Same-sex Civil Marriage in Greece: Required Documentation and Procedure
The enactment of Law 5089/2024 made Greece the 16th country in the European Union to fully recognize civil marriage between persons of the same sex! Effective since March 17, 2024, this law has already brought about significant legal, social, and practical developments, not only within Greece but also for couples wishing to have their marriage recognized abroad.
But first, let’s look at what is required to legally marry your significant other in Greece, whether you already reside here or wish to travel to Greece to experience your special wedding day in our country.
In all cases, to conclude a civil marriage in Greece, you will need a marriage license, in accordance with the requirements of Greek legislation.
1. Non-EU Citizens Residing in Greece
If you are a citizen of a non-EU country and reside permanently or temporarily in Greece, you can request the issuance of a marriage license from the Municipality of your residence. The following are required for the issuance of the license:
Birth Certificate: Issued within the last six months, officially translated into Greek and authenticated either with an Apostille (if the issuing country is a party to the Hague Convention) or via consular legalization.
Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage: From your Embassy or other competent authority of your country, officially translated into Greek and authenticated (Apostille or consular legalization). It must explicitly state that the document is issued for the performance of a marriage between persons of the same sex in Greece.
Residence Permit: Or other proof of legal residence in Greece.
Note: If you do not reside in Greece but wish to come here for your wedding, you need a valid marriage license from your home country, issued according to your local legislation. If your country does not issue such a license, you may apply for one from a Greek Municipality under the same conditions as residents, provided that residence in Greece can be proven by documents (e.g., temporary stay or through your partner).
2. EU Citizens Residing in Greece
If you are an EU citizen residing in Greece, you can apply for a marriage license at the Municipality of your residence. You will need:
Birth Certificate: Issued within the last six months, officially translated into Greek and authenticated (Apostille or consular legalization).
Certificate of Marital Status / Single Status: From your home country, officially translated into Greek and authenticated (Apostille or consular legalization).
Proof of Dissolution of Previous Unions (if applicable): An officially translated and authenticated Divorce Decree, Cohabitation Agreement Dissolution Certificate, or Death Certificate of a previous spouse.
Statutory Declaration (Law 1599/1986): Signed by you, stating that there is no legal impediment to performing a marriage with a person of the same sex.
Professional Legal Support
Although same-sex civil marriage is now legally established in Greece, it may involve legal and administrative nuances that require careful handling—especially regarding the collection, translation, and authentication of documents.
A specialized law firm with experience in Family and International Private Law can guide you safely through every stage of the process, ensuring the smooth and valid performance of your marriage in Greece.
GeorgiadouLaw is here to support you. Contact us today to start planning your legal path to marriage in Greece.