Civil Marriage for Lebanese Couples: Cyprus vs. UAE vs. Georgia

Lebanese law does not permit civil marriage, so Lebanese couples seeking this option must travel abroad. Georgia, the UAE, and Cyprus are the primary destinations for civil marriages. After the ceremony, couples must submit their marriage certificate to the Lebanese Ministry of Interior’s Personal Status Department for official recognition. This article examines the civil marriage processes in Georgia, the UAE, and Cyprus and highlights why Georgia or the UAE might be preferable over Cyprus.

Civil Marriage in Cyprus for Lebanese Couples

Opting for Cyprus for a civil marriage may involve a lengthy and complex process for Lebanese couples. The procedure is marked by multiple steps and requirements that can be cumbersome.

Document Requirements for Lebanese Couples in Cyprus

 Lebanese couples must gather several documents for a civil marriage in Cyprus:

• Civil Registry Records: Two copies of each partner’s civil registry records are required. This process can be time-consuming.
• Family Registry Records: Similarly, two copies of each partner’s family registry records are needed. This step involves additional documentation.
• Translation of Documents: All documents must be translated into English by a sworn translator, who will sign and seal the translations. Note that sworn translators typically charge high fees.

Visa Requirements for Lebanese Couples in Cyprus 

To marry in Cyprus, Lebanese couples must obtain a Schengen visa, which involves:

• Valid Passport: The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay.
• Visa Application Form: Complete and accurate details must be provided in the application form.
• Passport-Sized Photos: Two photos that meet specific requirements are needed.
• Travel Insurance: Coverage must include medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation with a minimum coverage of $32,800.
• Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where you will stay in Cyprus must be provided.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or other financial documents must show that you can cover your expenses.
• Return or Onward Ticket: A ticket proving your return or onward travel is required.

Conditions for Civil Marriage in Cyprus 

To marry in Cyprus, the following conditions must be met:

• Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
• Both must be unmarried; divorced individuals need to provide a divorce certificate, and widowed individuals need a death certificate of the former spouse.
• Marriage must be consensual and free from coercion.
• There should be no legal impediments, such as close family relations or mental incapacity.
• A marriage notice must be filed with the local civil registry office at least three days before the wedding.
• The ceremony must be conducted by a registered marriage officer.
• The marriage must be officially registered, and the ceremony must occur after a minimum of 15 days but within three months of the application.

Civil Marriage in the UAE for Lebanese Couples

The UAE, while not the most ideal location for Lebanese couples, has become a viable option due to recent legal reforms. The introduction of Federal Decree-Law No. 41/2022 now allows non-Muslim foreigners and UAE residents to marry civilly. However, this law does not apply to UAE nationals who are Muslim.

Requirements for Civil Marriage in the UAE

 Lebanese couples must meet the following requirements:

• Both partners must be at least 18 years old and must consent to the marriage.
• They must not be related by the first or second degree.
• Neither partner should be currently married.

Documents Required for Lebanese Couples in the UAE 

The documents required include:

• Completed and Signed Marriage Form
• Passport Copies
• Proof of Dissolution of Previous Marriage: If applicable, evidence of a previous marriage’s dissolution is needed.

Need help with the documents? Let us know.

Conditions for Civil Marriage in the UAE 

To marry in the UAE, the following conditions apply:

• Non-Muslim Status: Both parties must be non-Muslim.
• Residency Requirement: At least one partner must be a UAE resident.
• Minimum Age: Both partners must be at least 21 years old.
• Court Appearance: Either the couple or their authorized representative must appear in court.
• Identification: Original IDs of both partners are required.
• Proof of Single Status: Evidence that both partners are unmarried must be provided.

Civil Marriage in Georgia for Lebanese Couples

For Lebanese couples seeking an affordable, efficient, and straightforward civil marriage, Georgia is the ideal choice. Georgia has become a popular destination due to its streamlined and favorable conditions.

Documents Required for Lebanese Couples in Georgia 

To marry in Georgia, Lebanese couples need:

• Valid Passport: Both partners must have valid passports.
• Translation of Passport: Passports in languages other than Georgian must be translated into Georgian.
• Certificate of Divorce or Death: If either partner was previously married, they must provide a certificate of divorce or death of the former spouse. This document must be translated and notarized.

Conditions for Civil Marriage in Georgia 

To marry in Georgia, the following conditions apply:

• Residency: Neither partner needs to be a resident of Georgia.
• Age Requirement: Both partners must be at least 18 years old. If either is 17, parental consent is required.
• Consent: Both parties must verbally agree to the marriage.
• Marriage Consent: Both individuals must consent to the marriage willingly.

Georgia’s efficient process and minimal requirements make it the preferred choice for Lebanese couples looking for a hassle-free civil marriage experience.

Comparison of Visa Costs for Lebanese Citizens: Cyprus, UAE, and Georgia

• Cyprus: The short-stay visa costs approximately $100.
• UAE: The visa fee is about $193, translating to approximately 17,401,737 Lebanese pounds.
• Georgia: No visa is required for Lebanese passport holders, allowing them to stay in Georgia for up to one year without incurring any visa charges.

Georgia offers the lowest civil marriage fees compared to Cyprus and the UAE.

Hotel Booking Charges Comparison: Cyprus, UAE, and Georgia

When booking accommodation, Georgia is the most budget-friendly option. Cyprus has the highest hotel rates, making it the most expensive destination among the three, while the UAE falls in between.

Comparison of Wedding Destinations: Georgia, UAE, and Cyprus

• Budget: Georgia is the most affordable option, with lower overall costs compared to the UAE and Cyprus.
• Style: Georgia offers a traditional and cultural experience, while the UAE and Cyprus provide modern and luxurious settings. The UAE is known for its opulence, while Cyprus combines luxury with Mediterranean charm.
• Climate: Cyprus enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. The UAE is hot and humid, while Georgia features a varied climate with cooler temperatures in the mountains.
• Activities: The UAE provides a range of activities, including shopping, dining, and theme parks. Cyprus is known for its beaches and ancient ruins. Georgia highlights its cultural heritage with historical sites and natural beauty.

Comparison of Wedding Packages: Cyprus, UAE, and Georgia

• Cyprus: Wedding costs for Lebanese couples range from $11,000 to $17,700, making it one of the more expensive options.
• UAE: Wedding packages start at around $1,145 Upscale options are available for those seeking a more luxurious celebration.
• Georgia: The “Cute Marriage” package, priced at $1,214, is popular among Lebanese couples. It includes consultation, document preparation, full wedding planning support, passport translation, and wedding paperwork.

Key Takeaway

For Lebanese couples, Georgia offers the most favorable conditions for a civil marriage. Compared to Cyprus and the UAE, Georgia provides a simplified process with minimal documentation, allowing marriages to be completed in as little as 24 hours. Additionally, Georgia offers free visas to Lebanese citizens for up to 365 days, and its civil marriage fees are the lowest among the three countries, making it the most cost-effective and convenient option.