Iranian American Marriage: Exploring Marriage Requirements for 2024
Planning a civil marriage in Iran? You might be surprised—legal recognition could require going international.
In Iran, Islamic laws do not recognise civil marriage, necessitating a Sharia marriage for legal validation of a couple’s union.
This limitation has led many Iranians to seek civil marriage options outside Iran that align with their personal or religious views, maintaining legal recognition both domestically and internationally.
This article analyses the statistics, alternatives, and legal ramifications of civil marriage in Iran and Sharia marriages.
Statistics on Iranian Marriage Requests in the UAE
From October 2023 to October 2024, there was a 50% rise in marriage requests from Iranians at Easy Wedding, indicating a preference for marrying outside their homeland.
This increase predominantly stems from the popularity of cross-border marriages between the UAE and Georgia, with 82% involving couples of mixed nationality and 18% being Iranian pairs.
Preferred Marriage Locations
The UAE remains the top wedding location for 46% of these couples, with Georgia a close second at 24%. Virtual weddings are chosen by 23%, indicating a rising preference for digital ceremonies. The remaining 7% have varied choices or prefer other locales.
Wedding Choices
Civil marriages are overwhelmingly popular, chosen by 75% of couples in Georgia or under Abu Dhabi’s jurisdiction. Traditional larger weddings are less favoured, comprising only 5%. About 4% opt for religious settings like Sharia (Nikah) ceremonies.
Religious Dynamics of Couples
Interfaith unions are increasingly common, with 12% being unions between Muslim brides and Christian grooms. Couples where both partners are Muslim make up 32%, showing that traditional same-faith marriages are still prevalent.
Additionally, 7% of applications come from Muslim brides marrying outside their faith, but only 4% of non-Muslim couples select the UAE for their civil marriage in Iran.
Permits for Interfaith Marriages
It’s noteworthy that 16% of men are applying for permits to marry non-Muslim partners, highlighting a growing acceptance of interfaith unions. This trend indicates evolving approaches to civil marriage in Iran and managing legal requirements across borders.
Pathways for Iranians to Marry Internationally
Iranians planning to marry outside traditional systems have two primary paths. The first is through a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi, which is noted for its simplicity and wide recognition, requiring little documentation and no religious prerequisites.
While civil marriage in Iran is not acknowledged, Iranians can alternatively engage in a Shariah marriage within Iran according to religious guidelines. Georgia is an excellent choice for those looking to execute a civil marriage in Iran style abroad due to its streamlined procedure and no residency requirement.
The allure of Georgia and the UAE extends beyond their ease of marriage procedures to include their stunning landscapes and robust wedding industries, which are preferred for destination weddings.
Marriage Legalisation in Iran
In Iran, the only legally endorsed form of marriage is the Shariah marriage, making any civil marriage in Iran legally void and subject to legal action like adultery charges.
It is crucial for couples having a civil marriage in Iran also to plan a Shariah wedding, which aligns with the country’s legal norms and religious expectations.
Marriage Legalisation in the US
Marriage in the US includes all forms, recognising civil marriage in Iran and Shariah marriages if legally registered in Iran. Couples can use this to their advantage when applying for US sponsorship and residency, facilitating a move overseas with spouses.
Conversion if One of the Partners is Non-Muslim
The rules for marriage in Iran involving non-Muslim partners are stringent. A non-Muslim groom must convert to Islam when marrying a Muslim bride.
However, if a Muslim groom marries a bride from a Christian or Jewish background, conversion is not required.
Though civil marriage in Iran is not recognized, marrying outside of Iran offers freedom from these constraints, making civil marriage in Iran more appealing abroad.
Sharia Marriage Requirements
- Conducted under Sharia law for all.
- Couples must attend court or home ceremonies.
- The bride’s guardian must give consent.
- Requires two male Muslim witnesses.
Civil Marriage Requirements
- Bring original Kuwaiti Civil IDs and copies for the bride, groom, and witnesses.
- Provide original Passports and photocopies for the bride, groom, and witnesses.
- Obtain a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) for both bride and groom from their embassies, stamped by Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Let Easy Wedding Handle Your Wedding Woes!
Daunted by the strict requirements of civil marriage in Iran? Our court wedding packages make it easier to have an unforgettable day.
Whether it’s a civil marriage in Iran or considering Georgia or the UAE, Easy Wedding makes it fast and straightforward.
Don’t stress over the details—get in touch today, and let us take care of the logistics while you focus on your love story.
FAQs
Can an Iranian marry a US citizen?
Yes, an Iranian and a U.S. citizen can marry. This can be arranged through civil marriage in Iran equivalents in Abu Dhabi or Georgia, or they may choose to follow Sharia marriage laws if that suits them.
Can a Muslim and a Christian get married in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Yes, with two choices: conversion to Islam for a Sharia marriage or a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi, similar to a civil marriage in Iran, which is suitable for interfaith couples.
Can an American-Iranian couple get married in Abu Dhabi if one partner is Muslim?
If the groom is Muslim, they can have a Nikah and proceed with civil formalities, making the marriage valid by Islamic and civil law. This contrasts with a civil marriage in Iran, which would require religious adherence.
How can I move to the US with my partner if I am Iranian?
Applying for a K-1 fiancé(e) visa or a spousal visa is necessary through U.S. immigration.
Do you get a visa if you marry an American?
Yes, if you marry a U.S. citizen, you could be eligible for a spousal visa or a green card.
Do you lose U.S. citizenship if you marry an Iranian?
No, marrying an Iranian will not impact your U.S. citizenship status.
Does Iran allow civil marriage?
No, only Islamic Sharia law marriages are recognized in Iran.
How to get married in Iran with my foreign partner?
You can have your partner convert and marry under Sharia law in Iran, or choose a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi or Georgia.
What are the requirements for marriage in Iran?
The requirements for a Sharia marriage in Iran include a valid passport, a Power of Attorney (POA) from the bride’s father, the Wali (guardian)’s presence, and additional local Islamic authority approvals.
How can I marry my American partner?
You can marry your American partner through a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi or Georgia. If you prefer Islamic law (Sharia) and you’re Muslim, a Nikah ceremony will be required.
