How to legally get married in Portugal: a complete guide for international couples
Planning a destination wedding is an exciting journey—and if you’ve chosen Portugal, you’re already on the right path. With its golden coastline, charming villages, and year-round sunshine, it’s one of Europe’s most romantic wedding destinations.
If you're still exploring options, discover how we can help with our Algarve wedding planning services.
But one of the most common questions couples ask is:
“Can we legally get married in Portugal?”
Can Foreigners Get Married in Portugal?
Yes, foreigners can legally get married in Portugal. The country allows both civil and Catholic marriages, and the marriage is recognised internationally in most countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Ireland.
To get legally married in Portugal, you must:
Be at least 18 years old
Not already be married
Provide valid legal documents
Receive approval from the Portuguese Civil Registry
What Is a Civil Marriage in Portugal?
A civil marriage in Portugal is a legally binding ceremony conducted by a government registrar. It is the most common option for international couples and is recognised worldwide.
Civil vs Symbolic Ceremony: What’s the Difference?
Before starting the legal process, it’s important to decide what type of ceremony you want:
Civil (Legal) Ceremony
Legally binding in Portugal
Conducted by a registrar
Held at a registry office or approved venue
Symbolic Ceremony
Not legally binding
Offers complete flexibility (location, vows, timing)
Often combined with a legal marriage in your home country
Many couples choose a symbolic ceremony and combine it with a personalised experience through a elopement and micro wedding services in the Algarve.
What Do You Need to Get Married in Portugal? (Quick Answer)
To legally get married in Portugal as a foreigner, you typically need:
Valid passports
Full birth certificates
Certificate of No Impediment
Divorce or death certificates (if applicable)
Official translations into Portuguese
Apostille certification
The process usually takes 3 to 6 months and must be approved by the Portuguese Civil Registry.
Legal Requirements to Get Married in Portugal
To legally marry in Portugal, you must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be legally free to marry
Submit all required documentation
Obtain approval from the Civil Registry
If you're unsure which option is best, our team can guide you through every step as part of our full wedding planning service in the Algarve.
Documents Required
The required documents may vary depending on your nationality, but generally include:
Valid passports
Birth certificates
Certificate of No Impediment
Divorce decree (if applicable)
Death certificate (if widowed)
All documents must:
Be translated into Portuguese
Be officially certified (usually with an Apostille)
Managing paperwork from abroad can be complex, which is why many couples rely on local experts—learn more about our destination wedding planning services in Portugal.
How to Get Married in Portugal: Step-by-Step
Submit your marriage application to the Portuguese Civil Registry
Provide all required documents
Wait for approval (several weeks)
Hold your civil ceremony in Portugal
Receive your official marriage certificate
Choosing the right setting is just as important—explore the best wedding venues in the Algarve for your ceremony.
How Long Does It Take to Get Married in Portugal?
It typically takes 3 to 6 months to legally get married in Portugal. This includes time for gathering documents, translations, and official approval.
Not sure when to start? Our destination wedding planning service can help you stay organised.
Requirements by Nationality
United States
Certificate of No Impediment via affidavit
Documents must be notarised and apostilled
Canada
Similar to the US
Requirements vary by province
United Kingdom
Certificate of No Impediment issued locally
Must be legalised and translated
Ireland
Marriage registration form required
Advance notice needed
Working with a planner simplifies this significantly.
Costs of Getting Married in Portugal
Typical costs include:
Civil registry fees
Translation and certification
Legal representation
Venue licensing fees
For a detailed breakdown, please feel free to contact us.
Should You Get Legally Married in Portugal or at Home?
Choose a Legal Wedding in Portugal if:
You want a fully official experience abroad
You’re comfortable with paperwork
Choose a Symbolic Ceremony if:
You want flexibility and simplicity
You prefer to complete legalities at home
Why Work with us as your Wedding Planner?
Planning a legal wedding abroad involves navigating bureaucracy, deadlines, and language barriers.
As local planner, Algarve Dream Weddings can:
Handle legal paperwork
Liaise with authorities
Ensure compliance
Coordinate your entire wedding
See how we support international couples with our Algarve destination wedding planning services.
Final Thoughts
Getting legally married in Portugal is absolutely possible—and incredibly rewarding—but it requires planning and attention to detail.
Whether you choose a legal or symbolic ceremony, the Algarve offers one of the most beautiful wedding settings in Europe.
Planning Your Wedding in Portugal?
You can explore real celebrations in our Algarve wedding gallery for inspiration.
If you're ready to start planning your dream wedding, we’d love to help.
Get in touch to begin your Algarve destination wedding journey.
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