MARRY IN TURKEY

Marrying in Turkey is a romantic and unforgettable experience for many foreigners. The country's diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to breathtaking mountains, along with its vibrant cities and luxurious resorts, offer a myriad of options for couples seeking the perfect wedding destination. Moreover, Turkey's rich history and culture make it an enchanting place to begin your journey as a married couple. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve deeper into the legal and practical aspects of marrying in Turkey, helping you plan your dream wedding.

Legal Requirements for Marrying in Turkey

Eligibility and Nationality

When it comes to marrying in Turkey, understanding the legal requirements is crucial:

Turkish Nationals and Foreigners

• Turkish nationals can marry foreigners, and two foreigners from different nationalities can also marry in Turkey.
• The marriage ceremony must be officiated by Turkish authorities, and religious weddings are not legally recognized.

Same Nationality Couples

• If both partners are foreigners and share the same nationality, they can choose to marry in either their country's Embassy or Consulate in Turkey or in Turkish Marriage Offices managed by local municipalities.

Conditions for a Valid Marriage

For your marriage to be legally valid in Turkey, specific conditions must be met:

Capacity to Marry

• Individuals must possess the mental capacity to make sound judgments, and mental illness can be an impediment to marriage.
• The minimum legal age to marry in Turkey is 18 years old.

Absence of Consanguinity

• Turkey prohibits marriage between close relatives.

Monogamy

• Turkish family law upholds the principle of monogamy. This means a person cannot enter into a second marriage before terminating the first legally.

Waiting Period

• For divorced women, there's a mandatory waiting period of 300 days (nine months) from the date of dissolution before they can remarry. The divorce decree may specify a waiting period during which the spouse cannot remarry.

Sickness

• Certain illnesses, such as epilepsy and hysteria, can be a barrier to marriage.

Required Documents for Marriage

To ensure a smooth marriage process in Turkey, you'll need to gather the following documents:

• Petition of Marriage (Evlenme Beyannamesi): Both the bride and groom must personally file a marriage petition at the Municipality (Belediye) where they intend to marry.
• Passport and/or Birth Certificate: These documents must be translated into Turkish by relevant authorities, such as the Turkish Embassy in your home country or a certified notary in Turkey.
• Health Certificate: Obtain this certificate from a state medical institution in Turkey (Saglik Ocagi or Devlet Hastanesi). Private hospital or clinic reports will not be accepted.
• Passport-sized Photos: Provide six recent passport-sized photos for both the bride and groom.
• Certificate of Capacity to Marry (Certificate of Celibacy): This certificate, indicating your single, divorced, or widowed status, must be obtained from the Civil Status Register in your home country. If issued abroad, it should be certified by the Turkish Consulate or Embassy or have an apostil. Additionally, it must be translated into Turkish and notarized.
• Accommodation Document: If both partners are foreigners, request a letter from the hotel where you're staying, detailing your duration of stay and departure date.

Wedding Venues and Celebrations

Turkey offers a plethora of stunning venues for your wedding ceremony and celebration. Whether you prefer a beachfront wedding on the Mediterranean coast, a fairytale-like ceremony in the picturesque Cappadocia region, or an elegant event in Istanbul's historic landmarks, you'll find the perfect backdrop for your special day.

Conclusion

Marrying in Turkey is not only a legal process but also an opportunity to experience a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. With the right documentation and preparations, you can make your dream of a Turkish wedding a reality. Cherish the memories of your special day against the backdrop of this enchanting country, and let your love story be enriched by the magic of Turkey.