Getting Married in Croatia

Types of Wedding Ceremonies

Getting married in Croatia can be a beautiful experience and they are endless options where you can can have you wedding ceremony. They are three main types of wedding ceremony in Croatia: Civil, Church or Symbolic. Outlined below is some important information, but please understand that this is intended to be a guideline only. We try and maintain this information and ensure that it is constantly up to date and accurate, but we are not legal professionals. We advise you to also consult the Croatian Embassy or Consulate regarding your personal situation, for first-hand information that will be correct.

1. The only form of wedding ceremony in Croatia that is legally binding is a civil ceremony. They must be conducted by a “maticar” - an official Croatian registrar.

2. Civil ceremonies can take place in almost any location (they are not confined to a church).

3. Your civil ceremony must be approved by the Registry Office.

4. There is no minimum residency period required in order to qualify for a civil ceremony in Croatia.

5. If only one or neither of you speak Croatian, then a court-appointed translator must be present at the civil ceremony.

6. You may choose to have a religious wedding ceremony before or after the civil ceremony takes place. The religious ceremony can occur in Croatia, or in your own country of residence. Religious ceremonies of any kind are not considered legally binding.

7. Symbolic ceremony is the most cost-effective option and can be personalised and conducted in any language.