So, you’ve decided to get married in Portugal—congratulations! Whether it’s the sun-drenched vineyards of the Douro Valley, the romantic cliffs of the Algarve, or the fairy-tale palaces of Sintra, Portugal is an unbeatable destination for a dream wedding.
But before you start practicing your vows in Portuguese (“Eu te amo” sounds so much more poetic than “I love you,” doesn’t it?), let’s talk about the not-so-glamorous part: paperwork.
Yes, I know, legal documents aren’t as exciting as wedding cakes and first dances, but without them, there’s no wedding. So grab a coffee (or a glass of vinho verde 🍷), and let’s get through this together.
1. Can Foreigners Get Married in Portugal?
Absolutely! Portugal allows foreigners to marry here without requiring residency. Whether you’re an EU citizen or from outside the bloc, you can legally tie the knot.
💡 Good news: Portugal legalized same-sex marriage in 2010, so love is love, and everyone is welcome to say “I do” under the Portuguese sun.
2. Documents Required for a Legal Wedding in Portugal
Here’s the ultimate checklist to make sure your big day goes smoothly:
✅ Valid passports (for both partners)
✅ Birth certificates (issued within the last six months)
✅ Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) – This document proves you’re legally free to marry. You can get it from your home country’s embassy or consulate.
✅ Prenuptial agreement (if applicable) – If you want a specific property regime, you must arrange this before the wedding.
✅ Divorce or death certificate (if applicable) – If one of you was previously married, you’ll need proof that the marriage ended legally.
📌 Important: Documents not in Portuguese must be officially translated and legalized with an Apostille stamp.
👉 Pro Tip: Bureaucracy in Portugal can be… let’s say, “relaxed.” Start gathering your paperwork at least 3-6 months in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
3. Civil vs. Religious Weddings in Portugal: What’s the Difference?
📜 Civil Ceremony (Straight to the point, legally binding)
A civil wedding is conducted at a Conservatória do Registo Civil (Civil Registry Office). If you prefer a more scenic venue, you can request an official to marry you elsewhere.
💡 Timeframe: You must submit your documents at least 6 weeks before the wedding date.
⛪ Religious Wedding (For a sacred touch)
Portugal recognizes Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and Islamic weddings. If you choose a Catholic ceremony, you’ll also need:
- Baptism and Confirmation certificates
- Permission from your local parish to marry abroad
- Pre-marriage course certificate (yes, the church likes to make sure you’re ready!)
Important: Even if you have a religious wedding, you’ll still need to complete the civil paperwork first.
4. Where to Register Your Marriage
Once you’re married, your union is automatically recorded in Portugal. If you’re from another country, don’t forget to register your marriage back home to avoid legal headaches later.
Find the nearest Portuguese Civil Registry Office here: Instituto dos Registos e Notariado
5. Best Wedding Destinations in Portugal
Now for the fun part—choosing the perfect wedding location!
🌿 Sintra – A fairy-tale setting with misty forests and colorful castles. (Check out Pena Palace)
🌊 Algarve – Golden beaches and endless sunshine. (Venues like Vidamar Resorts Algarve are stunning!)
🍷 Douro Valley – Say your vows at a vineyard with breathtaking views.
🏛 Lisbon & Porto – Classic, elegant, and full of charm.
👉 Looking for a romantic manor? Check out Quinta do Torneiro.
6. Common Questions About Getting Married in Portugal
💡 FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
1. Do we need to be residents of Portugal to get married?
No! Foreigners can marry in Portugal without residency.
2. How long does the paperwork process take?
It depends on your nationality, but generally, plan for 3-6 months to gather, translate, and legalize your documents.
3. Will our Portuguese marriage be recognized in our home country?
Most likely, yes. However, register your marriage with your country’s embassy to be sure.
4. Can we have an outdoor wedding?
Yes! Portugal allows ceremonies in various stunning locations—you just need permission from the local authorities.
7. Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
Planning a wedding abroad can feel overwhelming, but Portugal makes it worth the effort. The paperwork might take some patience, but once you’re exchanging vows under the sun, with the ocean breeze in your hair and a glass of port wine in hand, you’ll know it was all worth it.
And hey—if you need a photographer who knows all the best locations and lighting tricks, I might just know someone 😉.
📸 Check out my portfolio: Your Happy Moments
💰 Explore wedding photography packages: Investment
📩 Let’s chat and make magic happen: Contact Me
Now, go book those flights and start your Portuguese wedding adventure! 🎉
