Persian American Wedding: Your Guide to Marriage Procedures in 2024
Seeking a civil marriage in Iran? Discover why your solution might be waiting outside its borders.
Civil marriage in Iran is not legally valid under Islamic law, leading couples to seek Sharia marriage for official recognition.
This compels many to find solutions for civil marriage in Iran overseas, aligning with their personal or religious preferences while securing their legal status at home and abroad.
This article discusses statistics, alternatives, and the legal implications of civil and Sharia marriages in Iran.
Statistics on Iranian Marriage Requests in the UAE
Between October 2023 and October 2024, Easy Wedding observed a 50% increase in marriage requests from Iranian nationals, indicating a significant trend of opting for weddings abroad.
The main appeal has been cross-border marriages between the UAE and Georgia, with 82% involving one Iranian and one foreign partner and 18% featuring couples from Iran.
Popular Wedding Locations
46% of Iranian couples choose the UAE as their wedding destination, followed by Georgia at 24%, and 23% selecting virtual weddings, reflecting an increase in online marriage arrangements. The rest, about 7%, are split among various global locations.
Wedding Styles
The bulk, 75%, select civil marriage in Iran setups, primarily through Georgia or Abu Dhabi courts. In contrast, traditional weddings with larger gatherings account for only 5%.
Religious ceremonies, including Sharia (Nikah) marriages, constitute 4%, showing a persistent but more minor preference for these types of weddings.
Religious Composition of Couples
The statistics show that 12% of couples are interfaith, with Muslim brides and Christian grooms, while 32% are Muslim couples, underscoring the prevalence of same-faith marriages.
Additionally, 7% are Muslim brides with partners of other faiths, but only 4% of non-Muslim couples have opted for the UAE for their civil marriage in Iran.
Non-Muslim Marriage Permits
A noteworthy statistic is that 16% of men are applying for permits to marry non-Muslim women, highlighting an evolving acceptance of interfaith marriages.
This shows an adaptive approach to civil marriage in Iran, particularly for those marrying abroad, to accommodate personal and legal considerations.
Marital Options for Iranians Looking Abroad
Iranians who wish to marry outside the conventional routes can consider two significant choices. A civil marriage in Abu Dhabi provides a globally recognised, straightforward process with minimal paperwork and no religious barriers.
Though civil marriage in Iran is not valid, Iranians can pursue a Shariah marriage domestically following Islamic rites. Considering a civil marriage in Iran but carried out elsewhere, Georgia proves to be a leading option.
Its straightforward process and absence of residency rules make it a favoured choice. Both Georgia and the UAE are also celebrated for their picturesque landscapes and well-established wedding industries, attracting many for destination weddings.
Marriage Legalisation in Iran
The legal system in Iran recognises only marriages conducted under Shariah law, disregarding any civil marriage in Iran as legally non-existent and potentially punishable.
Couples interested in a civil marriage in Iran must also have a Shariah wedding to ensure their union is legally valid and recognised throughout Iran.
Marriage Legalisation in the US
The US accepts all marriage configurations, including civil marriage in Iran, provided they are legally executed in Iran.
This flexibility allows couples to use their marriage for residency and sponsorship, making the US an attractive destination for settling abroad.
Conversion if One of the Partners is Non-Muslim
Marriage regulations in Iran demand that if a non-Muslim and a Muslim wish to marry, the non-Muslim must convert.
Specifically, a non-Muslim groom must embrace Islam to marry a Muslim bride. Conversely, a bride from a Christian or Jewish background marrying a Muslim man is not required to convert.
Despite the disallowance of civil marriage in Iran, couples can opt to marry in other countries without these conversion mandates, facilitating easier civil marriage in Iran.
Sharia Marriage Requirements
For a wedding in Qatar, Muslims will need:
- Passport-size photos.
- A passport or equivalent document.
- Birth certificate.
- Death certificate if the previous spouse is deceased.
- Divorce papers if previously married.
- Residence permit.
- Genetic testing results.
- Permission to marry from the relevant authorities.
Civil Marriage Requirements
Civil marriages aren’t allowed in Qatar; couples usually marry in Abu Dhabi. To have a civil marriage in Iran, travel to Abu Dhabi, where it’s legal.
- The civil marriage in Iran process can be completed within 24 hours in Abu Dhabi.
- Gather all required documents in advance.
- After registering in Abu Dhabi, the marriage is legally recognized back in Qatar.
Easy Wedding: Streamlining Your Wedding Plans!
Is the complexity of a civil marriage in Iran overwhelming? Our court wedding packages are perfect for making your big day smooth and memorable.
Whether it’s about a civil marriage in Iran or looking into Georgia or the UAE options, Easy Wedding is your answer for simplicity and speed.
Don’t let challenging processes deter you—call us now, and we’ll handle everything while you enjoy your journey of love.
FAQs
Can an Iranian marry a US citizen?
Absolutely, an Iranian can marry a U.S. citizen. They may opt for a civil marriage in Iran style ceremony in places like Abu Dhabi or Georgia or go with Sharia marriage procedures if desired.
Can a Muslim and a Christian get married in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Yes. The non-Muslim partner may convert to Islam for a Sharia wedding. Alternatively, a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi is available, which is comparable to a civil marriage in Iran for couples of different faiths.
Can an American-Iranian couple get married in Abu Dhabi if one partner is Muslim?
Yes, if the groom is Muslim. The marriage can be done through a Nikah and civil registration, meeting all legal standards, unlike a civil marriage in Iran, which is restricted by religious mandates.
How can I move to the US with my partner if I am Iranian?
Begin the U.S. immigration process by applying for a K-1 fiancé(e) visa or a spousal visa.
Do you get a visa if you marry an American?
Marrying a U.S. citizen can qualify you for the spousal visa or green card process.
Do you lose U.S. citizenship if you marry an Iranian?
No, marrying an Iranian will not impact your U.S. citizenship status.
Does Iran allow civil marriage?
No, only Islamic Sharia law marriages are recognized in Iran.
How to get married in Iran with my foreign partner?
You can have your partner convert and marry under Sharia law in Iran, or choose a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi or Georgia.
What are the requirements for marriage in Iran?
The requirements for a Sharia marriage in Iran include a valid passport, a Power of Attorney (POA) from the bride’s father, the Wali (guardian)’s presence, and additional local Islamic authority approvals.
How can I marry my American partner?
You can marry your American partner through a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi or Georgia. If you prefer Islamic law (Sharia) and you’re Muslim, a Nikah ceremony will be required.