Are you planning to get married in Portugal? Understanding the legal and administrative process is essential to ensure everything goes smoothly. This guide will explain step by step how to get married in Portugal, covering all the necessary documents, costs, and procedures.

1. Types of Marriage in Portugal – How to Get Married in Portugal

If you are wondering how to get married in Portugal, you must first choose the type of marriage:

• Civil marriage: Conducted at a Civil Registry Office or another authorized location.
• Catholic marriage: Celebrated according to the rules of the Catholic Church, with subsequent registration at the Civil Registry.
• Civil marriage in religious form: Conducted by other religious denominations recognized by the Portuguese State.

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2. Who Can Initiate the Marriage Process in Portugal?

The marriage process in Portugal can be initiated by:

• The couple themselves;
• A legally appointed representative, such as a lawyer.

3. How to Start the Process to Get Married in Portugal

The first step in getting married in Portugal is to submit a declaration of intent to marry at the Civil Registry Office. At this stage, the couple must provide the following information:

• Type of marriage (civil, Catholic, or civil in religious form);
• The location where they wish to get married in Portugal;
• The chosen property regime;
• The desired date and time for the ceremony.

4. Required Documents to Get Married in Portugal

The couple must present the following documents:

• Identification documents (Citizen Card or Passport);
• Residence Permit (for foreigners);
• Birth certificate (for foreigners, if required);
• Certificate of prenuptial agreement, if applicable.

If one of the parties is represented by a proxy, the power of attorney must:

• Be an authenticated document;
• Contain specific powers for the act;
• Indicate the identity of the spouse and the chosen property regime;
• Specify the type of marriage.

5. Deadlines and Possibility of Objection to Getting Married in Portugal

The marriage must take place within six months after process approval.
During this period, any person may file an objection, citing legal impediments.
If the objection is accepted, the couple will be notified and may appeal the decision.

6. Civil Registry Fees to Get Married in Portugal

The cost of getting married in Portugal is €120. Additional costs may apply depending on factors such as:

• Ceremony on weekends or public holidays;
• Choice of a location outside the Civil Registry Office;
• Marriage under a special property regime.

7. Legal Impediments to Getting Married in Portugal

In Portugal, the following individuals cannot get married:

• Those under 16 years old;
• Those between 16 and 18 years old without parental or guardian consent;
• Those who are legally incapacitated due to mental health issues;
• Those already married;
• Direct relatives or siblings;
• Uncles and nieces/nephews;
• Those with affinity in a direct line (e.g., stepfather and stepdaughter);
• Those under guardianship, legal supervision, or asset management relationships;
• Those convicted of intentional homicide of a spouse of one of the parties.

8. Conclusion – How to Get Married in Portugal

Getting married in Portugal is a straightforward process as long as all legal requirements are met. To ensure everything runs smoothly, it is advisable to start the process at least one month in advance. If legal representation is required, a lawyer may be appointed to handle the process.

To ensure everything goes as planned, always consult a specialized lawyer.

Adriano Martins Pinheiro, Lawyer in Portugal