Getting Married in Ukraine as a Foreigner
Finding love knows no borders, and Ukraine has become an increasingly popular destination for couples seeking a unique and memorable wedding experience. If you're a foreigner planning to tie the knot in this enchanting country, it's important to understand the legal requirements and procedures involved. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of getting married in Ukraine, whether you and your partner are both foreigners or if one of you is a Ukrainian citizen. Additionally, we'll explore the significance of a marriage contract in Ukraine.
Getting Married in Ukraine as Foreigners
If you and your partner are both foreigners, the process of getting married in Ukraine is relatively straightforward. Here are the key steps and documents you'll need:
- Legal Status: Ensure that both you and your partner have legal status in Ukraine, either as temporary residents or on a valid visa.
- Affidavit of Single Status: Obtain an affidavit from your respective embassies or consulates in Ukraine, affirming that you are both single and eligible for marriage. This document should be notarized and translated into Ukrainian.
- Translated Documents: Prepare and translate your passports, birth certificates, and any divorce or death certificates if applicable. These translations must be notarized and certified by an authorized translator in Ukraine.
- Wedding Ceremony: Choose a venue for your wedding ceremony and make the necessary arrangements. You can opt for a civil ceremony at a local registrar's office or a religious ceremony performed by a recognized religious institution.
- Witnesses: Arrange for two witnesses to be present during the ceremony. They must have valid identification documents and be at least 18 years old.
- Marriage Registration: After the ceremony, you must register your marriage at the local registrar's office. Submit all the required documents, including the translated and notarized versions, and pay the registration fee.
Getting Married in Ukraine with a Ukrainian Citizen
If one of the couple is a Ukrainian citizen, the process of getting married in Ukraine may have additional requirements. Here's what you need to know:
- Document Verification: The Ukrainian citizen must provide proof of their Ukrainian citizenship, such as a passport or national identification card.
- Foreigner's Documents: The foreign partner should follow the same steps mentioned earlier, including obtaining an affidavit of single status and translating necessary documents.
- Marriage Contract: Now, let's explore the importance of a marriage contract in Ukraine.
Related article: Concluding a marriage contract when getting married in Ukraine
The Significance of a Marriage Contract in Ukraine
A marriage contract, also known as a prenuptial agreement, is a legal document that defines the financial and property rights of both partners before and during their marriage. In Ukraine, a marriage contract can provide clarity and security in various aspects, such as:
- Property Rights: The contract can outline the ownership and division of assets acquired before and during the marriage, protecting the interests of both partners.
- Financial Obligations: It can specify financial responsibilities, such as the management of joint bank accounts, debt obligations, and financial support agreements.
- Inheritance: A marriage contract can address inheritance matters, ensuring that each partner's assets are allocated according to their wishes.
- Children and Custody: The contract can establish provisions regarding child custody, visitation rights, and financial support in the event of separation or divorce.
Getting married in Ukraine as a foreigner involves fulfilling specific legal requirements and procedures, whether both partners are foreigners or one is a Ukrainian citizen. By following the outlined steps and preparing the necessary documents, you can navigate the process smoothly and celebrate your love in this beautiful country. Additionally, considering a marriage contract in Ukraine can provide an added layer of security and peace of mind, protecting the interests of both partners.
Our company offers a wide range of legal services for foreigners in Ukraine. We understand that the issue of marriage is most often followed by the issue of obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine. If this is your option, we can offer several options, depending on your situation.
Option 1. If you want to get married in Ukraine and get a residence permit based on marriage.
In this case, we offer the following services (we give an approximate cost for your convenience):
- Registration of an invitation from a legal entity for 2-4 weeks for a foreigner to enter Ukraine (the need for this step directly depends on the country of residence of a foreigner);
- Organization and support of marriage in Ukraine, including urgent;
- Preparation of a package of documents for leaving and entering Ukraine, as well as obtaining a D visa (including an invitation from the bride);
- Registration of insurance for 1 year, including against COVID, which is a prerequisite for obtaining a D visa and subsequent registration of a residence permit by marriage;
- Full guaranteed support for obtaining a residence permit by marriage (after returning with a D visa).
Option 2. If you want to have time to get married in Ukraine within the prescribed period of stay without further registration of a residence permit.
In this case, we offer you a slightly reduced block of services:
- Registration of an invitation from a legal entity for 2-4 weeks for guaranteed entry of a foreigner into Ukraine (the need for this step directly depends on the country of residence of a foreigner);
- Organization and support of marriage in Ukraine, including urgent;
- If necessary, we advise on the legalization of a Ukrainian citizen in the country of residence of a foreign spouse.
Find out the cost of services from our specialists.
