Switzerland is a dream destination for couples who want to tie the knot amidst stunning landscapes and charming cities. But if you and your partner are not Swiss citizens or residents, how can you legally get married in Switzerland? Most of the people go for a symbolic celebration however if you want it to be official, you can do paper work in oder to do it. This guide will walk you through the entire process, including legal requirements, documents needed, and useful tips for a smooth wedding experience.
1. Who Can Get Married in Switzerland?
Switzerland allows foreigners to get legally married, but there are specific requirements that must be met. Both parties must:
Be at least 18 years old.
Not be already married or in a registered partnership.
Have the legal capacity to marry according to their home country’s laws.
Provide the necessary documentation (explained below).
2. What Type of Weddings Are Legal in Switzerland?
Civil Marriage: The only legally recognized form of marriage in Switzerland is a civil ceremony. Religious or symbolic ceremonies can be held afterward but have no legal standing. A civil wedding must be celebrate in a civil registry office.
Same-Sex Marriage: Since July 1, 2022, same-sex couples can legally marry in Switzerland.
3. Legal Process for Foreigners to Marry in Switzerland
Step 1: Choose Your Civil Registry Office
Civil marriages must take place at a Swiss civil registry office (Zivilstandsamt / Office de l’état civil / Ufficio dello stato civile). You can choose any location in Switzerland, but you must submit your application in advance.
Step 2: Submit Your Application and Required Documents
Both partners must provide the following documents:
Valid Passport or National ID Card (with a visa if required).
Birth Certificate (issued within the last 6 months, officially translated if not in English, German, French, or Italian).
Proof of Marital Status (a certificate stating you are single, widowed, or divorced, issued by your home country and translated if necessary).
Proof of Residence (if applicable).
Additional Documents: Depending on your nationality, the civil registry office may request other documents, such as a certificate of no impediment to marriage from your home country.
These documents must be legalized with an apostille or authenticated by the Swiss embassy in your home country.
Step 3: Receive Approval & Set a Wedding Date
The register office where you’re applying to get married will be able to guide you through this, though you shouldn’t wait until the last minute to get it done. Once the authorities verify your documents, they will approve your application. The processing time varies but usually takes 4 to 8 weeks. After approval, you usually schedule the civil wedding within three months.
Step 4: Civil Wedding Ceremony
The official civil ceremony takes place at the registry office, conducted by a government official. It is a short, formal event with at least two witnesses. Afterward, you receive an official Swiss marriage certificate.
In this website you can see some special location that have a few dates available for Civil weddings.
Costs
A civil ceremony fee can range from CHF 300 to CHF 400. However, if you choose to have the ceremony outside the registry office or on a Saturday, additional costs may apply. If you opt for a religious or other type of ceremony after the civil one, the costs can increase significantly, depending on your preferences.
Maybe the best is directly call or filled a inquiry and ask about the process.
I think its this number +41 31 635 42 00 (if not they can maybe give you the good one)
My name is Anaelle, and born and based Swiss photographer. I mostly work with foreigners and in addition to my photography I'm always very happy to help my couples in any process, research, location scout,... Feel free to contact me!
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