Polish-Ukrainian wedding – what is worth knowing before you say “yes”?

In recent years, an increasing number of international couples have been choosing to marry abroad – including in Ukraine. For many, this is not only a natural choice based on their partner's place of residence, but also a way to simplify formalities and avoid long waits. Such a wedding can be organized quickly, legally, and without unnecessary hurdles, but it requires knowledge of a few important rules. What should you know before marrying a Ukrainian citizen?

Formalities – faster than in Poland?

Unlike many other European countries, Ukraine allows for marriage to be concluded very quickly. This is precisely why many people choose this option, seeking solutions without unnecessary bureaucracy. However, it's important to remember that a simple process doesn't mean a complete lack of formalities.

For Poles, the first step is gathering the appropriate documents. All of these materials must be officially translated and often notarized. If you're unsure what exactly to prepare, it's worth checking out this practical guide: Polish-Ukrainian wedding documents .

Is a wedding concluded in Ukraine valid in Poland?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions. The ceremony itself and the issuance of a marriage certificate in Ukraine do not guarantee automatic recognition of the union in Poland. For a marriage to be valid under Polish law , it must be concluded in accordance with the regulations in force in the country where the ceremony took place and then registered with the Polish registry office. Detailed information can be found here: Is a marriage concluded in Ukraine valid in Poland ?

Important: Poland does not recognize polygamous marriages entered into by minors (under 18) or those that do not meet legal criteria. Therefore, if one of the future spouses had a previously registered marriage, a legally binding divorce decree or death certificate of the previous partner is required.

Legal aid – is it worth it?

While theoretically everything can be done independently, many people choose to enlist the help of a law firm or company specializing in international weddings. This solution is especially useful when time is of the essence, we don't want to risk errors in the documentation, and we need assistance with translations or registration in Poland.

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