Wedding in Luxembourg

How many people get married in Luxembourg?

Before getting into the bureaucratic intricacies, let's explore the matrimonial landscape in the Grand Duchy. Over the past decade, marriage in Luxembourg has maintained a relatively stable frequency, hovering around 1,900 ceremonies annually. However, the substantial spike in 2022 is noteworthy, witnessing a remarkable increase to 2,475 unions.

Source: statec.lu

When viewed in the broader context of the European Union, this figure may seem significant, yet Luxembourg finds itself towards the lower end of the spectrum. Ranking among the smallest European countries, the subdued wedding count is unsurprising. The list is headed by Turkey, Germany, Ukraine, France and Poland.

Source: Eurostat

Who can marry in Luxembourg?

Now, transitioning from our insights into Luxembourg's matrimonial landscape, let's explore the specific requirements for a wedding in Luxembourg. To exchange vows in the Grand Duchy, both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old, and one of you must have an official residence in Luxembourg. Interestingly, nationality is not a hindrance, as long as either of you is a Luxembourg resident, you're good to go.

How to get married in Luxembourg?

Now, let's explore the step-by-step process, required documents, and procedures to tie the knot in Luxembourg.

The preliminary steps

Crucial in the journey toward matrimony in Luxembourg is meticulous preparation. The initial step involves a visit to the Civil Registry at least 2 to 3 months before the wedding date. 

If both partners are Luxembourg nationals and residents, one of them should attend this office 2 months before the ceremony. In cases where either party is a non-Luxembourg resident, one of the future spouses must visit 3 months in advance.If both partners are Luxembourg nationals and residents, one of them should attend this office 2 months before the ceremony. In cases where either party is a non-Luxembourg resident, one of the future spouses must visit 3 months in advance.

It's noteworthy that for the City of Luxembourg, the first physical visit is not mandatory. The document checklist is available online on the city's website. The application needs to be submitted in the presence of both future spouses no later than one month before the wedding date. 

The required documents

To ensure a seamless matrimonial journey in Luxembourg, meticulous preparation of the required documents is paramount. It's crucial to note that all documents must be in French, German, or English or accompanied by a certified translation, especially if originating from non-EU countries, where additional authentication through apostille is necessary.

Here's a comprehensive list of the necessary documents

Something's missing

Make sure you have collected all the necessary documents

*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.

Proof of identity

A valid copy of the passport or identity card for both future spouses

Residence proof

For those not residing legally in Luxembourg: a certificate of residence or any document confirming residency

Proof of single status

For Luxembourg nationals a recent copy of the birth certificate issued in Luxembourg and for foreign nationals a certificate of matrimonial capacity or a customary certificate accompanied by a celibacy certificate.

Birth certificate

A full copy of the birth certificate issued by the birthplace commune, valid for up to 6 months. If unavailable, a notarial certificate from the magistrate of the birthplace or legal domicile, recognized by the District Court, can be provided.

Something's missing

Make sure you have collected all the necessary documents

*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.

Special considerations for German and Portuguese nationals

German

Portuguese

The marriage file

Once all the required documents are in hand, the prospective spouses must visit the Civil Registry no later than 1 month before the wedding date. They need to submit all mentioned documents for the constitution of the marriage file, providing details such as:

• Place and date of birth of their parents, their respective addresses, and professions. If a parent is deceased, the place and date of death should be indicated.
• National identification number.
• Number of individuals attending the civil marriage ceremony.
• Their address after the marriage.

This final step ensures the completeness of the marriage file, paving the way for a legally sound and joyous celebration in Luxembourg.

The prior publication

In Luxembourg, every marriage is preceded by a 10-day publication period following the receipt of required documents. This announcement occurs in the commune of the future spouses' residence or the Civil Registry of the municipality where the marriage will take place.

There's a notable exception for Italian nationals. If either spouse was born and has been domiciled in Luxembourg since birth, marriage records are published at the Italian Consulate. If born in Italy, the marriage documentation is published in Italy. In both cases, the civil registry official informs the Italian Consulate for necessary procedures. Additionally, a municipality fee in Italy is applicable.

The marriage ceremony

Once all necessary procedures are complete, it's time to embark on the wedding ceremony in Luxembourg. The date and time of the marriage are determined upon the submission of the complete dossier. Luxembourg allows weddings on any working day of the week, officiated by the mayor, acting as the civil registrar, or a delegate such as an alderman or municipal councilor.

The ceremony occurs in the municipality where one of the future spouses legally resides, typically within the town hall or another designated location approved by the municipal council. Given Luxembourg's status as a secular state, the civil marriage ceremony is separate from any religious rites. Those desiring a religious ceremony can arrange it, but it can only follow the civil marriage, highlighting Luxembourg's dedication to both legal formalities and the secular nature of weddings in Luxembourg.

Which matrimonial regimes are popular in Luxembourg?

In addition to the formalities of arranging and conducting the wedding in Luxembourg, there's a crucial aspect we haven't touched upon: matrimonial regimes.

There are 3 matrimonial regimes in the Grand Duchy

legal matrimonial regime

separation of property

universal community of property

When entering into marriage, one necessarily adheres to one of these three regimes. If no marital contract is signed, the legal matrimonial regime is automatically applied. However, individuals are free to adopt any other form of marital contract or make changes to the existing regime.

Let's take a brief look into each of these regimes, though it's important to note that we're entering a legal realm with multifaceted implications and details. For a comprehensive understanding of each contract's characteristics and suitability for specific cases, consulting with a legal professional is advisable.

After at least two years of marriage, spouses are free to make changes to their existing matrimonial regime through a notarized agreement. Understanding these matrimonial regimes is crucial, as they shape the financial landscape of a marriage. Couples should carefully consider their options and, if necessary, seek legal advice to ensure the chosen regime aligns with their circumstances and preferences when planning a wedding in Luxembourg.

What you need to know about paid leave, tax changes and the name of your family

To conclude, let's explore some immediate consequences of marriage in Luxembourg, as it brings various benefits, both to have time to celebrate and to change the status in the society.To conclude, let's explore some immediate consequences of marriage in Luxembourg, as it brings various benefits, both to have time to celebrate and to change the status in the society.