Summary
- This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about how to register marriage in Portugal, from the required documents to the steps involved in the process.
- This can be the office in the district where one of the partners resides or the office in the district where the marriage ceremony will take place.
- While the civil registration of a marriage is a legal requirement, you can also choose to have a religious or symbolic ceremony to celebrate your union.
Getting married in Portugal is a beautiful and memorable experience, but it also involves legal procedures that need to be followed to ensure the validity of the marriage. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about how to register marriage in Portugal, from the required documents to the steps involved in the process.
The Legal Framework for Marriage in Portugal
Marriage in Portugal is governed by the Civil Code, which sets out the requirements and procedures for a valid marriage. According to the law, marriage is a civil contract between two people of opposite or same sex who are legally capable of entering into such a union.
Required Documents for Marriage Registration
Before you can register your marriage in Portugal, you will need to gather the following documents:
- Birth certificates of both partners
- Passports or national identity cards of both partners
- Proof of residency in Portugal (e.g., utility bills, rental agreement)
- Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (issued by the competent authorities in your home country)
- Marriage license (obtained from the local civil registry office)
- Two witnesses who are over 18 years old and have valid identification documents
Steps Involved in Marriage Registration
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can proceed with the following steps to register your marriage in Portugal:
1. Choose a Civil Registry Office: Select the civil registry office where you wish to register your marriage. This can be the office in the district where one of the partners resides or the office in the district where the marriage ceremony will take place.
2. Book an Appointment: Contact the chosen civil registry office to book an appointment for the marriage registration. You can do this in person, by phone, or online.
3. Submit the Required Documents: On the day of your appointment, bring all the required documents to the civil registry office. The officials will review the documents and verify their authenticity.
4. Pay the Registration Fee: You will need to pay a registration fee at the civil registry office. The amount of the fee varies depending on the municipality.
5. Sign the Marriage Register: In the presence of two witnesses, you and your partner will sign the marriage register. This act formalizes your marriage and makes it legally binding.
6. Receive the Marriage Certificate: After signing the marriage register, you will receive a marriage certificate. This document is proof of your marriage and is required for various legal purposes.
Additional Information
- Marriage Ceremonies: While the civil registration of a marriage is a legal requirement, you can also choose to have a religious or symbolic ceremony to celebrate your union. However, these ceremonies do not have any legal effect and do not replace the civil registration.
- Same-Sex Marriage: Same-sex marriage is legal in Portugal since 2010. The registration process for same-sex couples is the same as for heterosexual couples.
- Validity of Marriage: A marriage registered in Portugal is recognized as valid in all other countries that have diplomatic relations with Portugal. However, some countries may require additional documentation or procedures to recognize the marriage.
Marriage Registration in Portugal: A Rewarding Experience
Registering your marriage in Portugal is a significant step that symbolizes your commitment to each other and your future together. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your marriage is legally recognized and celebrated in accordance with Portuguese law.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. What is the minimum age for marriage in Portugal?
- The minimum age for marriage in Portugal is 18 years old. However, minors between the ages of 16 and 18 can marry with parental consent.
2. Can I get married in Portugal if I am not a Portuguese citizen?
- Yes, you can get married in Portugal even if you are not a Portuguese citizen. However, you will need to provide proof of your legal residency in Portugal.
3. How long does it take to register a marriage in Portugal?
- The processing time for marriage registration in Portugal varies depending on the workload of the civil registry office. In general, it takes around 10 to 15 business days for the marriage to be registered.
4. Can I change my name after marriage in Portugal?
- Yes, you can change your name after marriage in Portugal. You can either adopt your spouse’s surname, hyphenate your surnames, or keep your own surname.
5. What are the grounds for divorce in Portugal?
- The grounds for divorce in Portugal include adultery, abandonment, physical or psychological abuse, and mutual consent.