Planning a wedding abroad sounds dreamy, but before you say “I do” on a golden Algarve cliff, you’ll need to make sure your marriage is legally recognized. Portugal is a popular destination wedding hotspot, and yes — foreigners can get legally married here.
But there are documents, translations, and deadlines you can’t ignore. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the legal requirements for getting married in Portugal.
Can Foreigners Get Married in Portugal?
The short answer: yes. Portugal allows non-residents and foreign citizens to marry legally, whether in a civil or Catholic ceremony. You don’t need to be a Portuguese citizen or permanent resident to tie the knot.
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What you do need is time for paperwork. Couples are advised to begin preparations at least 8–12 weeks before the wedding date, especially if you’re planning a destination wedding in Algarve.
If you’re just starting your research, check our guide on How to Plan a Destination Wedding in Portugal for a full overview of venues, timelines, and logistics.
Useful Resources & Contacts
- Portuguese Civil Registry: Justiça Gov.pt
- UK in Portugal Embassy: gov.uk/world/portugal
- US Embassy Lisbon: pt.usembassy.gov
Civil vs. Religious Weddings in Portugal
There are three main types of ceremonies for foreign couples:
- Civil Wedding – Legally binding, recognized internationally, and can be held at a registry office (Conservatória) or at a location approved by the registrar (such as a beach or hotel).
- Catholic Wedding – Also legally binding in Portugal, but requires additional documents from your home parish and approval from the portuguese Catholic Church priest.
- Symbolic Wedding / Elopement – A ceremony with no legal force, often chosen by couples who finalize paperwork in their home country and come to Algarve for a celebration without stress.
Legal Documents Required
Here’s a checklist of the standard documents needed to get legally married in Portugal as foreigners:
| Document | Who Issues It | Translation Needed? |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Passports / ID Cards | Home country | No |
| Birth Certificates | Home country | Yes, into Portuguese |
| Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) | Local registry in home country | Yes |
| Divorce / Death Certificate (if applicable) | Local registry | Yes |
| Apostille Authentication | Government office | Yes |
All non-Portuguese documents must be officially translated into Portuguese and apostilled according to the Hague Convention.
The Legal Process – Step by Step
- Contact the local Civil Registry Office (ConservatĂłria do Registo Civil).
- Submit your documents at least 6–8 weeks before the ceremony.
- Approval and scheduling of the ceremony date.
- Civil registrar officiates the wedding (can attend venues outside the registry).
- Marriage certificate issued by the Portuguese state.
Fees & Waiting Periods
- Civil ceremony fees: around €120–€200.
- Additional costs: translations, notary fees, apostille stamps.
- Timeframe: allow at least 6–10 weeks from submitting documents to your ceremony.
Recognition of Portuguese Marriage Abroad
A marriage performed in Portugal is legally valid across the EU, the UK, and the US. After your wedding, you may need to register your marriage with local authorities in your home country. For example, Polish citizens register at USC, while US couples may present the Portuguese marriage certificate to their state’s vital records office.
Common Challenges & How to Avoid Them
- Late submission of documents → registry won’t approve your date.
- Missing apostille → documents not accepted.
- Religious weddings → extra paperwork through church channels.
💡 Hiring a local wedding planner can help avoid delays and ensure translations are correct. If you’re still choosing your dream photographer, see our curated list: The Top 11 Algarve Wedding Photographers (2025 Edition).
Alternative: Symbolic Ceremony + Legal Marriage at Home
Many couples prefer to complete legal paperwork in their home country and then hold a symbolic ceremony in Algarve. Benefits include:
- Less bureaucracy.
- More freedom with venues (cliffs, beaches, vineyards).
- Stress-free planning.
The downside: it’s not legally binding in Portugal. But for couples prioritizing the emotional experience, it’s often the easiest route.
Useful Resources & Contacts
- Portuguese Civil Registry (Conservatória do Registo Civil) – official marriage authority.
- Your embassy or consulate in Portugal – for document authentication and translation guidance.
- Ever After Frames FAQ – answers to common questions about photography and weddings in Algarve.
Final Thoughts
Getting married in Portugal is absolutely possible for foreign couples — it just takes preparation. Once the paperwork is sorted, you’ll be free to focus on the magic: the Atlantic breeze, golden cliffs, and unforgettable photos.
More usefull informations: How to Plan a Destination Wedding in Portugal.
If you’d like your day documented with the same care as the legal process, reach out to us here or on Ever After Frames Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ever.after.frames/. Because beyond the paperwork, your story deserves to be remembered.
