A Guide to Marrying a Greek Citizen

6 min read

Marrying a Greek citizen can be a wonderful, meaningful, and unforgettable experience. With Greece’s stunning natural beauty and rich culture, it’s no wonder many people dream of a wedding in this country.

However, before taking this serious step, it’s crucial to understand the necessary procedures and requirements. This will ensure your marriage proceeds smoothly and is legally valid.

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Required Documents

marrying a greek citizen

Before starting the marriage process, you need to prepare a number of important documents. Here is a list of documents typically required for both Indonesian and Greek citizens.

1. For Indonesian Citizens:

Valid Passport: Your passport must have at least six months of validity from the planned wedding date. It is the primary proof of identity for international purposes.
Birth Certificate: This is required to verify your identity and birth status. This document must be translated into Greek and legalized by the relevant authorities in Indonesia and Greece.
Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (SKBU): This document proves you are not currently married. The SKBU also needs to be translated and legalized.
Copy of KTP (Indonesian ID Card): Even though the marriage is abroad, a copy of your KTP is still required as a supporting document.
Certificate of No Impediment (CONI): This document states that there are no legal obstacles for you to marry in Greece. This form must be completed accurately and signed.
Payment Receipt: Obtaining a CONI requires a specific fee, and you must include a proof of payment with your application.
Documents of Previous Marital Status: If you were previously married, documents such as a divorce certificate or a previous spouse’s death certificate may be required.

2. For Greek Citizens:

Valid Passport: The Greek partner must also have a passport with a minimum of six months of validity.
Birth Certificate: The partner’s birth certificate may need to be translated and legalized if requested by the local authorities.
Marital Status Certificate: If the partner was previously married, documents such as a divorce certificate or a previous spouse’s death certificate must be included.

Steps for CONI Application

First, prepare all documents, including your passport, birth certificate, SKBU, KTP copy, and the CONI application form. Make sure these documents have been translated into Greek and legalized by the authorities. Next, fill out the form with accurate information, including personal data, previous marital status (if applicable), and information about your Greek partner.

Once all documents are ready, submit the CONI application to the Greek embassy or consulate in Indonesia. It’s best to make an appointment beforehand to ensure a smooth process. Find out the required fee for the CONI and make the payment according to the embassy or consulate’s regulations.

During the submission, the embassy or consulate will verify your documents to ensure there are no legal obstacles. This process can take time, so be patient. If your documents are approved, you can pick up the CONI. This document is a crucial requirement for getting married in Greece.

Marriage Procedures in Greece

Once the CONI and other documents are ready, you can proceed with the marriage process in Greece. Here are the steps:

Choose a Venue: You can choose your wedding location in Greece. There are various beautiful places like Santorini, Mykonos, or Rhodes. Select a location that fits your taste and budget.
Consult with Local Authorities: The city hall or local government in the wedding location will provide information on additional requirements. Make sure you consult with them before planning your trip.
Residency Requirement: You typically have to stay in Greece for a minimum of 8 days before the wedding. Submit the marriage application to the local city hall a few weeks before the desired date, along with documents such as the CONI, passport, and birth certificate.
Health Check-up: Some regions may require a health check-up for both parties. If requested, undergo the examination and include the results in your application.
Approval and Scheduling: The city hall will review your documents and, if all requirements are met, will approve and schedule the wedding date.
Type of Ceremony: In Greece, both civil and religious marriages are equally recognized. You are free to choose a civil ceremony, a religious one, or a combination of both, as long as they comply with local law.

Greek Marriage Law

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Greek marriage law is quite clear and includes several important points. Both the man and woman must be at least 18 years old to marry, unless there is a court order for those under that age. Greek law recognizes civil and religious marriages equally, so you are free to choose. Non-resident foreign nationals are free to marry there.

Post-Marriage Residence Permit

After getting married, you can apply for a residence permit at the Decentralized Administration Office in the region where you live in Greece. This process can be time-consuming, so prepare your documents well.

It is important to understand that marrying a Greek citizen does not automatically grant you citizenship. You need to live in Greece for a minimum of three years and meet other requirements to apply for citizenship. Furthermore, understanding the basics of Greek culture and language can be very helpful in the process of adaptation and citizenship application, especially if you want to live there long-term.

Marrying a Greek citizen is a big step that requires careful planning. By preparing documents, following the CONI application procedures, understanding marriage law, and knowing the residence permit rules, you can ensure your marriage is smooth and legal. In addition, mental and emotional readiness is also important to start a new life in Greece. Hopefully, this guide helps you realize your dream wedding with your Greek partner!

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