Troubled by civil marriage in Iran? The fix could be found in a neighbouring country.

Under Iran’s Islamic legislation, civil marriage is disregarded, compelling couples to resort to Sharia marriage for legal recognition.

This drives many Iranians to seek civil marriage solutions in other countries that accommodate their personal or religious preferences without affecting their legal standing in Iran and elsewhere.

This blog analyses the statistics, choices, and legal impacts of civil marriage in Iran and its Sharia counterpart.

Statistics on Iranian Marriage Requests in the UAE

Easy Wedding’s data from October 2023 to October 2024 shows a 50% rise in Iranian marriage requests, highlighting an increased preference to marry outside Iran.

Cross-border marriages, especially between the UAE and Georgia, dominate, with 82% involving an Iranian and a non-Iranian partner and 18% being Iranian couples.

Preferred Wedding Destinations

46% of these couples choose the UAE as their top destination, followed by Georgia at 24% and virtual weddings selected by 23%, indicating a shift towards digital ceremonies. Approximately 7% choose other locations or have mixed preferences.

Types of Weddings Chosen

Most couples, 75%, choose civil marriage in Iran settings in Georgia or Abu Dhabi. Traditional weddings account for just 5%, while religious ceremonies, including Sharia marriages (Nikah), make up 4%, showing limited demand.

Religious Backgrounds of Couples

About 12% of the weddings are between Muslim brides and Christian grooms, while 32% involve both partners being Muslim, indicating a continuing preference for same-faith marriages.

Moreover, 7% are Muslim brides with partners from different religions, and only 4% of non-Muslim couples choose the UAE for civil marriage in Iran.

Approvals for Interfaith Marriages

Notably, 16% of men apply for permission to marry non-Muslim women, demonstrating a growing acceptance of interfaith marriages.

This highlights the changing perspectives towards civil marriage in Iran and legal considerations for Iranians marrying abroad.

Wedding Options for Iranians Outside Traditional Boundaries

If you’re Iranian and prefer to marry outside traditional frameworks, there are two fundamental options. Firstly, obtaining a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi is straightforward and recognised internationally, involving little paperwork and no religious requirements.

Although a civil marriage in Iran is not possible, Iranians can opt for a Shariah marriage within Iran, respecting religious protocols. Alternatively, Georgia is a favourite for those considering a civil marriage in Iran at an international venue due to its simplified approach and the need for local residency.

Georgia and the UAE are chosen for their stunning natural scenery and mature wedding industries, making them attractive wedding destinations.

Marriage Legalisation in Iran

For those wishing to legalise their marriage in Iran, it’s essential to understand that only Shariah marriages are recognised. Engaging in a civil marriage in Iran is considered illegal and could result in adultery charges.

Hence, complementing a civil marriage in Iran with a Shariah wedding is necessary and essential for the marriage to be acknowledged legally within the country.

Marriage Legalisation in the US

The US legally acknowledges all marriage types, including Shariah and civil marriage in Iran, performed in Iran. This recognition aids couples who plan to marry and relocate, using their status to secure US residency and sponsorship.

Conversion if One of the Partners is Non-Muslim

Concerning marriage in Iran, the regulations stipulate that if a Muslim bride is to marry a non-Muslim groom, conversion to Islam is necessary. If the roles are reversed, and the groom is Muslim, the non-Muslim bride from an Abrahamic faith need not convert.

Despite restrictions on civil marriage in Iran, opting for a marriage abroad allows couples to avoid these religious prerequisites, providing flexibility in choices of civil marriage in Iran.

Sharia Marriage Requirements

• Marriage age in Seychelles is eighteen for both genders.
• Only needs bride’s guardian consent.
• Muslim groom, non-Muslim bride: Imam acts as bride’s guardian.
• Non-Muslim groom, Muslim bride: Groom must convert to Islam; civil wedding possible without conversion.

Civil Marriage Requirements

• Couples must be at least 18 years old; under 18 requires parental or guardian consent.
• Provide passports (with photos), birth certificates, divorce decrees, and death certificates (if applicable).
• Documents must be in English or French, except for passports.
• Give the appropriate office or court 11 days’ notice before the wedding.
• Two witnesses must be present and sign the marriage certificate.
• The marriage will be in English or French conducted by an official.

Celebrate Love Simply with Easy Wedding! 

Are Iran’s strict marriage laws dampening your wedding plans? Discover our court wedding packages and make your special day seamless.

If you’re considering a civil marriage in Iran or looking at options in Georgia or the UAE, Easy Wedding can expedite your journey.

Don’t let bureaucracy slow you down—call us today, and let us take care of the particulars, so you focus on your love.

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