Dreamtime

What are the requirements to get married in Croatia?

Croatia offers stunning landscapes and historical charm, making it a popular destination for weddings. If you’re a foreigner looking to get married in Croatia, here are the essential requirements for both civil and church weddings.

Civil Marriage Requirements

  1. Documents Needed

    • Valid Passports: Both parties must present valid passports.

    • Birth Certificates: Original or certified copies, issued within the last six months.

    • Certificate of No Impediment: Proof that there is no legal obstacle to your marriage.

    • Certificate of Residency: Some municipalities may require proof of residency status.

    • Divorce/Death Certificates: If applicable, proof of termination of previous marriages.

    • Parent’s Consent: Required if either party is under the age of 18.

  2. Translation and Apostille

    • All foreign documents must be translated into Croatian by a certified translator.

    • Documents need to have an Apostille stamp, authenticating their validity for international use.

  3. Application Process

    • Submit all required documents to the local registrar’s office (Matica).

    • Complete the application form provided by the registrar.

    • Schedule an appointment for the civil ceremony, usually a month in advance.

  4. Fees

    • Civil marriage fees vary by location but generally include administrative and ceremony costs.

    • Additional fees may apply for translations and Apostille stamps.

Church Marriage Requirements

  1. Religious Documentation

    • Baptismal Certificates: Must be issued within the last six months.

    • Confirmation Certificates: Proof of confirmation in the Catholic Church.

    • Letter of Freedom: A letter from your parish priest stating that you are free to marry.

  2. Marriage Preparation

    • Attend pre-marriage courses or counseling sessions as required by the Church.

    • Obtain a letter of permission if one partner is not Catholic or if it’s an interfaith marriage.

  3. Civil Marriage

    • Before the church ceremony, you must have a civil marriage ceremony.

    • The civil marriage certificate must be presented to the church officiant.

  4. Application Process

    • Submit all required documents to the parish where the ceremony will take place.

    • Schedule meetings with the parish priest to discuss the ceremony details and complete necessary paperwork.

  5. Fees

    • Church wedding fees typically cover administrative costs and contributions to the parish.

    • Additional donations may be customary, depending on the church.

Practical Tips

  1. Plan Ahead

    • Start gathering your documents at least six months in advance to ensure they are valid and have the necessary translations and stamps.

  2. Consult Local Authorities

    • Each municipality might have slightly different requirements, so it’s advisable to contact the local registrar or parish directly.

  3. Professional Assistance

    • Consider hiring a local wedding planner who can navigate the legalities and logistics, ensuring a smooth process.

Getting married in Croatia involves a detailed process, but the result is a beautiful and memorable wedding in a stunning location. By following the requirements and preparing in advance, you can ensure your wedding day goes off without a hitch. Whether you choose a civil ceremony or a church wedding, Croatia’s rich history and breathtaking scenery will make your special day truly unforgettable.