Marriage Procedures in Turkey for Russian Citizens: Step by Step Guide

Turkey is not only a vacation destination for citizens of the Russian Federation, but also a popular option for establishing a marriage union. According to the Turkish Civil Code, foreign nationals can marry before the competent Turkish authorities in Turkey.

This step-by-step guide outlines which documents to prepare, the approval and translation process, and important details of the marriage process in Turkey. It is of great importance to follow each step correctly for the process to go smoothly.

Documents Required for Marriage

There are some basic documents required from both Turkish and foreign spouses for marriage applications in Turkey. The main documents for marriage procedures for Russian citizens are as follows:

• Marriage License Certificate: It shows that the person is not prevented from getting married in his/her own country. Russian citizens can obtain this document from the Embassy or Consulate of the Russian Federation in Turkey. The document must include identity information, parents' names and marital status.
• Birth Certificate: If the marriage license is missing information such as mother and father's names, place and date of birth, a birth certificate from Russia must be presented.
• Passport: Original passport and notarized Turkish translation are required.
• Biometric Photograph: 4-6 biometric photographs taken within the last six months, with white background, in accordance with international standards.
• Health Report: The health report required for marriage is obtained from family physicians or public hospitals in Turkey and includes the result of a blood test for infectious diseases.
• Visa or Residence Permit: A valid visa or residence permit showing that the foreigner is legally present in Turkey.

Approval and Translation of Documents

All documents issued in Russia must go through an approval process to be valid in Turkey. If the documents bear an Apostille, they only need to be translated into Turkish by a sworn translator and notarized in Turkey.

If there is no apostille, the documents may need to be certified by the Turkish Foreign Representation in Russia. Complete and accurate preparation of the documents is critical for the marriage process in Turkey to go smoothly.

Marriage Process and Important Details

Once the documents are completed, couples apply together to the marriage office of the municipality where they reside. After reviewing the documents, the marriage declaration is filled out and a date is set for the wedding.

At least two witnesses must be present at the wedding ceremony. If the foreign spouse does not speak Turkish, a sworn translator must also be present during the ceremony. Only civil marriages are legally recognized in Turkey.

This guide is intended to provide general information on marriage procedures for Russian citizens in Turkey. As each case may be unique, it is important to seek professional support from a family law attorney to avoid making mistakes in the legal process and losing your rights.