Passport or identity document
Valid identification for each partner. For most non-resident international couples, this will be a valid passport.
The right documents make the route possible
Document requirements depend on your citizenships, residence, marital status and country of issue. We review your case and give you a clear checklist before filing.
There is no universal document list for every couple
International marriage cases are document-sensitive. Two couples with similar plans can need different documents because their countries issue different certificates, apply different legalisation rules or record names and marital status differently.
Documents commonly required
The exact list depends on the case, but many international couples should expect to prepare these types of documents.
Birth certificate
A birth certificate for each partner, issued according to the rules of the country of origin.
Certificate of matrimonial capacity or no impediment
A document confirming that a partner is legally able to marry. Some countries do not issue a suitable certificate for same-sex cases.
Previous marriage documents
If either partner was previously married, divorce certificates, court decisions, death certificates or other documents may be required.
Translation
Documents not accepted in their original language may need certified translation into Portuguese.
Apostille or legalisation
Documents issued abroad may need apostille or legalisation, depending on the country and document type.
Interpreter
If one or both partners do not understand Portuguese, an interpreter may be required for the official appointment.
What if our country does not issue a suitable certificate?
This is common in same-sex marriage cases. Some countries do not allow same-sex marriage and therefore do not issue a standard certificate of matrimonial capacity for that purpose. In those cases, the document route must be assessed carefully.
Translation, apostille and legalisation
The registry must be able to rely on foreign documents. Depending on the country and document, that may require an apostille, consular legalisation or certified translation.
Do not translate or apostille everything before your case is reviewed. Incorrect, expired or unnecessary documents can create extra cost and delay.
If one of you was previously married
Previous marriages are not a problem by themselves, but the end of the previous marriage must be documented correctly.
Name spelling matters
International documents often show names differently across passports, birth certificates, translations and previous civil status documents. Differences should be identified before filing.
What we review before filing
valid identity documents
birth certificates
capacity certificate or alternative route
previous marriage documents
translation needs
apostille or legalisation needs
name and date consistency
interpreter needs
possible additional legal handling
Not sure which documents you need?
Start with a case review. We will tell you what applies before you prepare unnecessary documents.