Choosing the Best Destination for Lebanese Civil Marriage: Cyprus, UAE, or Georgia

For Lebanese couples seeking a civil marriage, traveling abroad is necessary due to local restrictions. Popular destinations include Georgia, the UAE, and Cyprus. Once married, couples need to have their marriage recognized by Lebanon’s Ministry of Interior.

In this article, we’ll examine the civil marriage processes in these three countries and discuss why Georgia or the UAE may present more advantageous options compared to Cyprus.

Civil Marriage Process for Lebanese Couples in Cyprus

Getting married in Cyprus can be quite challenging for Lebanese couples due to the numerous and intricate requirements. To start the process, couples must gather and submit several documents. 

They need to provide two copies of each of their original civil registry records, as well as two copies for their partner. This step can be particularly time-consuming. Following this, they must also supply two copies of their family registry records, along with two copies for their partner. 

Additionally, all documents must be translated into English by a sworn translator, who will also need to sign and seal the translations. These services can be expensive, adding to the overall complexity and cost of the process.

Visa Requirements for Lebanese Couples Marrying in Cyprus

To get married in Cyprus, Lebanese couples need to secure a Schengen Visa. The application process involves several key requirements:

1. Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Cyprus.
2. Visa Application Form: Complete and submit the Schengen visa application form with accurate trip details.
3. Passport Photos: Provide two passport-sized photos that adhere to specific requirements regarding size, background, and facial expression.
4. Travel Insurance: Obtain travel insurance that covers medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation with a minimum coverage of $32,800.
5. Proof of Accommodation: Submit evidence of where you will be staying during your visit to Cyprus.
6. Proof of Financial Means: Show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. This can be done through bank statements, employment proof, or other financial documentation.
7. Return or Onward Ticket: Provide proof of a return or onward travel ticket.

Conditions for Civil Marriage in Cyprus

The process for civil marriage in Cyprus involves several detailed requirements:

1. Age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
2. Marital Status: Both parties must be unmarried. If either party is divorced, they must provide a divorce certificate. If either is widowed, a death certificate of the previous spouse is necessary.
3. Consent: Both parties must give their consent freely and without any form of coercion.
4. Legal Eligibility: There should be no legal barriers to the marriage, such as close familial relationships or mental incapacity.
5. Marriage Notice: You must submit a marriage notice to the local civil registry office at least three days before the wedding.
6. Marriage Officer: The ceremony must be performed by a registered marriage officer.
7. Marriage Registration: After the ceremony, the marriage needs to be officially registered with the local civil registry office.
8. Waiting Period: From the time of application, the marriage can be conducted only after a minimum of 15 days, and it must occur within three months.

This process, while thorough, can be quite time-consuming and complex, making the journey to civil marriage in Cyprus a detailed endeavor.

Civil Marriage in the UAE for Lebanese Couples

While the UAE may not be the top choice for Lebanese couples seeking civil marriage, it remains a viable option. 

Requirements for Lebanese Couples to Marry in the UAE

The UAE has recently updated its civil marriage laws with the introduction of Federal Decree-Law No. 41/2022. This new legislation allows non-Muslim foreigners and UAE residents to marry civilly, though it does not extend to UAE nationals who are Muslim. For Lebanese couples wishing to marry under this law, the following conditions must be met:

1. Consent: Both parties must provide their consent to the marriage.
2. Age: Each party must be at least 18 years old.
3. Relationship: The parties must not be related by first or second degree.
4. Marital Status: Neither party should be currently married to someone.

Document Requirements for Lebanese Couples for Civil Marriage in the UAE

In contrast to the more complex requirements in Cyprus, the documentation needed for a civil marriage in the UAE is relatively straightforward:

1. Completed Marriage Form: Both parties must fill out and sign the marriage application form.
2. Passport Copies: Provide copies of both parties’ passports.
3. Proof of Divorce: If either party was previously married, they must present evidence that the prior marriage has been legally dissolved.

Conditions for Civil Marriage in the UAE

To marry civilly in the UAE, Lebanese couples must fulfill the following conditions:

1. Religion: Both parties must be non-Muslim.
2. Residency: At least one partner must be a resident of the UAE.
3. Age: Both individuals must be at least 21 years old.
4. Court Appearance: Either the couple or their legally authorized representative must appear in court.
5. Identity Verification: Present original identification documents.
6. Proof of Single Status: Provide evidence that both parties are currently unmarried.

Civil Marriage in Georgia for Lebanese Couples

For Lebanese couples seeking an affordable, fast, and straightforward civil marriage, Georgia stands out as the top choice. Georgia has become a popular destination for couples looking to marry quickly and easily.

Unlike other countries, where the process can take weeks or even months, Georgia allows couples to complete their civil marriage within just 24 hours

Documents Required for Lebanese Couples in Georgia

Lebanese couples planning to marry in Georgia need to provide the following essential documents:

1. Valid Passport

Both partners must have a valid passport.

2. Passport Translation

 If the passports are not in Georgian, they must be translated into Georgian.

3. Certificate of Divorce or Death

If either partner was previously married, they must provide a certificate of divorce or a death certificate of the former spouse.

Conditions for Civil Marriage in Georgia for Lebanese Couples

In Georgia, couples from any country can legally marry, with no requirement for residency. The conditions for Lebanese couples are as follows:

1. Age: Both partners must be at least 18 years old. If either is 17, parental consent is required.
2. Consent: Both parties must verbally agree to the marriage and provide their consent.

Georgia’s streamlined process and flexible requirements make it an attractive choice for Lebanese couples, often preferred over Cyprus or other destinations.

Comparison of Visa Costs of Cyprus, UAE, and Georgia from Lebanon

For Lebanese citizens, the visa costs vary significantly across Cyprus, the UAE, and Georgia. To travel to Cyprus, a short-stay visa costs approximately $100, which translates to about 8,949,465 Lebanese pounds. 

In contrast, obtaining a visa for the UAE is more expensive, at around $193, or roughly 17,401,737 Lebanese pounds. 

On the other hand, Georgia offers a more economical option as Lebanese citizens do not need a visa for entry, making it the most cost-effective choice among these destinations.

Hotel Booking Charges Comparison: Cyprus, UAE, and Georgia

For Lebanese couples planning a civil marriage abroad, hotel accommodation costs are an important consideration. Among Cyprus, the UAE, and Georgia, Georgia offers the most budget-friendly hotel rates.

Therefore, Georgia not only provides the most cost-effective civil marriage fees but also the most economical accommodation, making it an attractive choice for Lebanese couples.

 UAE comes next in terms of affordability, while Cyprus is the most expensive option for hotel bookings. 

Wedding Destination Comparison: Georgia, UAE, and Cyprus

Cost: Georgia is the most budget-friendly option for a wedding. It’s generally cheaper than both the UAE and Cyprus.

Wedding Experience: Georgia offers a traditional and cultural setting. The UAE and Cyprus, on the other hand, provide a more modern and luxurious experience.

Climate: Cyprus has warm summers and mild winters, which is great for those who like a consistent climate. The UAE is usually hot and humid, while Georgia has a varied climate with cooler temperatures in the mountains.

Things to Do: The UAE has lots of activities, including shopping, dining, and theme parks. Cyprus is known for its beautiful beaches and ancient sites. Georgia offers a rich cultural experience with historical sites and beautiful nature.

Wedding Package Comparison: Cyprus, UAE, and Georgia

Cyprus

Weddings in Cyprus can be quite expensive for Lebanese couples, with costs ranging from $11,000 to $17,700.

UAE

Wedding packages in the UAE start at around $1,145. For those seeking a more extravagant experience, there are various luxury options available to fit different preferences.

Georgia

Georgia provides a cost-effective solution with its wedding packages. The “Cute Marriage” package, ideal for Lebanese couples, costs $1,214 and covers everything from initial consultation and document preparation to full wedding planning and translation services.

Conclusion 

For Lebanese couples seeking a civil marriage, Georgia is an excellent choice. The process is much simpler and quicker compared to Cyprus and the UAE. In Georgia, you can complete your marriage within 24 hours, whereas Cyprus requires a minimum waiting period of 15 days. Additionally, Georgia offers a major advantage with free visas for Lebanese citizens valid for up to 365 days. With the lowest civil marriage fees among the three, Georgia stands out as the most cost-effective and hassle-free option.