Looking to skip the religious vows? A civil wedding abroad might just be the ticket!

Israel’s marriage laws are based on religious traditions, meaning civil weddings aren’t allowed. All marriages are handled by religious courts, which can create challenges for non-religious or interfaith couples. 

But here’s the good news—if you’re looking for a civil wedding, countries like Georgia and Abu Dhabi offer a simple solution, with marriages recognized in Israel. 

This blog will dive into marriage laws in Israel and show you the options available for couples seeking a civil wedding abroad.

Civil Marriage in Israel

Civil weddings are prohibited in Israel, meaning all marriages must follow religious laws. The government requires that couples marry according to the rules of their respective religious communities. 

This system does not allow for civil marriage ceremonies, often preferred by couples who wish to avoid religious influence.

Marriage in Israel is handled by religious courts, each governed by the couple’s faith. Jewish couples, for example, marry according to Jewish law, while Muslim, Christian, and Druze couples must marry under their respective religious authorities. 

As a result, non-religious couples or those from different faiths face challenges, as their marriage may not be recognized within Israel unless performed abroad. This means that civil weddings are not an option for those wishing to marry in Israel.

What Documents Do I Need to Marry in Israel?

To marry in Israel (or abroad for a civil wedding), you’ll require these documents:

• Declaration of Marital Status: This document confirms you’re single. Be prepared to submit supporting documents such as divorce or death certificates.

• Proof of Religion: Proof of your religion, such as a certificate from your community, is essential for the marriage process.

Marriage Options For Non-Religious Couples

For non-religious couples in Israel, the concept of a civil wedding doesn’t exist. Since the country adheres to religious marriage laws, secular couples who wish to marry must travel to places like Abu Dhabi and Georgia where civil weddings are allowed. 

These countries provide a much-needed option for those who prefer to marry without the involvement of religious courts.

In Israel, each religious community (Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Druze) manages its marriage laws through religious courts. Unfortunately, there’s no room for civil weddings within this system. 

Secular couples seeking to marry must look outside Israel, where civil weddings are legally recognized.

For couples from different faiths, Israel presents even more obstacles. A Jewish person marrying a non-Jewish person isn’t legally allowed in Israel. 

Therefore, the only viable solution for interfaith couples is to get married abroad, where civil weddings are accepted and recognized, providing them with a simple way to marry without religious interference.

Marriage Laws In Israel

• Civil Weddings Not Allowed: Israel doesn’t permit civil weddings; all marriages must be conducted through religious authorities.
• Same-Sex Marriage Restrictions: Same-sex marriages are not recognized in Israel, and couples need to marry outside the country for legal recognition.
• Required Documents for Marriage: Israeli citizens need valid passports and, if relevant, divorce or death certificates from previous marriages.
• Interfaith Marriage Restrictions: Religious authorities in Israel don’t recognize interfaith marriages; such couples must marry abroad to be legally married.

Marriage Procedures

In Israel, a civil wedding is not an option, so this is the required procedure for all religious marriages.

1. Application Submission: The first step to getting married in Israel is submitting your application to the relevant religious court based on your faith.
2. Provide Required Documents: If applicable, you’ll need to provide proof of identity (like passports) and proof of marital status, including divorce or death certificates.
3. Court Approval: After reviewing your documents, the religious court will approve your marriage.
4. Marriage Ceremony: Once approved, a religious official will lead the wedding ceremony according to your faith traditions.

Wedding Option in Israel in 2024 

If you’re in Israel and struggling to marry due to the political situation, you’re not alone. Israel doesn’t allow civil marriages, pushing many people to seek alternatives in other countries. 

An excellent option for Israelis who want a civil marriage is to head to Georgia or Abu Dhabu. Both options allow people from all over the world to get married civilly, and the best part? Civil weddings performed there are recognized in Israel, making it a top choice for those looking for an easy way to marry.

Say “I Do” the Easy Way!

Want a simple and stress-free wedding? Georgia and Abu Dhabi offers civil marriages that are recognized worldwide, including in Israel! Contact Easy Wedding, and we’ll handle everything for you. 

From the paperwork to the celebration, we have all the packages you need to make your big day unforgettable. Let’s get you married with ease!

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