So, if you’re here we can assume that you’re thinking of getting married in Italy? Of course we’re a bit partial to this, but…great idea! We’re sure it’ll be a romantic, incredible experience, but as foreigners it’s important to make sure you meet all the legal requirements and follow the proper procedures. Of course this only applies if you want a legal ceremony instead a symbolic one (and we really like also this option!). Here’s some practical information to help you plan your Italian wedding:

1. Check if you’re eligible to get married in Italy:

• You must be at least 18 years old to get married in Italy.
• If you have been previously married, you must provide some proof of the ending of your previous marriage (e.g. divorce decree, death certificate).
• You must not be related to your intended spouse by blood or adoption.
• You must not already be married to someone else.

2. After that, the fun part! You should choose your wedding venue:

• Italy has many stunning locations where you can get married: Piedmont, Venice, Tuscany, or the Italian Riviera, the Lakes…the list goes on and on!
• Keep in mind that different local administrations around Italy may have different requirements for getting married, so it’s important to do your research and choose a location that meets your need. Maybe, start by finding a venue you like, then ask them if they can give you some information about it.

3. Obtain the necessary documents:

• Both you and your spouse-to-be will need to provide several documents in order to get married in Italy. These may include:
  • Passports
  • Birth certificates
  • Affidavits of eligibility to marry (these can be obtained from your local embassy or consulate)
  • If either of you have been previously married, you will need to provide proof of the termination of the previous marriage (e.g. divorce decree, death certificate)
  • Any other documents required by the specific location where you will be getting married (e.g. medical certificates, prenuptial agreements)

4. At this point, have your documents translated and legalized:

• You’ll need to have your documents translated into Italian by a certified translator.
• The translations must then be legalized by the Italian embassy or consulate in the country where the documents were issued.

5. Give notice of your intention to marry (and yes, you’ll find a paper on display at the local town hall announcing to the world your engagement, no kidding!):

• You must give notice of your intention to marry at least three months before your wedding date (check the terms with the specific town hall).
• This can be done at the town hall (comune) in the location where you will be getting married.
• You will need to present your documents and pay a fee at this time.

6. And finally…Have your civil ceremony:

• In Italy, all weddings must be preceded by a civil ceremony, which is performed by the mayor or a delegated official at the town hall.
• The civil ceremony must take place at least two weeks before the religious ceremony (if you are having one). In same cases you can sign the papers directly in the Church, but you need to check it if it’s allowed case by case.
• You and your spouse-to-be must both be present at the civil ceremony, as well as two witnesses who are at least 18 years old.
• You will need to present your documents and pay a fee at this time.

7. Have your religious ceremony (optional):

• If you wish to have a religious ceremony in addition to the civil ceremony, you must arrange this with the clergy of the denomination you belong to.
• Keep in mind that different denominations have different requirements for getting married, so it’s important to do your research and choose a ceremony that meets your needs.

8. Register your marriage:

• After your wedding, you must register your marriage at the town hall where the ceremony took place.
• You will need to present your marriage certificate, which will be issued to you after the civil ceremony.

Of course, this gives you a rough idea of the various steps to follow in order to get married in Italy: since laws and regulations have a tendency to change depending on the time and place, we strongly suggest to have a look at the Italian Ministry of Justice’s web page when you’re ready to start your journey to get married in Italy!

Anyway, we can assure you: it will be absolutely worth the paperwork!