Getting married

Civil Marriage 

In Lithuania, you can get married if at least one of the partners is a Lithuanian citizen or a foreigner with a residence permit, and both of you are over 18 years old. 

If you wish to get married in Lithuania, you'll need to complete the required forms and submit them along with your passport, birth certificate, and other necessary documents to the Civil Registry office (known as Civilinės metrikacijos skyrius). Marriage in Lithuania is registered at least one month after submitting the application, and on your special day, you'll need to have two witnesses by your side. 

Required Documents 

  • Proof of Identity: Passport or ID card
  • Birth Certificate: Sometimes not required but recommended
  • Certificate of No Impediment: Foreign citizens must provide a document from their home country stating there are no obstacles to marriage (i.e., they are not currently married). If divorced or widowed, provide proof of divorce or a death certificate of the previous spouse

Legalization and Translation: All foreign documents (except passports) must be legalized or certified with an Apostille, except for documents from Russia, Moldova, Ukraine, Latvia, and Estonia. Documents must also be translated into Lithuanian. 

Document Submission 

If documents are submitted online, bring the originals and their translations on the day of the marriage registration. Additionally, non-EU/EFTA citizens must provide proof of legal stay in Lithuania (e.g., visa). Marriage cannot be registered if the person is in Lithuania illegally or their stay permit has expired. 

Costs 

  • Registry Office Fee: €30 
  • Chosen Location Fees may differ

Marriage is registered at least one month after submitting the application. Both parties must be present when applying. 

Interpreter 

If you need an interpreter for your wedding ceremony in Lithuania, it's important to have someone who can fluently speak both languages present. This person doesn't have to be a professional interpreter; it can be any of your wedding guests who are proficient in both languages. This ensures that everyone understands the ceremony. 

Church Marriage 

A church marriage, conducted in accordance with the requirements of the Lithuanian Civil Code, is registered with Civil Registry office within ten days of the ceremony. The spouses do not need to apply; the Civil Registry Office will register the marriage in the manner established by the church, and the data will be electronically transmitted to the Center of Registers (known as Registrų centras). 

 The regulation of church marriages is determined by church canon law, so it is recommended to consult with your chosen church. 

Citizenship by Marriage 

If you marry a Lithuanian citizen, you may obtain temporary or permanent residency. After living in Lithuania with your spouse for 7 years, you can apply for Lithuanian citizenship. 

Same sex marriage  

The Civil Code defines marriage as a "voluntary agreement between a man and a woman," making same-sex marriage illegal in Lithuania. However, attitudes are changing, especially among the younger generation, who are becoming more supportive of same-sex marriages. Pride parades in the capital are also gaining more popularity, reflecting this growing acceptance. 

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us
About us

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is part of the United Nations System as the leading inter-governmental organization promoting since 1951 humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, with 175 member states and a presence in over 100 countries. IOM has had a presence in Lithuania since 1998.

IOM has established a Migration Information Center in Lithuania that provides information and services to migrants to facilitate their integration.