Portugal has become one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations for couples who wish to marry abroad. With dramatic coastlines, historic cities, golden light and a relaxed atmosphere, the country offers the perfect setting for an intimate wedding or elopement.

For many international couples, one of the first questions is simple: How does the legal process work?

The good news is that marrying legally in Portugal is very possible for foreigners. With the right preparation and timing, the process can be smooth and straightforward.

Here is a clear guide to the 7 essential steps to marry legally in Portugal.

1. Confirm that you are legally free to marry

Before beginning the process in Portugal, both partners must be legally free to marry according to:

• the laws of their home country
• Portuguese law

This means that if either partner was previously married, the divorce must be legally final or the previous spouse must be deceased.

Civil Registry Offices will verify this information during the marriage process.

2. Prepare your identification documents

Each partner must present valid identification.

This usually includes:

• Passport (for non-EU citizens)
• National ID card (for EU citizens)

The document must be valid at the time the marriage process is opened.

3. Obtain a recent birth certificate

Both partners must present a birth certificate issued within the last six months.

In most cases, the full version of the certificate is required.

Some European countries issue multilingual birth certificates, which can make the process easier as they may not require translation.

4. Obtain proof that you are free to marry

Each country issues this document in a slightly different format. Its purpose is to confirm that there are no legal obstacles to the marriage.

Common examples include:

• Certificate of No Impediment (United Kingdom, Australia)
• Single Status Affidavit (United States)
• Statutory Declaration of Single Status (Canada)

This document is essential for the Portuguese Civil Registry.

5. Legalise your documents with the Hague Apostille

Documents issued outside Portugal must usually be authenticated with a Hague Apostille to be officially recognised by Portuguese authorities.

The Apostille confirms that the document is authentic and valid for international use.

Most countries used by destination wedding couples, including the UK, USA, Canada and Australia, are members of the Hague Apostille Convention, which simplifies this step.

6. Translate documents into Portuguese

Any document that is not issued in Portuguese must be translated. The translation must be done by a certified translator so it can be accepted by the Civil Registry.

Many couples choose to arrange translations in Portugal, as it can simplify the process and ensure that the format meets registry requirements.

7. Open the marriage process at a Portuguese Civil Registry

The final step before the ceremony is opening the official marriage process at a Portuguese Civil Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Civil).

This step normally takes place six months before the wedding date.

Once the documents are approved, the registry authorises the marriage, and the ceremony can take place:

• at the registry office
• or at an authorised venue.

A helpful tip for international couples

Some couples choose to complete the legal marriage in their home country and celebrate a symbolic ceremony in Portugal.

This option allows complete freedom to choose the location, time of day, and style of ceremony — something many eloping couples appreciate.

Planning your elopement in Portugal

Planning a wedding abroad can feel complex at first, but with the right guidance, the process becomes much easier.

At Elope in Portugal, we support couples from around the world who wish to celebrate their love in meaningful and unforgettable ways, whether through a legal ceremony or a symbolic celebration.

From breathtaking landscapes to intimate ceremonies crafted with care, Portugal offers an extraordinary setting for the beginning of a new chapter.

And sometimes, all it takes is seven simple steps to start the journey. ✨

March 5th, 2026