How do you get legally married in Italy for a destination wedding?

How to get legally married in Italy

This article is not intended to be read as legal advice. Before you head to Italy, we recommend you familiarise yourself with the legal requirements for marrying there. 

It’s no wonder Italy is one of the most popular destinations in the world for couples getting married overseas. Rolling Tuscan hills, dramatic Amalfi Coast cliffs, historic villas, lakes, vineyards, and centuries-old architecture create an unforgettable setting for a wedding celebration with your favourite people.

For Australians wanting to get legally married in Italy, the good news is this: it’s absolutely possible, and the process is far more straightforward than in some other destination countries. That said, there’s still official paperwork involved, and understanding it early will save you stress later.

Before packing your bags, it’s worth deciding whether to do the legal marriage in Italy or handle the legal ceremony in Australia and have a symbolic celebration overseas. Many couples choose to complete the legal side at home for simplicity, but if making it official in Italy is important to you, here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Italian marriage requirements

As an Australian couple, your marriage must comply with Italian law to be valid in Italy, and it will then be recognised in Australia. Unlike some countries, Italy does not require a religious ceremony for a marriage to be legal. A civil ceremony performed by an authorised Italian official at the local town hall (Comune) is all that’s needed for the marriage to be legally binding.

Legal requirements for marriage in Italy

To legally marry in Italy, Australians generally need:

• Valid passports
• Full birth certificates
• Divorce decree or death certificate (if previously married)
• Evidence of any legal name change
• Atto Notorio (Sworn Declaration)
• Nulla Osta (Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage)

Atto Notorio

This is a sworn declaration stating there is no legal reason you cannot marry. It is made before an Italian authority and requires four adult witnesses (not related to you). These witnesses are confirming your identity and marital status.

Nulla Osta

This is your official “no impediment” certificate. Australians obtain it through the Australian Embassy or Consulate in Italy after presenting the required documents. It confirms you are legally free to marry. Some municipalities have slightly different procedures, which is why couples usually work with a planner or local coordinator.

Should you marry legally in Italy or in Australia first?

We often recommend couples consider doing the legal ceremony in Australia first, then holding a symbolic ceremony in Italy. This removes language barriers, embassy appointments, strict document timing and lets you focus purely on celebration once you arrive. That said, if signing the paperwork in Italy is part of the dream, it’s completely achievable with good planning.

Getting legally married in Italy: what you’ll need

Before you leave Australia:

• Gather original documents (passports, birth certificates, divorce papers if applicable)
• Check if documents need Apostille stamps and official translations into Italian
• Confirm requirements with your chosen Italian municipality or planner

In Italy:

• Attend appointment to complete the Atto Notorio
• Attend your appointment at the Australian Embassy/Consulate for your Nulla Osta
• Submit all paperwork to the local Comune (town hall)
• Attend your civil ceremony conducted by the municipality
• Receive your Italian Marriage Certificate

You may later arrange an official translation of your marriage certificate for Australian records.

Witness requirements

• Four witnesses are required for the Atto Notorio
• Civil ceremonies usually require two witnesses

Maybe some professional help?

Most couples choose to work with a local wedding planner or agency. They help coordinate appointments, translations, communication with the town hall, and ensure deadlines are met — which can be a huge relief when navigating another country’s legal system.

Timelines & deadlines to remember

• Begin document preparation: 2–3 months before travel
• Embassy/consulate appointments: Book in advance
• Paperwork approval with the town hall: Often required several days before the wedding
• Nulla Osta validity: Typically 6 months

Weigh the pros and cons of getting legally married in Italy

A legal wedding in Italy adds romance and meaning, but it does involve official processes, appointments, and document precision. Couples who value simplicity often choose to sign at home, while those who want the full Italian experience can absolutely make it happen with preparation. If the celebration matters more than the paperwork, a symbolic ceremony offers the same beauty without the bureaucracy.

Final thoughts

Getting legally married in Italy as an Australian is absolutely achievable, but it requires organisation, time, and expert guidance. If you love the romance of an Italian ceremony but want less stress, handling the legal side in Australia first can be a smart move. Either way, you still get the vineyards, villas, long-table dinners, and unforgettable atmosphere.

Need help planning?

Still taking it all in? We know it’s a lot to take in, but that’s what we are here for. With years of industry experience, Easy Weddings provides expert advice and exclusive access to venues, vendors, and suppliers both in Australia and overseas. Our destination weddings team can guide you through legal requirements, paperwork timelines, and venue planning so you can focus on all the fun parts. Contact our team , or access our free wedding planning PDF by sharing your email to make the most of your new journey!

Disclaimer

We’ve done our best to keep this information accurate, but legal requirements can change and vary by municipality. Always confirm details with the Australian Embassy and your Italian town hall before making arrangements.

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