Civil vs Religious Marriage: Differences, Cost & Procedure
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The moment you decide to "formalize" your relationship is full of emotion, but immediately after comes the practical question: Civil or religious marriage?
Nowadays, the choice is no longer a matter of "legality"—since 1982, the two types have been absolutely equal in terms of their legal effects. But it is a matter of style, timing, and... bureaucracy.
Let's take a look together at a detailed comparison to help you decide which path best suits your story.
The "X-ray" of the Two Options
To get a clear picture, let's look at their main differences:
| Characteristic | Civil Marriage | Religious Marriage |
|---|---|---|
| Where does it take place? | At the City Hall (or a venue designated by the Municipality) | In a church of your choice |
| Who performs it? | The Mayor or an authorized Deputy Mayor | An Orthodox Church priest |
| Main document | Civil Marriage License | Certificate of Singleness & Marriage License |
| Waiting time | 7 calendar days | 1-5 days (after collecting documents) |
| Witnesses | 2 adults (no restrictions) | 2 adult Orthodox Christians |
| Basic cost | €18 fee + municipal fees | €18 stamp duty + Metropolitan expenses |
Civil Marriage: Digital Speed
If you are a fan of simplicity and speed, civil marriage is your way. The process has now entered the era of gov.gr, which means that many of the old queues are a thing of the past.
Pros:
Date flexibility: You can get married any day of the year, without fasting restrictions or the ecclesiastical calendar.
Speed: The license is issued in 7 days and the ceremony lasts about 15-20 minutes.
Digital process: If your municipality is integrated into gov.gr, the application is submitted online using Taxisnet codes.
Cons:
Municipal fees: Besides the €18 fee, some Municipalities charge a "ceremony fee". In the Municipality of Athens, for example, the cost for non-residents can reach €100.
The "feeling": For some, the City Hall chamber lacks the traditional solemnity they seek at this moment.
Religious Marriage: The Power of Tradition
Religious marriage in Greece remains the first choice for couples who want to connect their beginning with sacred words and mystery.
Pros:
The ceremony: Byzantine music, incense, and the symbolism of the wedding crowns create an atmosphere that remains indelible.
Social acceptance: For many families, religious marriage is considered the "real" event.
Cons:
Date restrictions: No weddings are performed during Great Lent, the first fortnight of August (1-15), the eves of major holidays, and generally on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Certificate of Singleness: This is the most demanding process—issued by the parish where you have resided for the last 3 years, in the presence of witnesses.
Preparation: Requires more running around between the parish and the Metropolis for the license to be stamped.
The "Cost"
| Expense | Civil | Religious |
|---|---|---|
| Fee/Stamp duty | €18 | €18 |
| Municipal fees | €0-100 | — |
| Metropolitan expenses | — | €50-150 |
| Newspaper announcement | €15-65 | €15-65 |
| Total (approx.) | €35-185 | €85-235 |
Note: The newspaper announcement is mandatory for both types of marriage.
After the Ceremony
Regardless of whether you hear "Let the wife fear her husband" or the Mayor's speech, the follow-up is the same:
40-day deadline to register your marriage at the Registry Office of the place of ceremony. If you neglect to do so, administrative fines will follow.
The digital update of your family status is the final step to access tax breaks and social services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a civil marriage first and then a religious one?
Yes! Many couples choose this order for practical reasons (e.g., tax, residence). The religious marriage can take place years later.
Which marriage is faster?
The civil one. With all documents ready, you can get married in 7-10 days. The religious one requires more preparation due to the certificate of singleness.
What if one person is not Orthodox?
For a religious marriage, a special permit from the Metropolis is required (mixed marriage). Civil marriage has no religious restrictions.
Our advice? Choose what expresses you as a couple. Whether it's a quick signature at City Hall or a grand ceremony in the church, technology is there to make your journey easier.
And don't forget: Marriage is the beginning, not the destination. Good start to your shared journey!
If you feel that the sheer volume of information is causing a slight tightening in your stomach, remember that you are not alone. The book "Our Wedding" was designed precisely to hold your hand every step of the way, from the first fee to the last signature at the Registry Office. Because marriage is the beginning, and every beginning deserves to be calm and full of light.