So, you’ve found the one, and now you’re dreaming of saying “Ja!” in the heart of Germany. Whether it’s a chic Berlin rooftop, a romantic Bavarian castle, or a lakeside ceremony in Hamburg, Germany offers incredible wedding locations. But before you start thinking about flowers and champagne, let’s talk about the real challenge—German bureaucracy.
Yes, getting married in Germany as a foreigner involves paperwork, patience, and a fair bit of deep breathing. But don’t worry! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, with a dash of humor to keep things fun. Let’s dive in!
💍 Can Foreigners Get Married in Germany?
Absolutely! Germany welcomes international couples, but the process depends on your nationality, residency status, and whether you can survive navigating the legendary German Beamtendeutsch (official bureaucratic German).
Step 1: Visit the Standesamt (Registry Office)
The first and most important thing you need to know: all legal marriages in Germany happen at the Standesamt (Registry Office). Even if you dream of a grand church or outdoor wedding, the civil ceremony comes first.
📍 Where? The Standesamt in the city where one of you is officially registered (angemeldet).
🔗 Find your local Standesamt here: German Standesamt Directory
📜 Documents You Need to Get Married in Germany
Here’s where the fun begins—German bureaucracy loves documents. Here’s what you (and your partner) will likely need:
✅ Passport (or national ID for EU citizens)
✅ Birth certificate (issued within the last 6 months)
✅ Residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel, if applicable)
✅ Ehefähigkeitszeugnis (Certificate of No Impediment) from your home country, confirming you’re legally free to marry
✅ Official translations of all documents (unless they’re in German)
✅ If previously married: Divorce decree or death certificate of former spouse
🚨 Potential challenge: Some countries don’t issue a Certificate of No Impediment (Ehefähigkeitszeugnis). In this case, you may need an affidavit from your embassy confirming your single status. Check with your country’s embassy for details.
⏳ How Long Does It Take?
Once you submit your documents to the Standesamt, the processing time varies by city and nationality.
⌛ Processing time: Anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on your case.
💰 Fees: Expect to pay €50–€250 for document processing, translations, and administration costs.
🎯 Pro Tip: Start preparing your documents at least 6 months before your planned wedding date!
🎉 Where to Get Married in Germany?
Now for the fun part—choosing a dreamy wedding location!
🏰 Fairy-Tale Castles
If you’ve always wanted a royal wedding, consider:
- Neuschwanstein Castle (Bavaria) – The castle that inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle. (More info)
- Schloss Drachenburg (Bonn) – A Rhine-side castle with breathtaking views. (More info)
🌆 Romantic Cities
- Berlin – Trendy lofts, historic registry offices, and cool urban vibes.
- Munich – Classic elegance with Bavarian charm.
- Hamburg – A waterfront wedding in the Speicherstadt district.
🚀 Tip: Germany allows symbolic ceremonies anywhere after your civil wedding—so get creative!
❓ FAQ: Common Questions About Getting Married in Germany
Can non-residents get married in Germany?
Technically, yes, but it’s much easier if at least one of you lives in Germany. If neither of you are residents, expect more paperwork, embassy visits, and delays.
Can we change our last names after marriage?
Yes, but you have to decide before the wedding. Your options:
🔹 Keep your own names
🔹 One partner takes the other’s surname
🔹 Create a hyphenated last name (Müller-Schmidt)
Do we need a wedding planner?
If you’re not fluent in German and don’t want to deal with bureaucracy, a local wedding planner can save you a LOT of stress.
🎯 Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Paperwork?
YES! Yes, there’s paperwork. Yes, German bureaucracy is… special. But at the end of the day, you’re marrying the love of your life in a stunning country that will forever be part of your love story.
✨ And don’t forget—the wedding day is fleeting, but the memories? They last forever.
📸 Want breathtaking wedding photos to capture your love story? Let’s make magic together!
💖 See my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
📷 Find the perfect photography package: Wedding Photography Packages
📩 Let’s talk about your wedding! Contact Me
Your love story deserves to be captured beautifully—let’s make it unforgettable! 💕
