Cyprus Marriage Requirements for Foreigners
Are you planning to tie the knot in Cyprus? Whether it's because of the stunning scenery, warm weather, or easy accessibility, getting married in this Mediterranean paradise is a popular choice for couples worldwide. However, before you start planning your dream wedding, it's essential to understand the legal requirements for foreigners. Here's what you need to know:
Legal Age for Marriage in Cyprus
The legal age for marriage in Cyprus is 18 years old. However, if you are between 16 and 18 years old, you can still get married with the consent of your parents or legal guardians. Keep in mind that if you are under the age of 16, you cannot legally get married in Cyprus.
Marriage License in Cyprus
To get married in Cyprus, you will need to obtain a marriage license from the Municipality of the town where you plan to get married. Both you and your partner must be present when applying for the license. Here are the required documents:
Passport or national identity card
Birth certificate
Certificate of marital status (single or divorced)
Decree absolute (if applicable)
Death certificate (if applicable)
Parental consent (if under 18 years old)
After providing all the necessary documents, you will need to pay a fee for the marriage license, which varies from €128 to €282, depending on the Municipality. The marriage license is valid for three months from the date of issue.
Residency Requirements for Getting Married in Cyprus
One of the best things about getting married in Cyprus is that there are no residency requirements. It's an attractive destination for couples who want to get married quickly without the hassle of waiting for a long period of time. However, if you plan to stay in Cyprus after your wedding, you will need to obtain the appropriate visa or permit.
Civil or Religious Wedding Ceremony
In Cyprus, you can choose to have a civil or religious wedding ceremony. Civil ceremonies are conducted by the Municipality and are performed in the presence of two witnesses. Religious ceremonies are conducted by a priest or minister of your chosen religion and are recognized by the state.
If you choose to have a civil ceremony, you will need to have a translator present if neither you nor your partner speaks Greek. The Municipality will provide a list of approved translators that you can choose from.
If you choose to have a religious ceremony, you will need to obtain a marriage license from the Municipality and have it signed by the priest or minister who conducts the ceremony.
Wedding Venues in Cyprus
Cyprus offers a vast selection of wedding venues, from beautiful beaches to historic churches and elegant hotels. When choosing a venue, you need to consider the size of your wedding party, your budget, and your personal preferences. Here are some of the most popular wedding venues in Cyprus:
Aphrodite's Rock
Paphos Castle
Ayia Napa Monastery
Limassol Marina
Coral Beach Hotel
Documents Required for Getting Married in Cyprus
Aside from the documents needed for obtaining a marriage license, you will also need to provide the following documents for the ceremony:
Two witnesses over the age of 18
Passports or national identity cards of the witnesses
Divorce certificate (if applicable)
Death certificate (if applicable)
Affidavit stating that you are both free to marry
The affidavit can be obtained from the Embassy or Consulate of your home country in Cyprus.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have a better understanding of the Cyprus marriage requirements for foreigners, you can start planning your dream wedding in this beautiful Mediterranean paradise. Remember, the process can be stressful, but with the right preparation and research, you can avoid any pitfalls and ensure a smooth and enjoyable