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Marriage in Turkey for Foreigners: Requirements, Documents, and More
Getting married in Turkey is possible not only for Turkish citizens but also for foreigners. Both a foreigner marrying a Turkish citizen and two foreigners marrying in Turkey are legally recognized. All marriages must be conducted under Turkish civil law, which ensures international validity. Thanks to the apostille system, a marriage in Turkey can be recognized across member countries without complicated extra procedures. Here are the main conditions every couple must meet under marriage rules in Turkey:
Age Limit - Both individuals must be at least 18 years old to marry.
Mental Health Condition - Couples must be in sound mental health. The law is clear: a person deemed unfit cannot marry.
No Close Blood Relation - Marriage between close relatives is strictly forbidden under Turkey marriage laws.
Ban on Polygamy - Marriage Turkey foreigners procedures also require that both parties be single, since polygamy is not allowed.
Waiting Period for Divorced Women - A divorced woman must wait 300 days before remarrying, unless a court decision removes this waiting time.
Marriage Documents - All marriage in Turkey documents—such as birth certificates, passports, and certificates of celibacy—must be gathered, translated if necessary, and submitted to the marriage office.
Civil Marriage Requirement - Only civil marriage in Turkey for foreigners is legally valid. Religious ceremonies alone do not provide legal recognition.
How to Get Married in Turkey as a Foreigner
Foreign nationals can marry in Turkey as long as they comply with the Civil Code. They must provide proof of single status and meet the age and health conditions. The following sections explain the essential marriage procedures for foreigners in Turkey.
Documents Needed for Marriage in Turkey?
Paperwork is the backbone of any legal process, and marriage Turkey foreigners procedures are no different. The documents required for civil marriage in Turkey usually include:
- Passports translated into Turkish and notarized
- Birth certificates
- Certificate of no impediment (celibacy certificate)
- 4–5 biometric photographs
- Divorce or death certificate if previously married
- Health report from a state hospital or authorized health center
All paperwork must be officially translated into Turkish, notarized, and, if issued abroad, certified with an apostille stamp. This ensures that the marriage documents in Turkey are internationally valid.
Is a Health Report Required to Get Married in Turkey?
Yes. A health report is mandatory in Turkey. Couples must undergo a medical examination at a state hospital or authorized clinic. Tests include HIV, hepatitis B and C, syphilis, and a blood test before marriage in Turkey to determine blood type and detect hereditary risks. This rule is meant to protect both spouses and any future children’s health.
How to Apply for Marriage in Turkey?
The application is straightforward:
- Both partners prepare the required paperwork.
- They apply together at the local municipality’s marriage office (Evlendirme Dairesi).
- Applications must be made in person; proxy marriages are not allowed.
- Once documents are submitted, the couple receives a wedding date.
Depending on the municipality, the process may take from a few days to two weeks.
How Do Two Foreigners Get Married in Turkey?
When both spouses are foreign nationals, the procedure depends on their nationalities. If they share the same nationality, they can marry at their embassy or consulate in Turkey (if their consulate performs marriages) or at the local Turkish marriage office. If they are from different countries, then only Turkish civil authorities can officiate the marriage. In every case, a foreign marriage in Turkey is valid internationally as long as the couple follows Turkish regulations.
Can I Get Turkish Citizenship Through Marriage?
Marriage to a Turkish citizen does not grant automatic citizenship. However, foreign spouses are entitled to apply for family residence permits after the wedding. After three years of continuous and genuine marriage, they may apply for nationality.
The Turkey citizenship by marriage application includes interviews, home visits, and background checks. So while citizenship by marriage in Turkey is possible, it is not immediate. Couples must understand that Turkey citizenship by marriage is a process requiring time and official approval.
What is a Marriage Contract in Turkey?
A marriage contract (evlilik sözleşmesi) is optional in Turkey. It does not regulate personal issues such as loyalty, custody, or alimony but focuses only on property regimes between spouses. Couples may choose between systems such as community of property, separation of property, or other legally recognized regimes. These agreements must be prepared in Turkish and signed before a notary. If one spouse does not speak Turkish, a sworn translator must be present. This is often an overlooked but important detail for foreign marriage in Turkey cases.
What are the Marriage Costs in Turkey?
The cost of civil marriage in Turkey is relatively affordable. The official fee ranges from 70 to 150 USD, depending on the municipality and whether the ceremony is held on weekdays or weekends.
Beyond this, expenses vary based on how couples want to celebrate. Some prefer a simple municipal hall wedding, while others go for lavish ceremonies in hotels, seaside resorts, or historic venues. Naturally, legal requirements and associated costs for marriage in Turkey rise when choosing more luxurious options. Seasonal demand also affects prices and availability, so couples should plan ahead.
Planning Your Wedding in Turkey
Turkey offers a variety of wedding styles, from budget-friendly celebrations to glamorous luxury events. Cities like Istanbul and Antalya stand out with their wide range of venues, making it easy for couples to choose the perfect setting for their special day.
Affordable Options: Local wedding halls and open-air gardens are ideal for couples on a budget. Popular across cities, these venues create a warm atmosphere and allow large gatherings at reasonable prices.
Luxury Options: High-end hotels, seaside resorts, and historic venues in places like Antalya and Istanbul provide a glamorous backdrop. Many include professional planning services and stunning views. Discover more at top hotels in Turkey.
FAQs
Q: Is there a Marriage Visa Turkey?
A: No separate “marriage visa” exists, but foreign spouses can apply for a family residence permit after registering their marriage in Turkey.
Q: Are there specific documents needed for marriage in Turkey for divorced or widowed foreigners?
A: Yes. In addition to the standard documents needed for marriage in Turkey, divorced individuals must present a divorce decree, while widowed individuals must provide a death certificate of the former spouse.
Q: What are common Turkey marriage traditions?
A: Weddings usually combine civil ceremonies with cultural customs like henna nights, traditional dances, and gift-giving rituals. These Turkey marriage traditions vary by region but always emphasize joy and hospitality.
Q: Is my marriage in Turkey valid abroad?
A: Yes. Because Turkey is part of international conventions, marriages conducted by Turkish authorities are recognized abroad, especially with an apostille. Still, it is wise to register the marriage with your home country’s consulate.
Q: Do religious ceremonies have legal validity in Turkey?
A: No. Only civil marriages are legally binding. Religious weddings, such as an imam ceremony, can be held for cultural or personal reasons, but have no legal effect.
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Created: 04.09.2025, 16.50Updated: 04.09.2025, 14.58
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