How to Get Married in Georgia: Complete 2026 Guide for Foreigners

Georgia (the country, not the US state) has quietly become one of the world's easiest, most affordable, and most beautiful places to get legally married as a foreigner. Whether you are a couple from Europe, the Middle East, North America, or Asia, the process is remarkably simple: no residency requirement, no waiting period, no witnesses needed, and your marriage is recognized in over 180 countries. In this comprehensive guide, we walk you through every step of getting married in Georgia in 2026.

Why Georgia? The Basics

Georgia is a member of the Hague Convention of 1961, which means an apostilled marriage certificate issued here is automatically recognized in all member states — that includes the USA, Canada, the UK, all EU countries, Australia, Israel, and most of the world. The marriage registration takes place at the House of Justice (Public Service Hall), a modern government building that handles civil registrations. The entire ceremony takes 15 to 20 minutes. No religious affiliation is required, and same-nationality and mixed-nationality couples are both welcome.

Documents You Need: Three Scenarios

Scenario 1: First Marriage for Both Partners

If neither partner has been previously married, you need only two documents: the valid passports of both the bride and groom. That is it. No birth certificates, no proof of single status, no affidavits, no embassy letters. Just passports. This makes Georgia one of the simplest countries in the world for marriage registration.

Scenario 2: One or Both Partners Previously Married

• Valid passports for both partners
• Divorce certificate (original with apostille) for the previously married partner
• Certified translation of the divorce certificate into Georgian (can be done locally for $30-50)

Scenario 3: Widowed Partner

• Valid passports for both partners
• Death certificate of the previous spouse (original with apostille)
• Certified translation of the death certificate into Georgian

Important: If your country does not issue apostilles (non-Hague Convention member), you will need to have your documents legalized through your country's embassy or consulate. Contact us for specific guidance.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Here is exactly what happens on your wedding day in Georgia, from start to finish:

• Step 1: Arrive at the House of Justice with your documents (we accompany you throughout)
• Step 2: Submit the marriage application at the registration window
• Step 3: Pay the government fee — 50 GEL (~$18) for standard processing (1-2 days) or 100 GEL (~$36) for same-day express processing
• Step 4: The registrar conducts a brief civil ceremony (15-20 minutes)
• Step 5: You receive your official marriage certificate in Georgian
• Step 6: Apply for the apostille — 50 GEL (~$18), ready in 1-2 business days
• Step 7: Pick up your apostilled marriage certificate — it is now valid worldwide

With express processing, you can arrive in Tbilisi in the morning and be legally married by lunchtime. The total government fees (registration + apostille) amount to approximately $55 — a fraction of what most countries charge.

The Apostille: Why It Matters

An apostille is an international certification that authenticates a public document for use in another country. When your Georgian marriage certificate carries an apostille, it is accepted as legally valid in all 124 countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention. This includes the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Australia, Israel, India, Brazil, Japan, South Korea, and virtually every country in Europe and the Americas.

When you return home, you will typically need to have the apostilled certificate translated into your country's official language by a certified translator. After that, you register it with your local civil registry office. The exact procedure varies by country, but the apostille ensures your marriage is recognized without further legalization.

Wedding Packages and Costs

At WedInGeorgia, we offer six packages to fit every budget and style. Every package includes full document assistance, coordination, and accompaniment at the House of Justice:

• Registration ($390) — Official marriage registration with full support and document handling. Ideal for couples who want a quick, legal ceremony.
• Classic ($590) — Registration plus a 1-2 hour professional photo session at a stunning Tbilisi location.
• Ceremony ($1,090) — An outdoor ceremony with decor, officiant, photography, and full-day coordination.
• Church Wedding ($1,190) — A traditional Orthodox ceremony in a historic Georgian church with complete organization.
• Premium ($1,490) — Expanded package: ceremony, intimate banquet for up to 10 guests, photo and video, transfers.
• VIP ($2,990) — Turnkey wedding: everything from airport pickup to farewell dinner. The ultimate stress-free experience.

Government fees (registration + apostille, approximately $55) are not included in the package prices and are paid directly to the House of Justice.

Best Locations for Your Wedding

Georgia offers astonishing diversity in a small country. Here are the most popular wedding locations:

• Tbilisi — The capital city with its charming Old Town, Narikala Fortress, Bridge of Peace, and vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for couples who want urban elegance.
• Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) — Dramatic mountain scenery with views of Mount Kazbek. The Gergeti Trinity Church at 2,170 meters is one of the most photographed spots in the Caucasus.
• Sighnaghi — The 'City of Love' perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the Alazani Valley and vineyards. Romantic and intimate.
• Mtskheta — The ancient capital and UNESCO World Heritage site, with the Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.
• Batumi — The Black Sea coast city with modern architecture, botanical gardens, and beach venues.
• Kakheti — The wine region, perfect for vineyard ceremonies and wine cellar receptions.

Best Time to Visit

The wedding season in Georgia runs from April through October, but each season has its charm. April and May bring spring blooms and mild temperatures (18-24°C). June through August is warm and sunny (28-33°C in Tbilisi), ideal for mountain ceremonies. September and October offer golden autumn colors in Kakheti's vineyards — arguably the most beautiful time for wedding photography. Even winter has its appeal: snow-covered Kazbegi creates a dramatic, fairytale backdrop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Georgian marriage legally valid in my country?

Yes, if your country is a member of the Hague Convention (180+ countries). The apostilled certificate is recognized internationally. You will need a certified translation when registering the marriage in your home country.

Do I need witnesses?

No. Georgia does not require witnesses for civil marriage registration. You can get married with just the two of you.

Do I need a visa to enter Georgia?

Citizens of over 95 countries can enter Georgia visa-free for one year, including citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, UK, Australia, Israel, and most CIS countries. Check the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for your specific nationality.

How far in advance should I plan?

Technically, you could arrange everything in a few days. However, we recommend contacting us 4-8 weeks in advance to secure your preferred photographer, location, and date — especially during peak season (May-October).

Can same-sex couples marry in Georgia?

Unfortunately, Georgian law currently recognizes marriage only between a man and a woman. Same-sex marriage is not available.

Ready to plan your wedding in Georgia? Contact WedInGeorgia at +995 551 196 255 (WhatsApp and Telegram available) or fill out the form on our website. We respond within one hour.