Planning a Wedding in Italy from the UK: A Guide for UK Couples

Legal Requirements for UK Citizens to Marry in Italy

The good news is that Italy doesn’t require legal residency for marriage, making it an accessible destination for UK couples. However, you’ll need to provide specific documents:

•Valid passports for both partners.

•Birth certificates (originals or certified copies).

•Certificate of No Impediment (CNI): This document, issued by your local UK register office, confirms there are no legal barriers to your marriage. CNIs cost £35 and are valid for six months in Italy (or three months if issued in Scotland).

•Statutory declaration: Signed before a solicitor or notary in the UK, this document confirms your eligibility to marry.

•Translated and legalized documents: Your CNI and other paperwork must be translated into Italian and legalized by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

•Nulla Osta (optional): If you’re unable to obtain a CNI while in the UK, a Nulla Osta can be issued in Italy.

Once in Italy, submit your documents to the local town hall (comune) or parish where the wedding will take place. Civil ceremonies require at least three weeks’ notice, and your declaration of intent to marry must be posted for two consecutive weeks. For Catholic weddings, additional religious documents (such as baptism certificates and a letter of no impediment) are required, so plan well in advance.

How to Plan Your Wedding in Italy from the UK

1. Choose the Perfect Location

From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the lakeside charm of Lake Como or the coastal beauty of Amalfi, Italy offers a wealth of breathtaking venues. Civil ceremonies can be held in licensed locations such as historic town halls, castles, gardens, or villas, while Catholic weddings must take place in a church.

2. Hire a Wedding Planner

Working with a wedding planner in Italy can make the process significantly smoother. At Amoretti Weddings, based in the UK, we specialize in assisting UK couples by handling local logistics, recommending trusted vendors, and ensuring all legal requirements are seamlessly met. Additionally, our UK-based operations provide a unique cost-saving advantage: for many services, you won’t pay VAT, as invoices are processed directly through us, a UK company exempt from Italian VAT. In most cases, these savings can offset the cost of our services, effectively making our expert planning support free of charge.

Costs of a Wedding in Italy for UK Couples

The cost of a wedding in Italy varies depending on the location, guest count, and services you choose. Here’s a general breakdown of costs:

•Ceremony fees: €250–€900

•Wedding planner: €2,000–€8,000

•Venue hire: €2,000–€15,000

•Photographer: €1,000–€5,000

•Decorations: €4,000–€20,000

•DJ/music: €500–€1,500

•Catering (5-course meal with wine): €100–€220 per guest

By planning strategically, you can create a beautiful wedding in Italy that fits your budget while providing an unforgettable experience for your guests.

Tips for UK Couples Planning a Wedding in Italy

•Start the process at least six months before your desired wedding date to allow time for paperwork, translations, and legal formalities.

•Check the British Embassy in Rome or consular services for the latest information on marrying in Italy as a UK citizen.

•Consider travel logistics for your guests, including airport proximity, accommodations, and transportation.

Make Your Dream Wedding in Italy a Reality

Planning a wedding in Italy from the UK is a unique experience that combines romance, adventure, and meticulous preparation. By understanding the legal requirements and enlisting local support, you’ll ensure a seamless journey toward saying “I do” in one of the world’s most beautiful countries. Start your planning today and create memories that will last a lifetime!