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Civil Marriage Abroad: A Guide for Lebanese Couples

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Since civil marriage isn’t allowed in Lebanon, many Lebanese couples look abroad to tie the knot. The most popular destinations include Georgia, the UAE, and Cyprus. After getting married abroad, couples must submit their marriage certificate to the Lebanese Ministry of Interior’s Personal Status Department for official recognition.

This article will compare the civil marriage process in Georgia, the UAE, and Cyprus, and explain why Georgia and the UAE may be better options than Cyprus.

civil marriage

Civil Marriage in Cyprus for Lebanese Couples

Cyprus is often not the first choice for Lebanese couples due to its complicated and lengthy process. Here are the steps required:

Document Requirements

  1. Civil Registry Records: Couples must provide two copies of each of their original civil registry records, both for themselves and their partner. This can be time-consuming.
  2. Family Registry Records: Similarly, two copies of each of the original family registry records are required.
  3. Translation: All documents must be translated into English by a sworn translator, which can be costly.

Visa Requirements

  1. Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay.
  2. Visa Application Form: Complete a Schengen visa application form with accurate details.
  3. Photos: Two passport-sized photos meeting specific requirements.
  4. Travel Insurance: Medical insurance with a minimum coverage of $32,800 is needed, which can be expensive in Lebanese pounds.
  5. Proof of Accommodation: Provide evidence of where you’ll stay in Cyprus.
  6. Proof of Financial Means: Show you can support yourself during your stay with bank statements or other financial documents.
  7. Return Ticket: A return or onward ticket is also required.
Lebanese civil marriages

Conditions for Civil Marriage

  • Both parties must be at least 18 years old and unmarried.
  • Divorced individuals must provide a divorce certificate, and widows must provide a death certificate of their former spouse.
  • The couple must give a notice of marriage to the local civil registry office at least three days before the wedding.
  • The marriage ceremony must be conducted by a registered marriage officer and registered with the local civil registry office.
  • After submitting the application, the marriage can take place after a minimum of 15 days but must occur within three months.

Civil Marriage in the UAE for Lebanese Couples

The UAE has recently become a more viable option for Lebanese couples, thanks to new laws.

Document Requirements:

  1. Marriage Form: A completed and signed marriage form is required.
  2. Passport Copies: Provide copies of both parties’ passports.
  3. Proof of Divorce or Death: If one partner was previously married, they must show proof that the marriage is dissolved.

Conditions for Civil Marriage:

  • Both partners must be non-Muslim and at least 21 years old.
  • One partner must be a UAE resident.
  • The couple or their authorized representative must appear in court with their original IDs and proof that they are unmarried.

Civil Marriage in Georgia for Lebanese Couples

Georgia is the most straightforward and affordable option for Lebanese couples.

Document Requirements

  1. Valid Passport: Both partners need a valid passport.
  2. Translation of Passport: If the passports aren’t in Georgian, they need to be translated and notarized.
  3. Certificate of Divorce or Death: If previously married, a divorce or death certificate must be provided, translated, and notarized.

Conditions for Civil Marriage

  • There’s no residency requirement; couples from any country can marry in Georgia.
  • Both partners must be at least 18 years old. If under 18, parental consent is needed.
  • Both partners must verbally agree to marry at the time of the ceremony.

Georgia’s quick and easy process, with no waiting period and minimal paperwork, makes it the most appealing option for Lebanese couples.

Visa Costs Comparison for Lebanese 

  • Cyprus: $100
  • UAE: $193
  • Georgia: Free, with a 1-year visa-free entry for Lebanese citizens.

Hotel Booking Charges

Georgia offers the most affordable hotel rates, followed by the UAE, with Cyprus being the most expensive.

Wedding Destinations Comparison

  • Budget: Georgia is the most budget-friendly, with a more traditional and cultural experience.
  • Style: The UAE and Cyprus offer modern and luxurious wedding options.
  • Climate: Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate, the UAE is hot and humid, while Georgia has a more varied climate.
  • Activities: The UAE has diverse activities like shopping and theme parks, Cyprus is known for its beaches, and Georgia offers cultural and historical experiences.

Comparison of Wedding Packages in Cyprus, UAE, and Georgia

When it comes to wedding packages, Cyprus is the most expensive option, with costs ranging from $11,000 to $17,700. This higher price reflects the complexity and formality of the process in Cyprus, where extensive documentation and waiting periods are required. 

civil wedding

In contrast, the UAE offers more affordable packages, starting at $1,145, catering to couples seeking a modern and luxurious experience without the hefty price tag. 

However, Georgia stands out as the most budget-friendly choice. The “Cute Marriage” package in Georgia costs just $1,214 and includes full wedding planning support, making it an ideal option for Lebanese couples looking for an economical and hassle-free civil marriage. 

Georgia’s low costs, simple procedures, and quick process make it an attractive alternative to the more expensive and complicated options in Cyprus and the UAE.

Can tourists get married in Georgia?

Yes, tourists can legally get married in Georgia. Find out more about the process here.

Can you get married on the same day in Georgia?

Yes, it’s possible to get married on the same day in Georgia.

What is the best country for Lebanese couples to have a civil marriage?

Georgia is the most affordable and picturesque option for Lebanese couples seeking a civil marriage.

Is there a waiting period to get married in Georgia?

No, there is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia.

Key Takeaway

For Lebanese couples seeking a civil marriage, Georgia stands out as the most economical and straightforward choice. The process is quick, with minimal documentation, no visa costs, and the lowest marriage fees. In contrast, Cyprus requires lengthy procedures and significant expenses, while the UAE offers a reasonable middle ground.

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