Getting Married in Monaco: procedures and requirements

Marriage in Monaco

Civil marriage in Monaco is conducted by the Municipal Administration. Monaco recognizes civil marriage as the legally binding ceremony; religious ceremonies are separate and have no legal effect. Both spouses must be at least 18 years old and neither previously married, divorced, or widowed without proper documentation.

Documentation Requirements

Both spouses need valid identification (passport or national identity card), birth certificates, and proof of residence in Monaco or France. If either spouse was previously married, original divorce decrees or death certificates are required. For foreign nationals, documents must be either original or apostille-authenticated copies.

Documents in foreign languages require certified French translations. Medical certificates confirming fitness for marriage are not required in Monaco, unlike some European countries.

Pre-Marriage Application

Submit applications at the Municipal Administration at least one month before the intended marriage date. Officials verify documentation, publish banns (public notice of intent to marry), and confirm there are no legal impediments. This publication period allows anyone to raise objections.

Processing typically takes four to six weeks from initial application to marriage approval.

The Ceremony

Civil ceremonies are conducted by authorized municipal officers at City Hall. Ceremonies are brief, formal proceedings conducted in French. Witnesses are required—typically two individuals unrelated to the couple. Religious elements are not included in civil ceremonies.

Non-residents can marry in Monaco if one resident family member sponsors the application, though availability may be limited. Couples seeking religious ceremonies must arrange these separately through appropriate religious authorities.

Marriage Certificate

Official marriage certificates are issued immediately after the ceremony. Request multiple copies for passport updates, name changes, and international recognition. Some countries require apostille certification for recognition.

Name Changes and Legal Status

Married couples may or may not change surnames depending on French law and personal preference. Couples can combine surnames, retain individual names, or adopt the spouse's surname. These choices must be specified before the ceremony.

See also: Birth Registration, Postal Services