Marrying a Romanian bride can be a beautiful journey, filled with love and cultural richness. However, as a foreigner, the process involves several legal steps, documentation, and an understanding of local customs. This guide provides a detailed overview of how to marry a Romanian bride in Bucharest, including the necessary documents, timelines, and tips for a smooth experience.
Understanding the Legal Framework
In Romania, marriages can be conducted through civil ceremonies, which are legally binding, and religious ceremonies, which may follow the civil ceremony for cultural or personal reasons. For your marriage to be recognized legally, you must register it with the local authorities.
Step 1: Preparation Before the Marriage
1.1 Eligibility Requirements
To marry in Romania, both parties must meet certain criteria:
• Age: Both individuals must be at least 18 years old. If one party is younger, parental consent is required.
• Legal Capacity: Both parties should be legally free to marry. This means you cannot be currently married to someone else.
1.2 Required Documents
You will need to gather several documents before proceeding with the marriage application:
• Passport: A valid passport is essential for identification.
• Birth Certificate: An official copy of your birth certificate, usually translated into Romanian.
• Certificate of No Impediment: This document confirms that you are legally free to marry. It may also be referred to as a "single status certificate." You can obtain this from your home country’s authorities.
• Divorce Decree or Death Certificate: If applicable, provide proof of dissolution of any previous marriages.
• Medical Certificate: Some municipalities may require a medical certificate confirming that you are free from certain contagious diseases.
1.3 Translation and Legalization
All documents not in Romanian must be translated by a certified translator. Additionally, some documents may need to be legalized or apostilled depending on your home country’s requirements.
Step 2: Registering Your Intent to Marry
2.1 Visit the Local City Hall (Primăria)
Once you have gathered all your documents, visit the local City Hall (Primăria) in Bucharest where you plan to marry. You will need to submit your paperwork and express your intent to marry.
2.2 Application Form
At the City Hall, you will fill out an application form for marriage registration. This form is generally available at the municipal office.
2.3 Fees
Be prepared to pay a small fee for the registration process. The amount may vary by municipality but is usually nominal.
Step 3: Waiting Period
After submitting your application, there is typically a waiting period of around 10 days. This allows time for any objections to be raised and ensures that all documentation is verified.
Step 4: Marriage Ceremony
4.1 Choosing the Type of Ceremony
You can opt for either a civil ceremony or a religious ceremony:
• Civil Ceremony: This is mandatory for legal recognition and usually takes place at the City Hall. It is brief and involves signing the marriage register.
• Religious Ceremony: If you wish to have a religious ceremony afterward, consult with the respective religious institution for their requirements.
4.2 Scheduling the Ceremony
Once the waiting period is over and all documentation is verified, you can schedule your ceremony. Civil ceremonies are often conducted in Romanian, so consider hiring a translator if necessary.
Step 5: Post-Marriage Formalities
5.1 Obtaining Marriage Certificate
After the ceremony, request an official marriage certificate from the City Hall. This document will be in Romanian and may need to be translated if you require it for use in another country.
5.2 Updating Personal Documents
Depending on your home country’s regulations, you may need to update your marital status on various documents such as passports or identification cards.
Time Scale Overview
• Document Preparation: 2-4 weeks (depending on how quickly you can gather and translate documents)
• Application Submission: Immediate upon arrival in Bucharest
• Waiting Period: Approximately 10 days
• Ceremony Scheduling: Can often be done within a week after the waiting period
• Total Time: Expect the entire process to take anywhere from 4 weeks to a couple of months, depending on individual circumstances and local regulations.
Tips and Recommendations
Research Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with Romanian customs related to marriage. Understanding these traditions will enrich your experience and show respect for your partner’s culture.
Language Barrier: Consider learning basic Romanian phrases or hiring a translator during important meetings or ceremonies.
Consult with Locals: Engage with locals or expatriates who have gone through the process. Their experiences can provide valuable insights and tips.
Plan Ahead: Given that some documents may take time to obtain or translate, start preparing well in advance of your intended wedding date.
Legal Advice: If you're unsure about any legal aspects, consider consulting a lawyer who specializes in family law or international marriages in Romania.
Celebrate with Family: If possible, involve family members in the celebrations. Romanian weddings often include family and friends in traditional festivities.
Cultural Sensitivity: Be open-minded and respectful towards cultural differences. Understanding your partner's background will strengthen your relationship.
Summary
Marrying a Romanian mail order bride in Bucharest involves navigating through various formalities and paperwork, but with proper preparation and understanding of local customs, it can be a fulfilling experience. By following this guide and seeking advice when needed, you'll be well-equipped to embark on this exciting journey toward marriage in Romania.