Portugal continues to be one of the most popular wedding destinations for couples from all over the world. With its stunning venues, beautiful landscapes, and wonderful weather, it’s no surprise that foreign couples choose Portugal as the place to marry. However, if you're a foreign couple planning your wedding in Portugal, there are legal requirements you’ll need to know to ensure that your marriage is legally recognized.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the legal requirements for getting married in Portugal — from the documents you’ll need to the steps you must follow. Whether you're planning a civil ceremony, a religious service, or a symbolic wedding, we’ve got you covered!
Why Portugal?
Portugal is one of the top wedding destinations for couples around the globe. With its breathtaking landscapes, charming palaces, and pristine beaches, it's no wonder that foreign couples are flocking to Portugal to say "I do." From the vineyards of the Douro Valley to the golden sands of the Algarve, there are endless options for your dream wedding location.
Couples are attracted not only by Portugal's natural beauty but also by its easy legal process for foreigners wishing to marry. Whether you're looking for a historic church wedding or a seaside celebration, Portugal has everything to offer for your big day.
Legal Requirements for Foreign Couples Getting Married in Portugal (2025)
The legal process of getting married in Portugal is relatively straightforward, but there are essential steps and documents that foreign couples must have in order. Below is a step-by-step guide to ensure your marriage is legally recognized in Portugal.
Documents You Will Need:
- Passports or National ID Cards (For both parties)
- Birth Certificates (Must be translated into Portuguese and legalized)
- Proof of Civil Status (This includes divorce or death certificates if applicable)
- Certificate of No Impediment (A document from your home country stating you are free to marry)
These documents must be translated into Portuguese by an official translator and legalized. It’s recommended to bring both the original documents and the certified translations. In addition, you may need to show proof of residency in Portugal.
Types of Weddings: Civil or Religious
You can choose between a civil ceremony (performed by a Portuguese civil registrar) or a religious ceremony (which must be conducted in a recognized church or religious institution).
For both types of ceremonies, the legal requirements are similar, but religious ceremonies may require additional paperwork, particularly for non-Catholic couples.
The Process: How to Get Married in Portugal (2025)
Step 1: Choose Your Wedding Venue
The first step is to choose the venue that best suits your vision for your wedding day. Portugal offers a wide range of stunning options, from historic palaces to charming vineyards, beach resorts, and rustic country estates. Be sure to inquire if the venue has experience hosting foreign weddings and if they can assist with legal paperwork.
Step 2: Submit Your Documents
Once you have selected your venue, you will need to submit all the required documents to the Portuguese Civil Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Civil). Ensure that all documents are translated into Portuguese and properly legalized before submission.
Step 3: Set a Wedding Date
Once your documents are approved, you can set your wedding date. The approval process typically takes two to three weeks, so make sure to plan accordingly. You will also need to arrange for an officiant for a civil ceremony or a priest for a religious wedding.
Step 4: Attend the Ceremony
On your wedding day, you and your partner must be present at the ceremony along with two witnesses who are over the age of 18. After the ceremony, the officiant will submit the marriage documents, and you will receive your official marriage certificate.
Tips for Foreign Couples Getting Married in Portugal (2025)
- Start Early: The legal process can take time, especially when dealing with international documentation. Start planning ahead to avoid any last-minute stress.
- Hire a Wedding Planner: If you’re unsure about the legal requirements or need help with the paperwork, consider hiring a local wedding planner. They can guide you through the process and ensure everything is in order.
- Be Prepared for Additional Costs: There may be extra costs for legalizing documents, translations, and hiring an officiant for your ceremony. Make sure to budget accordingly.
- Consider Wedding Insurance: Wedding insurance can be a good idea when planning a destination wedding. It can cover unexpected circumstances like travel delays or issues with the venue.
Getting Married in Portugal: Ready to Plan Your Dream Wedding?
If you are ready to marry in Portugal and need a photographer to capture every unforgettable moment of your special day, I would be honored to help. As a wedding photographer based in Portugal, I specialize in documenting love stories at some of the country’s most beautiful venues.