How to Get Married in Turkey 2025 | Marriage Conditions, Age, Documents & Cost. Marriage is both a personal and legal commitment. If you are planning to tie the knot in Turkey, it’s crucial to understand the procedures and legal requirements involved. This comprehensive guide explains how to get married in Turkey in 2025, including eligibility conditions, required documents, marriage age, duration of the process, and cost breakdowns.
- 1 What are the Marriage Conditions in Turkey?
- 2 What is the Marriage Age in Turkey?
- 3 What are the Conditions of Marriage in Turkey?
- 4 What Documents Are Required for Marriage in Turkey?
- 5 How Long Does it Take to Get Married in Turkey?
- 6 How Much Does it Cost to Marry in Turkey?
- 7 Can Foreigners Get Married in Turkey in 2025?
- 8 Additional Tips for a Smooth Marriage Process in Turkey
- 9 Conclusion
What are the Marriage Conditions in Turkey?
The marriage conditions in Turkey are regulated by the Turkish Civil Code. All marriages in Turkey must be conducted as civil marriages performed by authorized officials. Religious ceremonies are permitted but have no legal standing unless preceded by a civil marriage.
Eligibility Criteria
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old (or 17 with parental consent, or 16 with court approval).
- Both parties must be mentally capable of making decisions.
- Neither party should be currently married (monogamy is mandatory).
- There must be no close blood relation between the parties (e.g., siblings or parent-child).
What is the Marriage Age in Turkey?
The marriage age in Turkey is generally 18 years for both men and women. However, the Turkish Civil Code allows marriage at 17 with parental consent. In exceptional cases, individuals aged 16 can marry with court approval.
Legal vs. Religious Marriage Age
It is important to distinguish between cultural norms and legal standards. While some communities may hold religious ceremonies earlier, only the legally recognized civil marriage confers rights and protections under Turkish law.
What are the Conditions of Marriage in Turkey?
Beyond age, the conditions of marriage in Turkey include health screening and verification of eligibility. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Medical Examination
A mandatory pre-marital medical examination is required. This test typically screens for diseases such as hepatitis B/C, HIV, and thalassemia. Both parties must obtain a health report from an authorized health institution.
Freedom to Marry
Neither party should be under guardianship unless permitted by a court. If previously married, divorce must be finalized and registered in official records.
Consent
Consent must be given willingly and without coercion. Marriage under duress is not valid and can be annulled.
What Documents Are Required for Marriage in Turkey?
One of the most important steps in preparing for marriage is gathering the necessary paperwork. The documents required for marriage in Turkey may vary slightly depending on whether both partners are Turkish citizens or if one/both are foreigners.
For Turkish Citizens
- National identity card
- Residence certificate (ikametgah)
- Six passport-sized photos
- Medical certificate from authorized clinic
- Application form from municipality’s marriage office
For Foreigners
- Passport and valid visa or residence permit
- Certificate of No Impediment (from embassy/consulate)
- Birth certificate
- Divorce decree (if previously married)
- Sworn translation of foreign documents
- Apostille certification (if country is a Hague Convention signatory)
How Long Does it Take to Get Married in Turkey?
One of the common questions is how long does it take to get married in Turkey. The process is relatively quick once all documentation is in order.
Standard Timeline
- Gathering and translating documents: 3–7 days
- Medical tests and registration: 1–2 days
- Appointment scheduling: 1–2 weeks (depending on the city)
- Total estimated duration: 7 to 21 days
Certain municipalities offer expedited services or same-day marriages, particularly for foreigners.
How Much Does it Cost to Marry in Turkey?
The next vital consideration is how much does it cost to marry in Turkey. While costs vary depending on the city and the type of ceremony, a rough breakdown is as follows:
Can Foreigners Get Married in Turkey in 2025?
Yes. Foreigners can legally get married in Turkey as long as they meet Turkish marriage conditions and provide the required documentation. Turkey is a popular wedding destination for international couples due to its scenic locations and streamlined civil process.
Mixed Nationality Marriages
If one partner is Turkish and the other is a foreign national, the procedure is largely the same. However, the foreign partner must ensure their home country recognizes Turkish marriage certificates for legal validity abroad.
Same Nationality Foreign Couples
Foreign couples can marry in Turkey without residency, provided they submit documents verified by their respective consulates.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Marriage Process in Turkey
- Start gathering documents well in advance.
- Work with a translation office familiar with marriage procedures.
- Schedule your appointment early, especially during high wedding seasons (May–September).
- Always check with local municipal marriage offices for updated forms or new requirements.
Conclusion
Understanding how to get married in Turkey in 2025 can simplify the entire process and eliminate unnecessary delays. By complying with the legal marriage conditions in Turkey, verifying the marriage age in Turkey, and preparing all documents required for marriage in Turkey, couples can ensure a smooth and joyful marriage registration experience.
Whether you’re planning a destination wedding or settling down in Turkey, knowing how long does it take to get married in Turkey and how much does it cost to marry in Turkey are essential for practical planning. With the right preparation, your dream wedding in Turkey can become a reality.