Marrying a foreigner requires a significant degree of preparation since Czech Republic does not accept documents issued by certain countries. In that case it is necessary that legal verification of relevant documents be performed. This can be done either at an embassy of Czech Republic or ministry of foreign affairs of Czech Republic and has to be completed before the marriage to a foreigner can take place.
Documents needed
With regards to paragraphs no. 33 and 34 of law 301/2000, partners intending to marry shall present to the registry office the “Marriage form” together with the following documents:
- Birth certificate
- Valid ID (passport, driving licence, personal ID)
- Confirmation of legal eligibility to enter marriage – (this
cannot be older than 6 month with regards to the intended day of marriage) - Confirmation of the place of residence and marital status
- Death certificate of a deceised partner in case of widows
- Confirmation of divorce if one of the partners has been divorced
- Legal confirmation of residence permit in Czech Republic no
older than 7 days
All the above documents must be transtated to Czech language by agency certified for legal translations.
Fees – Marriage to a foreigner
Partners who do not have permanent residence in Czech Republic are obliged to pay a legal fee of CZK 3000. If one of the partners does have permanent residence in Czech Republic the fee is 2000. The fee is payable before the marriage in cash or by postal order.
Presence of an interpreter
In case of marriage with a foreigner who does not understand Czech, presence of an interpreter becomes necessary. Without his presence the marriage cannot be performed. The presence of an interpreter must be communicated to the registry officer in the process of presenting the relevant legal documents.
The interpreter must be appointed by chairman of the court. If it is not so he can take an oath with the responsible registry officer. The interpreter must verify his identity with the registry officer and sign the certificate of marriage.
Detailed information about marriage to a foreigner can be found on the website of the Czech ministry of interior.
