Dreaming of saying "I do" in the land of romance, history, and breathtaking views? Italy is the perfect destination for a wedding that feels straight out of a fairytale. But as a US citizen, making your Italian wedding legally official involves some paperwork and planning. It might sound intimidating, but don’t worry ...
With some preparation, you’ll be walking down the aisle in Italy in no time. Let’s get started!
Understand Italy’s Marriage Requirements
- · You and your partner must both be at least 18 years old to marry.
- · If you’re under 18, you’ll need written parental consent.
- · Both of you must be single, divorced, or widowed to legally remarry.
- · Marriages in Italy are available to all couples, whether you’re both US citizens or one of you is Italian.
Collect All the Required Documents
Before boarding your flight to Italy, you’ll need to gather a few important documents.
Here’s what you’ll need:
· A valid US passport: This proves your identity and citizenship. Make sure it’s not expiring anytime soon!
· Your birth certificate: The long-form version, showing both parents’ names.
· An affidavit of eligibility to marry: Known as the Dichiarazione Giurata, this document states you’re free to marry.
How to Prepare Your Documents?
Visit the US Embassy or Consulate in Italy
One of the key steps to getting legally married in Italy is obtaining your Dichiarazione Giurata. This affidavit confirms you are legally free to marry and meets Italy’s requirements for foreign nationals.
Choose Your Type of Ceremony
Civil ceremonies
These are conducted by a local government official at the town hall or another approved location. Civil ceremonies are simple, straightforward, and recognized worldwide. Popular town halls, like those in Florence, Rome, or Venice, are often historic buildings that add charm to your day.
After filing your marriage intent, there’s usually a small waiting period before the ceremony. The exact time can vary depending on the Comune, but it’s typically a few days to a couple of weeks. It’s important to factor this into your wedding timeline to avoid any last-minute stress.
During this time, you can finalize wedding details, explore your Italian location, and soak in the excitement of your upcoming day.
Celebrate Your Big Day
Once all the legal steps are complete, you’re ready to walk down the aisle! Whether you’re exchanging vows in a historic town hall, a stunning cathedral, or a charming garden, your Italian wedding will be unforgettable.
Your photographer will capture the beauty of the moment, and your guests will be enchanted by Italy’s natural and cultural splendor. This is your moment to enjoy, surrounded by love and the beauty of Italy.
After Ceremony Registration in the US
After your wedding, you’ll receive an official Italian marriage certificate. This document is legally valid, but you may need to register your marriage in the US. To do this:
Conclusion
Getting legally married in Italy as a US citizen involves some steps, but the reward is worth it. Imagine celebrating your love in one of the most romantic places on Earth. From the paperwork to the vows, every moment adds to your unforgettable journey.
With a bit of planning and patience, your dream wedding in Italy will become a reality. So go ahead—embrace the charm, beauty, and romance of Italy, and get ready to say “I do” in a way you’ll remember forever.
“Being legally married in Italy isn’t just about the paperwork—it’s about creating a love story that’s as magical as the country itself.”
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