Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Croatia
Planning a destination wedding in Croatia is not just about finding the perfect venue with stunning views—you'll also need to navigate the legalities. This guide breaks down the essential steps and requirements to ensure your "I do" in Croatia is legally binding.
Please note: Required documentation and the legal process may vary depending on your nationality.
Step 1: Choose Your Ceremony Type
In Croatia, you can have:
Civil Ceremonies: These are legally recognized and conducted by a registrar.
Religious Ceremonies: Require additional documentation and are legally binding only if performed by authorized religious representatives.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You and your partner will need to provide:
Original Birth Certificate (not older than 3 months) which includes the names of both parents, bearing the Apostille Stamp;
Certificate of No Impediment (not older than 3 months) original, verified with Apostille Stamp (this certificate shows that you are free to marry),
Certificate of Custom and Law /Certificate de Coutume/, (not older than 3 months), original, verified with Apostille Stamp
Valid passports;
Photocopies of the passports for two witnesses, listing their names, address and occupation;
If you are divorced, a Decree Absolute and previous marriage certificate.
All documentation must be originals or certified copies (with Apostille Stamp) and translated into Croatian by an official court interpreter. Documentation must be submitted to the local Register Office 30 days prior to your wedding takes place.
Hiring a wedding planner to handle the legal requirements for getting married in Croatia is a stress-free way to ensure everything is organized and submitted correctly. We will manage the process on your behalf, from document collection to timely submission. If you're not working with a wedding planner, you'll need to carefully coordinate the submission of all required paperwork to avoid delays or complications.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Contact the local registrar's office (Matični Ured) in the municipality where you plan to marry. Submit your documents at least 30 days before your wedding date. For religious ceremonies, coordinate with your chosen church and the registrar.
Step 4: Plan Your Timeline
Croatian law requires couples to file their marriage application at least 30-45 days in advance. Allow extra time for gathering and translating documents, especially if you're not already in Croatia.
Step 5: Day of the Wedding
Civil ceremonies typically take place in government-approved locations, but many registrars are flexible. With prior approval, you could marry at your villa, vineyard, or even a cliff overlooking the sea! A translator may be required if you or your guests don't speak Croatian.
Step 6: Post-Ceremony Formalities
After your wedding, you'll receive a Croatian marriage certificate. If needed, you can request an Apostille for international recognition.
Top Tips for a Stress-Free Experience
Hire a Wedding Planner: Navigating foreign legalities can be overwhelming. A wedding planner (like us!) ensures everything is handled seamlessly.
Check with Your Embassy: Verify your home country’s additional requirements for registering your Croatian marriage.
Get Started Early: Some paperwork can take weeks to process.
By following these steps, your dream wedding in Croatia can be as stress-free as the breathtaking backdrop. If you’d like expert help navigating the paperwork while you focus on the fun stuff, we’re here to make it happen!
