Comparison of marriage registration in Georgia and the Czech Republic

Marriage registration in Georgia and the Czech Republic follows completely different procedures, especially when the newlyweds are foreigners. The wedding ceremony in Georgia is characterized by extreme simplicity, requiring no certificates of marital status, and involves no bureaucratic hurdles, long waiting periods, or substantial financial expenses. Passports and mutual consent are sufficient, and the ceremony can take place on the very day of application. In the Czech Republic, as in all other European Union countries, one must be patient, as it is necessary to collect a vast number of certificates, wait several weeks or even months, and pay a significant amount of money. Below is more detail on how much easier it is for foreigners to conclude a marriage in Georgia than in the Czech Republic.

Georgia provides foreign citizens with the opportunity to officially register their marriage in the shortest possible time and with a minimum package of documents. The procedure is recognized as legal in many countries, is transparent, and, most importantly, fully complies with international standards; therefore, the young family will not encounter any issues with their documents. For marriage registration, it is sufficient for the newlyweds to have valid international passports. The promptness of the procedure is particularly pleasing, as registration here is possible on the day of application. Georgia remains one of the few countries where prior appointment with a long waiting period is not required. This allows the ceremony to be conducted as quickly as possible.

Another advantage is that the state provides a visa-free regime for citizens of many countries, which also simplifies the process of legalizing the relationship and makes it significantly cheaper. Newlyweds get a unique opportunity to come to Georgia and register their marriage on the same day. It is also convenient that both a standard registration at the registry office and a solemn ceremony with an individual script, a toastmaster (tamada), and adherence to national traditions are possible. Furthermore, the wedding can be conducted not only in the official Georgian language but also in Russian, English, and other languages upon the request of the couple.

Who Marriage in Georgia is Suited For:

• Couples facing legal or administrative difficulties in their home country.
• Newlyweds wishing to register their marriage quickly, officially, without complex procedures and high expenses.
• People dreaming of an extraordinary celebration.
• Those who need a document that is recognized worldwide.

In Georgia, a wedding ceremony is not just about the absence of bureaucracy and affordable prices: it provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the wedding in an incredible setting. Only in this state can lovers choose from a wide variety of locations—from majestic mountains to vineyard valleys, from ancient fortresses to modern luxury restaurant halls. Each locality possesses a special atmosphere that ensures this day will be remembered for a lifetime.

Many couples choose the foot of Mount Kazbek, where a celebration can be held according to ancient traditions. Others go to Kakheti, which is famous for its old wineries. In Sighnaghi, the city of lovers, the ceremony takes on a special romantic hue thanks to many small, cozy restaurants. Another option is Batumi and its outskirts, which are perfect for those who love the sea. Even Tbilisi, despite its status as the capital, offers both ultra-modern options and weddings with a national Caucasian flair—all at affordable prices.

Regarding the Czech Republic, a long and meticulous preparation process is required. Foreign citizens must collect an extensive package of documents, undergo a verification of their legal stay within the European Union, and wait for several months. The Czech Republic is known for its strict approach to marriage, especially concerning foreigners. The venue and date for the ceremony must be chosen well in advance, as the waiting period can sometimes last up to six months.

Foreigners (even if one of the partners is a resident) must provide a certificate of marital status issued no earlier than six months before the intended registration date. This document must be translated into Czech and notarized. Furthermore, one must prove that their stay in the Czech Republic is legal through a visa, residence permit, refugee status, or another official document. Even if the paperwork is in perfect order, registration will not happen immediately. The scheduling of a date depends on the workload of the registry office, and the procedure itself requires the personal presence of two witnesses and a public declaration of the intent to marry. There are two types of wedding ceremonies—civil and religious (following Catholic traditions)—but the rules are equally strict for both.

Summary of difficulties in the Czech Republic:

• Long waiting periods, sometimes lasting up to several months.
• A massive amount of paperwork required for registration.
• Mandatory presence of witnesses.
• Requirement of official legal status within the country.
• The necessity to translate documents into the state language and have them officially certified.

In Georgia, the procedure has been simplified to the absolute limit; consequently, the prices here are much lower. For example, the state fee for registration ranges from $25 to $50 USD. If you require a comprehensive “turnkey” documentation package (including translations, apostille, transfer, and other services), it costs no more than $450 USD.

In the Czech Republic, there are significantly more difficulties, a larger number of documents is required, and marriage registration for foreigners proves to be quite costly. Even after the recent simplification of the rules (which took place in May 2025), mandatory expenses remain for translating documents into Czech with notarization, as well as the payment of the state fee and the marriage registration itself. In this country, the state fee alone can cost up to €300, depending on the municipality and the format of the ceremony. Regarding the approximate price of a wedding, you may have to pay up to €1,000 for all services. One must also not forget that organizing the celebration in the Czech Republic will be much more expensive, as prices there are at European levels. While there are many beautiful locations for a wedding in that country as well, it is far from being as affordable as in Georgia.

A marriage concluded in Georgia is recognized in many countries around the world. In some nations, additional paperwork is required to legalize the relationship. Marriage documents issued in Georgia are recognized throughout almost the entire European Union, as well as in the CIS and the Middle East. If the newlyweds’ country of residence is a member of the Hague Convention, it is sufficient to have an apostille placed on the marriage certificate.

It is important to note that for many countries, an apostille is the standard requirement under the Hague Convention. This includes countries like Germany, France, Austria, and Italy. However, for states that are not part of the convention, such as the United Arab Emirates or Qatar, full consular legalization is required.

With countries that are part of the Minsk Convention, the process is much simpler. Citizens of CIS countries (such as Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia, and others) can use documents issued in Georgia without the need for notarization, visits to the consulate, or an apostille.

Marriage registration in Georgia is relevant for those who value simplicity and speed and do not wish to incur enormous expenses. It is the ideal choice for foreigners who want to legalize their relationship without bureaucratic hurdles. If you are not prepared to wait for several months, collect an endless number of papers, translate documents and then certify them, undergo legal stay verifications, and search for witnesses—here, everything can be done in a single day and much more easily. This has been appreciated by people who live in different countries, do not share the same citizenship, or are experiencing certain legal difficulties in their home country.

The Czech Republic, despite all its drawbacks, is suitable for couples who are prepared for formalities, long waiting periods, and financial expenses. For many, the fact that the marriage is registered within the European legal system, in compliance with all procedures and requirements, is important. For residents of the European Union, this is convenient and even logical. To put it simply, the Czech Republic is the best solution for those who prefer officialdom, perfectly ordered documents, and 100% European legalization.

We have prepared a table with the average cost of standard wedding packages offered by other agencies. You can compare them with our company’s offers and make your choice.

Just give us a hint of how you envision your wedding, and we will create a truly romantic event for you, where you—the couple in love—play the leading role.

Our team will fill the story of your feelings with an atmosphere of love and romance. In every minute of your celebration, warmth, comfort, and harmony will be felt. If you want a stylish, sincere, and unforgettable wedding, contact our agency. Call us or write to us by any convenient method. We are ready to turn your dreams into reality.