CIVIL WEDDING IN POLAND FOR FOREIGNERS: COMPLET GUIDE TO DOCUMENTS AND FORMALITIES

Ready to get legally Wedding in Poland? I explain everything you need to know to arrange a civil wedding ceremony in Poland, from venues to documents – and what actually happens on the day.

Planning a wedding in Poland can be a magical experience, especially for foreigners looking to tie the knot in this beautiful country. A civil wedding in Poland is a straightforward process, but it requires some preparation and understanding of the local formalities. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about having a civil wedding in Poland, including the necessary documents, formalities, and what the ceremony looks like.

WHAT IS A CIVIL WEDDING CEREMONY IN POLAND?

Civil ceremonies are a popular choice for couples who are getting married. Performed by a government official called a registrar, these ceremonies are legally binding but don’t include any religious elements. For many couples, a civil ceremony serves as the main event of their wedding celebration, offering the opportunity to personalise the proceedings with music selections and decorative elements.

DOCUMENTS FOR CIVIL WEDDING IN POLAND

To have a civil wedding in Poland, both parties need to provide specific documents. Here is a list of the essential documents required:

1. Valid Passports: Both parties must present their valid passports.
2. Birth Certificates: Original birth certificates with an official translation into Polish.
3. Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage: This document confirms that there are no legal obstacles to the marriage. It must be translated into Polish and authenticated. This is a document confirming that foreigners can enter into a marriage in accordance with the law of their country of origin (a document confirming that they have the legal capacity to enter into a marriage) – such a document should be issued by the authorities of their country.
4. Divorce Decree or Death Certificate: If applicable, proof of termination of previous marriages must be provided.
5. Residence Permit or Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need to show a valid residence permit or visa.
6. Application Form: Completed and signed application form for the civil wedding.

Usually the third of the above documents (i.e. Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage :) turns out to be the most difficult to obtain. The reason is that many countries do not issue such a document at all, and even if they do, there are often obstacles that can prevent a foreigner from obtaining it. In the event that you cannot obtain a document confirming your capacity to enter into marriage in Poland, the only way to do so is to apply to the Polish family court for an exemption from the obligation to submit such a document. If the court considers the circumstances justified, you will be able to enter into marriage without having to obtain this document.

FORMALITIES FOR WEDDING IN POLAND

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you need to follow these steps:

1. Submit Documents: Submit all required documents to the local Civil Registry Office (Urząd Stanu Cywilnego) at least one month and one day before the planned wedding date.
2. Schedule the Ceremony: Choose a date and time for your wedding ceremony. Note that civil weddings in Poland can be conducted from Monday to Saturday. Remember also that Civil Registry Offices do not perform weddings on public holidays.
3. Pay the Fees: There are nominal fees associated with the civil wedding, including the cost of the ceremony and any translations or legalizations of documents. Civil weddings conducted outside the Civil Registry Office building, which are additionally payable. The additional office fee for such an outdoor civil wedding is PLN 1,000. You should also remember to rent a place for the outdoor ceremony, for which you will probably also have to pay. You need to book your wedding venue first, then registrar second. Finding the ideal venue where you’ll say “I do” is your first priority. Once you have this locked in, then start booking your register (you will need to contact the registry office closest to your chosen wedding location).
4. Attend the Pre-Wedding Meeting: You may be required to attend a pre-wedding meeting at the Civil Registry Office to confirm the details and finalize the paperwork.

WHAT DOES A CIVIL WEDDING LOOK LIKE IN POLAND?

A civil wedding in Poland is a formal yet intimate ceremony conducted by a registrar at the Civil Registry Office or another approved location. The ceremony typically includes:

1. Introduction by the Registrar: The registrar welcomes the couple and the guests, explaining the legal significance of the marriage.
2. Exchange of Vows: The couple exchanges vows, expressing their commitment to each other.
3. Signing the Marriage Certificate: The couple, along with two witnesses, signs the marriage certificate, making the union legally binding.
4. Exchange of Rings: Although not mandatory, many couples choose to exchange rings during the ceremony.
5. Official Pronouncement: The registrar officially pronounces the couple as married.

The entire ceremony usually lasts about 15-20 minutes. After the ceremony, the newlyweds receive an official marriage certificate.

ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR FOREIGNERS

• Language: If you or your partner do not speak Polish, it is advisable to have a translator present during the ceremony.
• Legal Assistance: Consider seeking legal assistance to ensure all documents are correctly prepared and submitted.
• Venue Options: While the Civil Registry Office is the most common venue, some couples opt for other approved locations, such as historic buildings or scenic outdoor settings.

HOW CAN I PERSONALIZE MY CIVIL WEDDING?

Your civil ceremony is more than just the legalities – it’s a chance to celebrate you and your partner’s love story in a way that reflects your personalities. While it is mandatory to say a standard vow, the beauty of civil ceremonies is the ability to personalize them. In addition to the traditional vows that are required, enhance the ceremony with your own heartfelt vows. This is your chance to express your love in a way that is uniquely yours! Just remember to check with the registrar beforehand to ensure your personal vows can be added (Important – not all civil registrars in Poland agree to this, please remember that). Music is also a powerful tool for creating the desired atmosphere. Choose songs that have special meaning to you as a couple, perhaps a song from your first dance or a song that reflects the emotions of the ceremony. Finally, transforming your civil ceremony space into your dream backdrop ((flowers, decorations, lighting)) is a great way to personalize your ceremony.

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CONCLUSION

Having a civil wedding in Poland as a foreigner is a beautiful and memorable experience. By understanding the required documents and formalities, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free process. Whether you choose a traditional ceremony at the Civil Registry Office or a picturesque outdoor venue, your wedding in Poland will be a cherished moment in your life.

WEDDING PLANNER: DOROTA NOWAKOWSKA WEDDINGS / VENUE: VILLA LOVE