So, you’ve decided to say Ja! in Germany? Maybe it’s the romance of Bavarian castles, the urban coolness of Berlin, or simply because German efficiency has won your heart. Whatever the reason, congratulations! But before you pop the champagne, let’s talk bureaucracy—because Germany takes marriage paperwork very, very seriously.
This guide will walk you through all the required documents, fees, and legal steps for a civil wedding in Germany. Plus, we’ll throw in some common mistakes to avoid, fun traditions, and a step-by-step timeline to keep your wedding journey as smooth as possible.
Can Foreigners Get Married in Germany?
Absolutely! But here’s what you need to know:
✅ You must be at least 18 years old (or 16 with parental consent).
✅ You cannot already be married (Germany is quite firm on this one).
✅ You must provide official documents proving your identity and marital status.
✅ Your marriage must be registered at a Standesamt (civil registry office)—church ceremonies alone are not legally binding.
Now, let’s dive into the fun (aka bureaucratic) part: the paperwork.
Required Documents for a Civil Marriage in Germany
| Document |
Requirement |
Notes |
| Passport or ID |
✅ Mandatory |
Must be valid |
| Birth Certificate |
✅ Mandatory |
Issued within the last 6 months & officially translated |
| Certificate of No Impediment |
✅ Mandatory |
Proves you’re legally free to marry |
| Registration Certificate |
✅ If you live in Germany |
Issued by local Bürgeramt |
| Divorce/Death Certificate |
✅ If applicable |
Translated & certified copy |
| Name Declaration |
✅ If changing surname |
Can be done during registration |
Breaking Down the Tricky Parts:
🛑 Certificate of No Impediment (Ehefähigkeitszeugnis)
This document proves you are legally free to marry. Some countries (like the USA and UK) don’t issue this, so instead, you’ll need a Sworn Affidavit (Eidesstattliche Versicherung) from your embassy in Germany.
📜 Birth Certificate
Not just any birth certificate—you need an officially translated version, issued within the last 6 months. (Yes, even if you were born decades ago, Germany wants fresh paperwork!).
📝 Divorce or Death Certificate (if applicable)
Previously married? You must provide proof of legal dissolution (divorce decree or spouse’s death certificate). This must be translated and notarized.
👀 Translation & Notarization
All foreign documents must be officially translated into German by a certified translator. Some documents also need an Apostille or legalization from your home country.
Marriage Registration Process in Germany
Step 1: Visit the Standesamt
You must apply in person at your local Standesamt (civil registry office). Find yours here.
Step 2: Submit Documents & Pay Fees
💰 Expect to pay between €50–€150, depending on your nationality and paperwork.
Step 3: Wait for Approval
Processing time varies, but 4–6 weeks is typical. Be patient—bureaucracy moves at its own pace.
Step 4: Set Your Wedding Date
Once approved, you can officially book your wedding date. Civil ceremonies usually take place Monday–Friday, though some locations allow Saturday weddings for an extra fee.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
❌ Mistake #1: Bringing an old birth certificate.
✅ Solution: Request a new one issued within the last 6 months.
❌ Mistake #2: Not using a certified translator.
✅ Solution: Check the official list of approved translators here.
❌ Mistake #3: Assuming you can just show up at a Standesamt and get married.
✅ Solution: Appointments and paperwork approval take time—start early!
❌ Mistake #4: Forgetting to check visa requirements.
✅ Solution: If you’re a non-EU citizen, check visa rules for marriage in Germany here.
Best Wedding Locations in Germany
If you’ve conquered the paperwork, you deserve a stunning wedding venue. Here are some magical locations:
💒 Neuschwanstein Castle (Bavaria) – The ultimate fairytale setting Website
🏰 Schloss Glücksburg (Schleswig-Holstein) – A dreamy white castle by the water Website
🌆 Berlin City Hall (Rotes Rathaus) – For a modern, urban vibe Website
🍇 Rhine Valley Vineyards – Wine, romance, and rolling hills—what’s not to love?
German Wedding Traditions You Might Love
Want to add some German flair to your wedding? Here are a few unique traditions:
🔨 Baumstamm Sägen (Log Sawing Ceremony) – After the wedding, couples must saw through a large log together—symbolizing teamwork in marriage. (Great for bonding, terrible for wedding outfits!)
🕊️ Kidnapping the Bride (Brautentführung) – In some regions, the groom’s friends “kidnap” the bride and take her to a bar, where the groom must find and “rescue” her (usually by paying for drinks!).
🍞 Polterabend – The night before the wedding, guests break porcelain dishes for good luck (but no glass—it’s bad luck!).
Final Thoughts: Say Ja! to Your Dream Wedding
Marriage in Germany is a journey of love, patience, and a lot of paperwork. But once you navigate the legal maze, you’ll get to celebrate in one of Europe’s most breathtaking locations.
And when it comes to capturing your perfect day, I’m here to help. As an experienced destination wedding photographer, I specialize in romantic, timeless photography that tells your love story.
📷 Check out my wedding portfolio: Your Happy Moments
💍 See my pricing & packages: Investment
📩 Let’s plan your dream wedding shoot: Contact Me
Ready to turn your wedding dreams into unforgettable memories? Let’s make magic together! 💕
