe offers an unmatched backdrop for one of life’s most important milestones.
But beyond the romance and scenery, thousands of couples — both same-sex and heterosexual — choose Europe for legal marriages each year. Whether you’re an American, Canadian, Australian, or from anywhere else in the world, getting legally married in Europe is entirely possible. It just requires careful planning, the right paperwork, and a solid understanding of each country’s specific requirements.
In 2025, the process has become more streamlined in many countries, though it still varies significantly from one nation to another. This guide covers everything you need to know, including costs, timelines, documentation, and the best countries for foreigners to get married in.
Understanding the Legal Framework: EU vs. Non-EU Countries
Before diving into specific countries, it’s important to understand that Europe is not a single legal jurisdiction. Each country — whether EU member or not — has its own marriage laws, residency requirements, and documentation standards.
EU Member States
Within the European Union, marriage laws are governed at the national level. However, marriages legally performed in one EU country are generally recognized across all EU member states. This is a significant advantage for couples who plan to live or travel within Europe after their wedding.
Non-EU European Countries
Countries like Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and the UK (post-Brexit) also have their own marriage laws. A marriage performed in these countries is still widely recognized internationally, but you’ll need to verify recognition in your home country.
Key Principle: Always Verify Recognition at Home
Before planning your European wedding, confirm with your home country’s embassy or civil registry that a marriage performed in your chosen European country will be legally recognized back home. In most cases, it will be — but the process of registering the marriage at home may involve additional steps and fees ranging from $50 to $300 depending on your country.
General Requirements for Foreigners Getting Married in Europe
While requirements vary by country, most European nations require the following from foreign nationals:
1. Valid Passports
Both partners must hold valid passports. Some countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the wedding date.
2. Birth Certificates
Apostille-certified birth certificates are required in most European countries. Getting an apostille in the US typically costs $20 to $50 per document, while in the UK it costs around £30 to £50 (approximately $38 to $63).
3. Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) or Certificate of Freedom to Marry
This document — issued by your home country — confirms that you are legally free to marry. In the US, this is often obtained through your state’s vital records office or a notary, costing between $30 and $100. UK citizens can obtain a CNI from a local register office for approximately £35 ($44).
4. Proof of Residency or Temporary Residency
Some countries require you to establish temporary residency before marrying. This can range from a few days to several weeks of physical presence in the country.
5. Divorce Decree or Death Certificate (if applicable)
If either partner has been previously married, a certified divorce decree or death certificate of a former spouse is required. Apostille certification of these documents typically costs $20 to $75.
6. Translated Documents
All documents must usually be translated into the local language by a certified translator. Translation costs in Europe typically range from $50 to $150 per document, depending on the language and complexity.
Cost Breakdown: How Much Does It Cost to Get Married in Europe?
One of the most common questions couples ask is: How much does it actually cost? Here’s a realistic breakdown:
Administrative and Legal Fees
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Marriage license/registration fee | $50 – $400 |
| Apostille certifications (per document) | $20 – $75 |
| Document translations (per document) | $50 – $150 |
| Certificate of No Impediment | $30 – $100 |
| Legal/notary fees | $100 – $500 |
| Embassy or consulate fees | $50 – $200 |
Wedding Venue and Ceremony Costs
| Country | Average Venue Cost | Average Total Wedding Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Italy | $3,000 – $15,000 | $20,000 – $80,000 |
| France | $4,000 – $20,000 | $25,000 – $100,000 |
| Greece | $2,000 – $10,000 | $15,000 – $60,000 |
| Portugal | $1,500 – $8,000 | $12,000 – $50,000 |
| Czech Republic | $1,000 – $5,000 | $10,000 – $35,000 |
| Croatia | $1,500 – $7,000 | $12,000 – $45,000 |
| Scotland | $2,500 – $12,000 | $18,000 – $70,000 |
Travel and Accommodation
- Flights (per person, round trip from the US): $600 – $2,500
- Hotel accommodation (per night): $80 – $500+
- Honeymoon extension (1 week): $2,000 – $10,000+
Total Estimated Budget for a Legal Wedding in Europe
For a modest but beautiful legal wedding in Europe, budget at least $5,000 to $15,000 for the full experience including travel. A mid-range wedding with a proper ceremony, venue, and small guest list typically runs $20,000 to $50,000, while luxury weddings can easily exceed $100,000.
Best European Countries for Foreigners to Get Married In
Italy 🇮🇹
Italy is arguably the most popular European wedding destination for foreigners, and for good reason. With venues ranging from Tuscan villas to Amalfi Coast cliffs, the country offers unparalleled beauty.
Legal Requirements:
- Both partners must provide a Nulla Osta (Certificate of No Impediment) from their home country’s embassy in Italy
- Documents must be translated into Italian and apostilled
- A minimum of 3 to 4 months of advance planning is recommended
- Civil ceremonies are performed at the local Comune (town hall)
Costs:
- Civil ceremony fee: $200 – $600
- Nulla Osta from US Embassy in Italy: approximately $50
- Total legal paperwork costs: $300 – $1,500
Best Regions: Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, Sicily, Venice
Pro Tip: Hire a local wedding planner in Italy who specializes in foreign weddings. Their fees typically range from $1,500 to $5,000 but they save you enormous amounts of time and stress navigating Italian bureaucracy.
France 🇫🇷
France requires at least one partner to be a resident of the commune where the marriage takes place for a minimum of 40 days before the wedding. This residency requirement makes France slightly more complex for tourists.
Legal Requirements:
- 40-day residency requirement in the commune
- Publication of banns (public notice of intended marriage) at least 10 days before the ceremony
- All documents must be translated into French by a certified translator
- Civil ceremony is mandatory; religious ceremonies are optional additions
Costs:
- Civil ceremony at the Mairie (town hall): Free to $300
- Residency establishment costs (accommodation for 40+ days): $2,000 – $8,000
- Total legal paperwork: $400 – $2,000
Best Regions: Paris, Provence, Loire Valley, Bordeaux, Côte d’Azur
Note: Many couples opt for a symbolic ceremony in France and handle the legal paperwork in their home country to avoid the residency requirement.
Greece 🇬🇷
Greece is one of the most foreigner-friendly countries for weddings in Europe. The process is relatively straightforward, and the country’s stunning islands make it a dream destination.
Legal Requirements:
- Certificate of No Impediment from your home country
- Both partners must appear in person at the local municipality
- Documents must be translated into Greek
- A local Greek lawyer or wedding coordinator is highly recommended
Costs:
- Civil ceremony fee: $150 – $400
- Legal assistance: $500 – $1,500
- Total paperwork costs: $500 – $2,000
Best Islands/Regions: Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, Corfu
Average Wedding Budget in Greece: $15,000 – $60,000 depending on guest count and venue
Portugal 🇵🇹
Portugal has become increasingly popular for destination weddings, especially among British, American, and Brazilian couples. The country offers a warm climate, stunning scenery, and relatively affordable costs compared to France or Italy.
Legal Requirements:
- Both partners must be present in Portugal for at least 3 days before the ceremony
- Certificate of No Impediment required
- Documents must be apostilled and translated into Portuguese
- Civil ceremony at the local Conservatória do Registo Civil
Costs:
- Civil ceremony fee: $100 – $300
- Total legal paperwork: $300 – $1,200
- Average venue cost: $1,500 – $8,000
Best Regions: Algarve, Lisbon, Douro Valley, Sintra, Madeira
Denmark 🇩🇰
Denmark is one of the easiest and most popular countries in Europe for foreigners to get married — particularly for couples who want a quick, legal, and affordable ceremony without extensive residency requirements.
Why Denmark?
Denmark has long been known as the “Las Vegas of Europe” for weddings. The country has minimal residency requirements and a streamlined process for foreign nationals.
Legal Requirements:
- Both partners must be legally free to marry
- Valid passports required
- Proof of civil status (single, divorced, or widowed)
- No residency requirement for EU citizens; non-EU citizens may need to show proof of legal stay
Costs:
- Marriage registration fee: approximately $150 – $300
- Total legal paperwork: $200 – $800
- Simple civil ceremony package (including venue): $500 – $2,000
Best Location: Copenhagen is the most popular city, with many wedding packages available starting at $800 to $3,000for a complete ceremony experience.
Pro Tip: Denmark is especially popular for same-sex couples, as it was one of the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex marriage (1989) and has a very inclusive legal framework.
Scotland 🇬🇧
Scotland offers one of the most unique and romantic wedding experiences in Europe, with its dramatic highland landscapes, ancient castles, and the famous Gretna Green — historically known as a destination for eloping couples.
Legal Requirements:
- Submit a Marriage Notice to the local registrar at least 29 days before the wedding
- Both partners must provide valid ID and birth certificates
- Proof of marital status required
- Scotland allows both civil and religious ceremonies, as well as humanist ceremonies (which are legally recognized — a rarity in Europe)
Costs:
- Marriage notice fee: £30 (approximately $38)
- Civil ceremony fee: £55 – £200 (approximately $70 – $250)
- Castle venue hire: $2,500 – $15,000+
Best Locations: Edinburgh, Scottish Highlands, Gretna Green, Isle of Skye, Loch Lomond
Czech Republic 🇨🇿
Prague and the Czech Republic offer a stunning, affordable alternative to Western European wedding destinations. The country’s Gothic architecture, baroque palaces, and charming old towns create a magical setting.
Legal Requirements:
- Both partners must appear at the local registry office
- Certificate of No Impediment required
- Documents must be apostilled and translated into Czech
- Minimum 3-week advance notice required
Costs:
- Civil ceremony fee: $100 – $250
- Total legal paperwork: $300 – $1,000
- Average total wedding budget: $10,000 – $35,000
Croatia 🇭🇷
Croatia has emerged as one of Europe’s hottest wedding destinations, with its stunning Adriatic coastline, medieval walled cities, and crystal-clear waters.
Legal Requirements:
- Both partners must be present in Croatia for at least 3 days before the ceremony
- Certificate of No Impediment required
- Documents must be apostilled and translated into Croatian
- Civil ceremony at the local Matičar (registrar)
Costs:
- Civil ceremony fee: $100 – $300
- Total legal paperwork: $300 – $1,200
- Average venue cost: $1,500 – $7,000
Best Locations: Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, Istria, Korčula
Step-by-Step Process: How to Get Married in Europe as a Foreigner
Step 1: Choose Your Country and Venue (12+ Months Before)
Start by deciding which European country you want to get married in. Consider:
- Legal requirements and complexity
- Budget (total costs ranging from $5,000 to $100,000+)
- Guest travel logistics
- Your dream aesthetic (beach, castle, vineyard, city)
Step 2: Research Legal Requirements (10–12 Months Before)
Contact the embassy or consulate of your chosen country in your home nation. Request a complete list of required documents for foreign nationals wishing to marry. Budget approximately $500 to $2,000 for document preparation.
Step 3: Gather and Apostille Your Documents (8–10 Months Before)
Collect all required documents:
- Birth certificates (apostille cost: $20 – $50 each)
- Passport copies
- Certificate of No Impediment ($30 – $100)
- Divorce decrees or death certificates if applicable ($20 – $75 each)
Step 4: Get Documents Translated (6–8 Months Before)
Hire a certified translator to translate all documents into the local language. Budget $50 – $150 per document. For a typical couple, total translation costs run $200 – $600.
Step 5: Hire a Local Wedding Planner or Legal Coordinator (6+ Months Before)
A local wedding planner who specializes in foreign weddings is invaluable. Their fees typically range from $1,500 to $5,000 but they handle all local bureaucracy, vendor coordination, and legal filings on your behalf.
Step 6: Book Your Venue and Vendors (6–12 Months Before)
Popular venues in peak season (June–September) book up 12–18 months in advance. Expect to pay a deposit of 20% to 50% of the total venue cost at booking.
Step 7: Submit Marriage Notice/Application (As Required by Country)
Most countries require formal notice of your intention to marry anywhere from 10 days to 3 months in advance. Your wedding planner or local coordinator can handle this for a fee of $100 – $500.
Step 8: Attend the Civil Ceremony
On your wedding day, the civil ceremony is typically brief (15–30 minutes) and legally binding. You’ll sign the marriage register along with two witnesses.
Step 9: Obtain Your Marriage Certificate
After the ceremony, you’ll receive an official marriage certificate. Request multiple certified copies — you’ll need them for various purposes back home. Each certified copy typically costs $10 – $50.
Step 10: Register Your Marriage at Home
Upon returning home, register your European marriage with your country’s civil registry or vital records office. Fees vary:
- United States: $50 – $200 depending on the state
- United Kingdom: £35 – £75 ($44 – $95)
- Canada: $50 – $150 CAD ($37 – $112 USD)
- Australia: $50 – $100 AUD ($33 – $66 USD)
Same-Sex Marriage in Europe: What You Need to Know
Europe is one of the most progressive regions in the world for LGBTQ+ rights, and many European countries fully recognize same-sex marriage.
Countries Where Same-Sex Marriage Is Legal (as of 2025):
- Netherlands (first country in the world, 2001)
- Belgium (2003)
- Spain (2005)
- Norway (2009)
- Sweden (2009)
- Portugal (2010)
- Iceland (2010)
- Denmark (2012)
- France (2013)
- United Kingdom (2014)
- Luxembourg (2015)
- Ireland (2015)
- Finland (2017)
- Malta (2017)
- Germany (2017)
- Austria (2019)
- Switzerland (2021)
- Slovenia (2022)
- Andorra (2023)
- Greece (2024)
- Czech Republic (2024)
Important Note: Even in countries where same-sex marriage is not yet legal, civil partnerships or registered partnerships may be available and offer similar legal protections.
Religious vs. Civil Ceremonies in Europe
Civil Ceremonies
In most European countries, only civil ceremonies performed by a government official are legally binding. Religious ceremonies are optional additions that hold spiritual but not always legal significance.
Cost of civil ceremonies: Typically $100 – $600 depending on the country and municipality.
Religious Ceremonies
Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and other religious ceremonies are available across Europe. In some countries (like England, Scotland, and Ireland), religious ceremonies performed by authorized officiants are legally binding.
Cost of religious ceremonies: $500 – $5,000+ depending on the church, officiant, and country.
Humanist Ceremonies
Scotland is particularly notable for legally recognizing humanist ceremonies — a secular but meaningful alternative to religious ceremonies. Humanist celebrant fees in Scotland typically range from $500 to $1,500.
Practical Tips for a Smooth European Wedding
Hire a Bilingual Wedding Planner
Language barriers can create significant complications. A bilingual planner who speaks both English and the local language is worth every penny of their $1,500 – $5,000 fee.
Start Early
The entire process — from document gathering to the wedding day — typically takes 6 to 12 months. Starting early reduces stress and gives you more venue options.
Budget for Hidden Costs
Many couples underestimate costs. Set aside an additional 10% to 20% of your total budget as a contingency fund. On a $30,000 wedding, that’s $3,000 – $6,000 in reserve.
Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers wedding-related cancellations. Policies typically cost $200 – $600and can save you thousands if unexpected events occur.
Understand Visa Requirements
If you’re staying in Europe for an extended period to meet residency requirements, ensure your visa allows it. Schengen Area visas typically allow stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for most non-EU nationals.
Consider a Destination Wedding Coordinator vs. a Local Planner
- Destination wedding coordinator (based in your home country): Fees of $2,000 – $8,000 — handles everything remotely
- Local European wedding planner: Fees of $1,500 – $5,000 — has on-the-ground expertise
Visa and Immigration Considerations
Getting married in Europe doesn’t automatically grant you the right to live there. However, marriage to an EU citizen can open pathways to residency.
EU Spouse Visa
If you marry an EU citizen, you may be eligible for a family reunification visa or EU spouse visa, which can allow you to live and work in the EU. Processing times vary from 1 to 6 months, and application fees range from $100 to $500depending on the country.
Long-Stay Visas for Wedding Planning
If you need to stay in Europe for more than 90 days to meet residency requirements, you may need a long-stay visa (Type D visa). Fees typically range from $100 to $300.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Is a marriage performed in Europe legally valid in the United States?
Yes, in most cases, a marriage legally performed in a European country is recognized in the United States. The US generally recognizes foreign marriages as valid if they were legal in the country where they took place. However, you will need to register the marriage with your state’s vital records office and may need to provide a certified copy of your European marriage certificate along with a certified translation. The registration process typically costs $50 to $200depending on your state. It’s always advisable to consult with a family law attorney in your state to confirm recognition, especially in cases involving same-sex marriages or marriages from countries with unusual legal frameworks.
FAQ 2: How much does it cost in total to get legally married in Europe as a foreigner?
The total cost varies widely depending on the country, the scale of your wedding, and your home country. For a simple legal civil ceremony with minimal guests, you can expect to spend a minimum of $3,000 to $8,000 including travel, accommodation, document preparation (approximately $500 to $2,000), and ceremony fees ($100 to $600). A mid-range destination wedding with 20 to 50 guests typically costs $20,000 to $50,000, while a luxury wedding can easily exceed $100,000. The most affordable European countries for foreign weddings are Denmark, Czech Republic, Portugal, and Croatia, where total legal costs (excluding travel and venue) can be kept under $1,500.
FAQ 3: Which European country is easiest for foreigners to get married in?
Denmark is widely considered the easiest European country for foreigners to get married in. It has minimal residency requirements, a streamlined bureaucratic process, and is very welcoming to international couples including same-sex couples. A complete legal wedding package in Copenhagen can cost as little as $800 to $3,000. Portugal and Greece are also considered relatively foreigner-friendly, with straightforward processes and costs typically under $2,000 for legal paperwork. Italy and France, while stunning, have more complex requirements and are better suited for couples with more time and budget to navigate the process.
FAQ 4: Do I need to speak the local language to get married in Europe?
No, you do not need to speak the local language, but you will need certified translations of all your documents into the local language, which typically costs $50 to $150 per document. During the civil ceremony itself, a certified interpreter may be required in some countries, which can cost an additional $200 to $500. Hiring a local wedding planner or legal coordinator who is fluent in both English and the local language is strongly recommended. Their fees of $1,500 to $5,000are well worth the investment for navigating language barriers and local bureaucracy.
FAQ 5: Can same-sex couples legally marry in Europe as foreigners?
Yes, same-sex couples can legally marry in many European countries as foreigners. As of 2025, over 20 European countries have legalized same-sex marriage, including the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, France, Germany, Portugal, Ireland, the UK, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and most recently Greece and the Czech Republic. Denmark is particularly popular for same-sex couples due to its inclusive laws and simple process. The legal costs for same-sex couples are identical to those for heterosexual couples — typically $500 to $2,000 for paperwork and $100 to $600 for the civil ceremony fee. It’s important to note that while your marriage will be legally valid in the country where it’s performed, recognition in your home country depends on your home country’s laws regarding same-sex marriage.
Final Thoughts: Making Your European Wedding Dream a Reality
Getting married in Europe as a foreigner is an incredibly rewarding experience — but it requires careful planning, a realistic budget, and a thorough understanding of the legal requirements in your chosen country. Whether you’re dreaming of exchanging vows on a sun-drenched Greek island, in a Tuscan vineyard, or in a Scottish highland castle, the key is to start early, hire the right local professionals, and budget realistically.
To summarize the key financial considerations:
- Document preparation and apostilles: $500 – $2,000
- Certified translations: $200 – $600
- Civil ceremony fees: $100 – $600
- Local wedding planner: $1,500 – $5,000
- Venue hire: $1,000 – $20,000+
- Travel and accommodation: $1,500 – $10,000+
- Total minimum budget: $5,000 – $10,000 (simple ceremony)
- Total mid-range budget: $20,000 – $50,000
- Total luxury budget: $80,000 – $150,000+
With the right preparation and the right team by your side, your European wedding can be everything you’ve ever dreamed of — and a legally binding start to your life together that you’ll cherish forever.