Getting married to a foreigner in Poland is becoming increasingly common. Many couples choose to have their wedding in our country, so it is worth knowing what formalities must be completed to ensure the ceremony goes smoothly. Find out what documents are required, when court permission is needed, and how the procedure for obtaining citizenship works after marrying a Polish citizen.
Where Can You Get Married to a Foreigner in Poland?
A marriage with a foreigner in Poland can be concluded:
• before a Polish Civil Registry Office (USC), or
• at the embassy or consulate of the foreigner’s country of origin.
If the couple plans to live together in Poland, the best solution is a civil marriage at a Polish USC.
Why? Because marriage certificates issued by embassies may cause difficulties when transcribing a foreign marriage certificate into Polish civil registry records. In some cases, the head of the USC may even refuse to register such a certificate.
When Is Court Permission Required for a Marriage with a Foreigner?
Court approval may be required when:
• the foreigner’s home country does not issue the documents required in Poland, or
• there are difficulties in obtaining them (e.g., due to political circumstances).
In such cases, the foreigner may submit an application to the district court, which may exempt them from the obligation to provide certain documents to the USC. Only after obtaining this permission will, it be possible to conclude the marriage in Poland.
What Documents Are Needed to Marry a Foreigner in Poland?
To conclude a marriage at a Polish Civil Registry Office, a foreigner must prepare the following documents:
• a valid passport and residence card,
• a certificate of legal capacity to marry (confirmation of no legal obstacles),
• a shortened birth certificate with a sworn translation into Polish,
• a document confirming marital status:
o for divorced persons – a marriage certificate with an annotation of divorce,
o for widowed persons – a shortened death certificate of the spouse.
All documents issued in a foreign language must be translated by a sworn translator.
Deadlines and Formalities Before the Wedding
A marriage with a foreigner can be performed at any Civil Registry Office in Poland, regardless of place of residence.
During the first visit to the USC, the couple submits the required declarations and provides the necessary documents. These declarations are valid for 6 months.
After submitting them and once the documents have been verified by the USC, the wedding date can be scheduled.
If the foreigner does not speak Polish, a sworn translator must be present at the ceremony.
Marriage to a Foreigner and Polish Citizenship
It is important to remember that marriage to a Polish citizen does not automatically grant Polish citizenship.
However, a foreigner who:
• has been married to a Polish citizen for at least 3 years, and
• legally resides in Poland (on the basis of a temporary residence permit for family reunification with a Polish citizen),
may apply for Polish citizenship granted by the President of the Republic of Poland.
Civil Marriage with a Foreigner – Key Principles
Polish law guarantees the freedom to enter into marriage, but each party must meet the requirements arising from both Polish law and the law of the foreigner’s home country.
Therefore, before setting the wedding date, it is advisable to check the regulations in the future spouse’s country of origin.
Summary – Marriage with a Foreigner in Poland
A marriage with a foreigner in Poland is a beautiful event, but it requires proper preparation.
Make sure to arrange:
• all required documents,
• sworn translations,
• any necessary court permission.
This way, the ceremony will proceed without complications, and you will be able to fully enjoy your special day.
If you have any questions contact us – office@halasiwspolnicy.pl