Get Married in Romania: Complete Guide to Marriage in Romania and Romanian Wedding

Marriage in Romania is a unique journey combining rich traditions, legal formalities, and heartfelt celebrations. Whether you are planning to get married in Romania as a foreigner or exploring the beauty of a traditional Romanian wedding, this guide will provide everything you need to know about matrimony in Romania

 

 

Planning a marriage in Romania offers a unique opportunity to celebrate love while embracing the country’s rich culture and history. Whether you’re a foreigner looking to get married in Romania or simply fascinated by the charm of a traditional Romanian wedding, understanding the legal and cultural aspects is essential. Romania matrimony combines the elegance of civil ceremonies with the vibrant rituals of traditional celebrations, creating a memorable experience for couples and their guests.

 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about marriage in Romania for foreigners, including Romania marriage law, getting married in Romania requirements, and the allure of a traditional Romanian wedding. From navigating the paperwork for a contract marriage in Romania to planning a cultural wedding in Romania, this article will help you make your special day truly unforgettable.

 

Why Choose Romania for Your Wedding?

 

Romania is a land of vibrant traditions, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. From medieval castles to rustic countryside settings, Romania offers a wide variety of picturesque venues for a memorable wedding. Beyond its scenic beauty, a Romanian wedding is steeped in cultural significance and ancient rituals, making it an extraordinary experience.

 

Understanding Romania’s Marriage Laws

 

To get married in Romania, it is essential to understand Romania’s marriage law and legal requirements. Here’s a breakdown:

 

Eligibility for getting married in Romania

 

• Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. With parental consent, minors aged 16-17 can marry in exceptional cases.

• Marital Status: Neither party can already be married (polygamy is illegal).

• Consent: Both individuals must agree to the marriage freely.

 

Marriage in Romania for Foreigners

 

Foreigners can marry Romanian citizens or other foreigners in Romania. However, specific documentation is required, and it’s advisable to start preparations well in advance.

 

Getting Married in Romania: Legal Requirements for Romanian Wedding

 

If you’re planning a marriage in Romania, understanding the legal steps is key to a smooth process. Romania marriage law requires couples to complete a civil ceremony at a local Register Office to make the union legally binding.

 

For Weddings between Romanians

 

• Valid ID card

• Birth certificate (original and certified copy)

• Proof of marital status (certificate of celibacy or divorce decree)

 

For Weddings between Foreigners or including a Foreign Spouse

 

1. Passport or ID card: Must be valid and accompanied by a Romanian translation. For European Union countries: national ID card or passport and for other countries: the passport with the valid in force visa.

2. Birth Certificate: Officially translated into Romanian and notarized.

3. Certificate of No Impediment (CNI): Issued by the authorities in your home country, confirming you are legally free to marry.

4. Residency Proof: Temporary or permanent residence permit in Romania may be required.

5. Medical Certificate: Issued within 14 days prior to the wedding, certifying the couple is fit to marry.

6. Divorce/Death Certificates / Final Divorce Court Decision: If previously married, these documents must also be translated and authenticated.

7. The Interpreter: If a foreign national intends to marry a Romanian in Romania and does not speak Romanian, they must have an authorized legal interpreter present during both the marriage declaration filing and the wedding day itself.

8. The Medical Procedure. If you're looking to get married in Romania, note that both partners are required to undergo a blood test, which must then be certified by a licensed medical professional. Historically, this test screened for a variety of diseases, but recent legal updates mean it now primarily checks for syphilis. Some local authorities may also request an HIV test, though this is not mandated by law. You can have the blood test performed at any clinic that offers medical analyses. Keep in mind that the blood test must be completed no more than 14 days prior to your civil ceremony at the city hall, as the results, known as the “buletin de analize,” are only valid for that period.

9. Marriage Declaration. No guide on getting married in Romania would be thorough without exploring the specific details and choices available to couples. As you fill out the marriage declaration, you'll encounter various categories with multiple options to choose from, including the following: surnames of spouses, matrimonial regime etc.

 

The foreign documents which will be submitted to the Romanian city hall will need to be translated into Romanian unless they are Multilingual documents. Translations must be accompanied by an apostille from the originating country unless they are from one of the countries exempted by bilateral treaties.

 

Pro Tip: Visit the civil registry office in the locality where the marriage will take place for specific guidance.

 

 

Civil vs. Religious Marriage in Romania

 

In Romania, the civil marriage ceremony is the only legally recognized form of marriage. This takes place at the local City Hall, officiated by a registrar. A religious ceremony can follow, but it holds no legal status unless preceded by the civil ceremony.

 

Civil Ceremony in Romania

 

• Takes about 10-20 minutes.

• Witnesses are required.

• Documents must be submitted 10-14 days in advance.

 

Religious Ceremony in Romania

 

• Performed in a church.

• Requires completion of the civil marriage first.

• Often includes traditional Romanian wedding customs.

 

Contract Marriage in Romania and Matrimonial Regime

 

Prenuptial agreements (commonly referred to as "contract marriage in Romania") are allowed under Romanian law. Couples can formalize property arrangements and financial matters before marriage. These contracts must be notarized to be legally binding.

 

You can find out more on the matrimonial regime in Romania in the following article available on our blog called Navigate the marriage regime in Romania: What do you need to know before tying the knot? Everything you need to know on the matrimonial regimes. 

 

Traditional Romanian Wedding: A Cultural Delight

 

A traditional Romanian wedding is a lively, multi-day event filled with music, dancing, and symbolic rituals. Here are some highlights:

 

Key Traditions

 

1. Bride's Dowry and Groom’s Procession:

   • A ceremonial gathering at the bride’s house where the groom, along with his entourage, "negotiates" to win the bride.

2. Stealing the Bride:

   • Guests “kidnap” the bride during the celebration, and the groom must “rescue” her by fulfilling amusing tasks or paying a ransom.

3. Hora Dance:

   • A communal dance symbolizing unity and joy, often performed around the couple.

 

Traditional Attire

 

• Brides may wear intricately embroidered gowns, and grooms often don traditional shirts and vests.

• The "crown" for brides, made of flowers or coins, is a staple.

 

Food and Music

 

• Romanian weddings are known for abundant feasts featuring sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), cozonac (sweet bread), and palinka (plum brandy).

• Folk music and traditional bands keep guests dancing until dawn.

 

Tips for Planning a Wedding in Romania

 

1. Venue Selection:

   • Choose from castles like Bran Castle, rustic farms, or modern city venues.

2. Local Wedding Planners:

   • Consider hiring a local wedding planner familiar with Romanian wedding customs and legalities.

3. Seasonal Considerations:

   • Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor weddings, while autumn provides stunning foliage.

 

Costs of a Wedding in Romania

 

Romania is an affordable wedding destination compared to Western Europe. Here’s an approximate breakdown:

 

• Venue: €1,000 - €5,000

• Catering: €20 - €50 per person

• Wedding Attire: €500 - €2,000

• Photographer/Videographer: €500 - €4,000

• Total Average Cost: €5,000 - €25,000

 

Why Romania Matrimony is Unique

 

Marriage in Romania goes beyond legal formalities. It is a celebration of love, community, and heritage. Whether you’re embracing Romanian traditions or planning a minimalist ceremony, Romania offers endless possibilities to make your special day unforgettable.

 

How to Register a Marriage in Romania for Romanian Citizens Married Abroad

 

Registering a marriage in Romania for Romanian citizens married abroad is a straightforward but detail-oriented process. Below is a step-by-step guide to ensure compliance with Romania marriage law and successful registration in the country’s Civil Registries.

 

1. Application Submission

• Where to Submit:

  • If the Romanian citizen previously lived in Romania, the application must be submitted to the mayor of the city where they resided before leaving the country.

  • For Romanian citizens who never lived in Romania, the application must be submitted to the mayor of Bucharest’s Sector 1.

• How to Submit:

  • The application can be submitted personally by the Romanian citizen or through a representative authorized with a special power of attorney.

 

2. Power of Attorney Requirements

If a representative submits the application, the power of attorney must comply with the following rules:

• Hague Convention Countries:

  • The power of attorney must include an apostille.

• Countries with Legal Assistance Treaties:

  • No legalization is required.

• All Other Countries:

  • The power of attorney must be legalized, requiring:

    • A stamp from the issuing authority.

    • A stamp from the Romanian diplomatic mission in the country of issue.

    • A stamp from the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

 

3. Required Documents for Marriage Registration in Romania

The application form, available at City Hall, must be submitted with the following documents:

1. Marriage Certificate:

   • Original certificate issued by foreign authorities.

   • A photocopy and certified Romanian translation.

   • Legalization or apostille requirements apply, based on the issuing country:

     • Hague Convention Countries: Apostille required.

     • Countries with Treaties: No legalization required.

     • Other Countries: Legalization required.

2. Supporting Documents:

   • Photocopies of the Romanian citizen’s birth certificate and valid identity document or passport.

   • A notarized statement from the Romanian citizen regarding the name taken after the marriage, if not mentioned on the certificate.

   • A standardized declaration from City Hall stating the marriage certificate has not been previously transcribed.

   • Payment of an extrajudicial fee of 2 lei in the form of a fiscal stamp.

 

4. Verification Process

After submission:

1. The mayor sends the application to The Service for Population Records for verification.

2. This service checks the accuracy of the documentation and ensures the marriage was not previously registered in Romania.

 

5. Registration of Marriage in Romania

If all documentation is valid and no prior registration exists, the marriage will be officially recorded in the Romanian Civil Registries.

 

By following these steps, Romanian citizens can ensure their foreign marriage is legally recognized in Romania, fulfilling all legal requirements under matrimony Romania regulations. Whether you're navigating Romania marriage law for a civil registration or exploring additional options like a traditional Romanian wedding ceremony, understanding these requirements is key to a smooth process.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Marriage in Romania and Romanian Wedding & Matrimony

 

1. How long does it take to get married in Romania?

The process can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks, depending on document verification and scheduling.

 

2. Can same-sex couples marry in Romania?

As of now, same-sex marriages are not legally recognized in Romania.

 

3. Are there any residency requirements for foreigners?

Some localities may require temporary residency proof for foreign nationals. Check with the local City Hall.

 

4. Can I have a symbolic wedding in Romania?

Yes, symbolic weddings are popular for couples wanting a ceremony without legal formalities.

 

5. Where do I go to get married in Romania?

To get married in Romania, the ceremony must be conducted at the Register Office of the City Hall or Town Hall in the town or sector where one of the future spouses resides.

An application, along with specific documents, must be submitted to the Register Office. The Romanian wedding ceremony can only take place at least 10 days after the application dossier is filed. The 10-day waiting period serves to allow the city hall to announce your names and birthdays, along with your intention to marry, either on their website or on a community bulletin board. This process gives anyone who might have an objection—like a hidden spouse—the chance to voice their concerns. However, such objections are quite uncommon.

 

6. What is the legal age for marriage in Romania?

The legal age for marriage in Romania is 18 years old for both spouses. Minors who are 16 years old may be allowed to marry if certain conditions are met, such as obtaining a medical certificate, consent from parents or legal guardians, and approval from the Juvenile Court. To verify age, the future spouses must present valid identification, such as a passport, ID card, residency permit, or birth certificate.

 

7. What documents are required for marriage in Romania?

When submitting the application at the Register Office, both spouses must provide the following documents in original and copy: valid identification documents (e.g., passport, ID card, or residency permit), birth certificates, additional documentation may be required based on marital status and nationality (e.g., proof of celibacy or divorce certificates).

 

Conclusion on the Romanian Wedding: Marriage in Romania is a beautiful blend of legality, tradition, and celebration.

 

Marriage in Romania is a journey through love and tradition. Whether you are a foreigner planning to get married in Romania or simply curious about the charm of a traditional Romanian wedding, the country offers a wealth of experiences. From navigating Romania marriage law to exploring the unique rituals of matrimony Romania, every step is an opportunity to create lasting memories.

 

Understanding the requirements for marriage in Romania for foreigners is essential for a smooth process, and knowing the traditions of a Romanian wedding adds a personal and cultural touch to your special day. Whether you’re interested in a contract marriage in Romania to secure your financial future or a lavish celebration steeped in customs, Romania has something for everyone.

 

Let the magic of Romania matrimony transform your journey into an unforgettable event. Celebrate your love amidst Romania’s stunning landscapes, warm culture, and vibrant traditions, and make your wedding in Romania truly remarkable. Embrace the charm of Romanian matrimony and create memories to last a lifetime.

 

For further assistance and detailed guidance on any aspects related to franchise in Romania, feel free to get in touch with our lawyers at sorina@roadvocacy.ro or +40 744 65 09 50 or using the contact form on at www.roadvocacy.ro.

 

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The Lawyer's corner is nothing else but a legal blog dedicated only for entrepreneurs and investors in Romania 

 

Weekly usefull posts about the investors' first steps in Romania, from the perspective of practicing business law, servicing our clients' needs and litigation, written and published by a Romanian litigation lawyer with over 15 years experience

 

 

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