(Or How to Survive Italian Bureaucracy and Still Say “I Do”)
So, you’ve fallen in love—not just with your partner, but also with Italy. Who could blame you? The rolling Tuscan hills, the dramatic Amalfi cliffs, the gondolas of Venice—this country is basically the movie set of romance.
But before you exchange vows in a medieval castle or a vineyard under the Italian sun, there’s one small hurdle: getting legally married in Italy as a foreigner.
Spoiler alert: It involves paperwork. A lot of it.
Don’t panic—I’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in Italy without losing your mind.
Types of Weddings in Italy for Foreigners: Civil vs. Religious
Italy recognizes two main types of weddings for foreigners:
1. Civil Ceremony (Legally Binding)
✅ Recognized internationally.
✅ Performed at an official venue (town halls, historic palaces, or authorized locations).
✅ Conducted in Italian (you’ll need an interpreter if you’re not fluent).
💡 Reality Check: Some of the most iconic locations, like Florence, Venice, and Positano, have breathtaking town halls where civil ceremonies take place—think frescoed ceilings and marble floors.
2. Religious Ceremony (Catholic or Other Faiths)
✅ Catholic weddings can be legally binding if the church coordinates with Italian authorities.
✅ Other religious weddings (Protestant, Jewish, Hindu, etc.) may require a separate civil ceremony for legal recognition.
💡 Insider Tip: Many couples handle the legal paperwork at home first, then have a symbolic ceremony in Italy to avoid bureaucracy.
Step 1: Documents You’ll Need to Get Married in Italy
Brace yourself—this is where things get serious. To legally marry in Italy, you’ll need:
🔹 Mandatory Documents
✅ Passports (valid for both partners).
✅ Birth Certificates (translated into Italian and apostilled).
✅ Dichiarazione Giurata (Sworn Statement) – A declaration at the Italian Consulate in your home country stating you’re legally free to marry.
✅ Atto Notorio (Additional Declaration) – A sworn statement from witnesses, obtained in Italy or at the Italian Consulate.
✅ Nulla Osta (Certificate of No Impediment) – Issued by your home country’s embassy in Italy, confirming you can legally marry.
💡 If you’ve been married before, you’ll need additional documents like a divorce decree or death certificate (also translated and apostilled).
Step 2: Submitting Your Paperwork (a.k.a. The Paper Chase)
Once you have all your documents ready:
1️⃣ Visit the local Comune (Town Hall) in the city where you’ll get married.
2️⃣ Submit your paperwork at least a month in advance (some locations may require longer).
3️⃣ Complete a mandatory “Declaration of Intent” (kind of like a wedding announcement).
4️⃣ Wait for approval—usually within a few days, but don’t be surprised if it takes longer (this is Italy, after all).
💡 Hot Tip: If you’re marrying in Lake Como, Positano, or Venice, start this process months in advance. These locations are in high demand!
Step 3: The Wedding Ceremony
Now comes the fun part—actually getting married!
🏛 Civil Ceremony: Conducted by the mayor or local official, usually inside a town hall (though some locations allow outdoor ceremonies).
⛪ Religious Ceremony: If legally recognized, a Catholic priest can officiate, but you’ll need special permissions from the Church.
💡 Reality Check: Expect a formal ceremony—no casual Vegas-style vows here. In Italy, even paperwork has a sense of drama.
Step 4: Registering Your Marriage
After the ceremony, your marriage certificate will be issued by the Comune. If you need it recognized back home, get it translated and apostilled.
💡 Pro Tip: Some couples opt for an international marriage certificate, which simplifies recognition in other countries.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Married in Italy?
💰 Civil Ceremony Fees: Vary by location (€100–€500+).
💰 Religious Wedding Fees: Church fees vary, but expect to donate (€200–€1000).
💰 Document Translations & Legal Fees: Around €200–€500.
💰 Wedding Planner Fees: If you hire one, expect to pay from €1000+.
FAQs: Quick Answers to Common Questions
Can I get married in Italy on a tourist visa?
Yes! As long as you complete the paperwork correctly, a tourist visa is fine.
How long does it take to process a marriage license in Italy?
It depends on the location. Some town halls take a few days, while others require a month or more.
Can same-sex couples get legally married in Italy?
Unfortunately, Italy does not allow same-sex marriage, but civil unions are legal.
What if I don’t speak Italian?
You’ll need a certified translator or interpreter for official procedures and ceremonies.
Best Places to Get Married in Italy
Looking for a dream wedding location? Here are some top picks:
🌿 Tuscany (Florence, Siena, Cortona) – Rolling hills, vineyards, and Renaissance charm. Visit Florence’s official site
🌊 Amalfi Coast (Positano, Ravello, Sorrento) – Clifftop views, lemon groves, and stunning seaside backdrops. Check out Amalfi’s tourism page
🏞 Lake Como (Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo) – The epitome of luxury and elegance. Plan your Como wedding
🎭 Venice – Gondolas, history, and pure romance. Official Venice tourism page
🏛 Rome – The Eternal City, where love and history collide. Explore Rome
Final Thoughts (and Why You Need a Photographer Who Gets It)
Let’s be honest—navigating Italian bureaucracy is not the most romantic part of your wedding journey. But you know what is? The breathtaking moments, the laughter, the stolen kisses, and the magic of Italy as your backdrop.
While you focus on making your dream wedding happen, I’ll be there to capture every unforgettable second. From golden sunsets in Tuscany to moonlit dances in Positano, I specialize in turning your love story into timeless images.
📸 Explore real wedding stories: Your Happy Moments Blog
📷 Discover my wedding photography packages: Investment Details
📩 Let’s make your wedding unforgettable! Contact Me Here
Now, go plan your dream Italian wedding—with love, laughter, and maybe a glass of prosecco. Salute! 🥂🇮🇹
