Legal Requirements and What to Expect
There’s a reason why so many couples from around the world choose Cyprus as the place to say “I do”. The island has a natural beauty that speaks to the heart — a warmth in both its weather and its people, and an effortless blend of romance and simplicity. For us at Eva Event Agency, witnessing this blend come to life in the form of a wedding never loses its magic.
But beyond the sea views and sunsets, we know there’s another side to planning a wedding abroad: the paperwork, the processes, and the quiet worry of “are we doing this right?” If you’re considering getting married in Cyprus as a foreigner, this guide is here to help you understand what’s involved — and, hopefully, to reassure you that it’s more accessible than it might seem.
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Why Cyprus Is a Popular Wedding Destination for Foreigners
Cyprus offers something truly unique for destination weddings — a legal marriage that’s not only recognised internationally, but also straightforward in terms of documentation and process. It’s part of what makes the island so attractive for couples coming from the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
You don’t need to be a resident of Cyprus to marry here, and civil weddings can be arranged relatively quickly once the paperwork is in place. That, combined with the sheer variety of wedding settings — from beachfronts to mountain chapels — makes Cyprus an ideal canvas for love stories from around the world.
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Legal Requirements for Foreigners Marrying in Cyprus
Let’s talk about the legalities. The process is clear, but like any official procedure, it needs to be handled with attention to detail. Below is a general overview of what’s typically required — though requirements may vary slightly depending on your nationality and personal circumstances.
Civil Marriage in Cyprus
Civil weddings in Cyprus are conducted by a Marriage Officer at the local Town Hall. These ceremonies are legally binding and recognised in most countries.
To apply for a civil marriage, both partners will usually need to:
• Be over 18 years of age
• Appear in person at the relevant Town Hall
• Provide valid passports
• Provide original birth certificates
• Supply a Certificate of No Impediment (a document from your country confirming you are free to marry)
• If previously married: a divorce certificate or death certificate of a previous spouse
• Sworn affidavits or statutory declarations, signed in the presence of a solicitor or notary, stating your intention to marry and confirming your marital status
All documents must be original or certified copies and, in most cases, translated into English or Greek by an authorised translator. Some documents may need to be apostilled or legalised, depending on your country of origin.
Timeframes and Fees
There are two main types of marriage application in Cyprus:
• Standard Notice: Requires a minimum of 15 days before the ceremony.
• Special Licence: Allows you to marry within just 2–3 working days (subject to availability and at an additional cost).
The fees for civil weddings vary depending on the municipality and the type of licence you choose.
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Religious Ceremonies for Foreign Nationals
Cyprus also allows religious weddings for foreigners, which may be held in a church or chapel. Orthodox, Anglican, Catholic and other denominations can conduct legally recognised ceremonies — though requirements may differ between churches.
In some cases, a civil ceremony is still required to ensure legal validity, especially if the church does not issue state-recognised documentation. It’s always worth confirming with both the church and your own country’s authorities if you plan to have a religious-only wedding.
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Additional Considerations for Your Cyprus Wedding
Translation and Legalisation
If your documents are in a language other than English or Greek, they will need to be professionally translated. Some documents may also require an apostille stamp or further legalisation depending on the issuing country.
It’s always advisable to bring more documentation than you think you’ll need, and to have everything neatly organised. Municipal offices in Cyprus are generally efficient and friendly, and having your paperwork in order helps ensure a smooth process.
Witnesses
You will need at least two witnesses over the age of 18 present at your ceremony. If you’re eloping or travelling alone, it’s often possible to arrange for witnesses locally — but always check in advance.
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What Happens After the Wedding?
After your ceremony, you will be issued an official marriage certificate. You can also request additional certified copies, which can be helpful for registering your marriage in your home country.
Most couples find that once the legal aspects are complete, the rest of the day flows easily. And honestly, that’s how a wedding should feel — clear, relaxed, and focused on what matters most.
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Planning Support and Guidance
While it’s entirely possible to handle the legal side of things yourself, many couples feel more comfortable having some guidance. From understanding which documents apply to you, to making appointments with the Town Hall, having support during the process can reduce stress and allow you to focus on the experience, not the logistics.
At Eva Event Agency, we’re often in touch with couples navigating these steps from afar, and we’re always happy to share insights and gentle guidance where needed.
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Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’re dreaming of a wedding in Cyprus and wondering where to begin — especially when it comes to the legal side — know that you’re not alone. Many of our couples have felt exactly the same at the start.
👉 Get in touch with us at Eva Event Agency, and let’s explore what’s possible. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a celebration with family and friends, we’re here to help you feel informed, inspired, and quietly confident about the steps ahead.
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