Getting Married in Italy as a U.S. Citizen: A Guide

Q: What can be used in place of the missing certificate of no impediment to marriage?

A declaration (nulla osta/Declaration) from the U.S. Consulate in Italy, plus an atto notorio, subsequently legalized by the prefecture.

Q: What is an atto notorio?

An affidavit stating that there are no impediments to marriage—filed with an Italian court or the consulate, often in the presence of two witnesses.

Q: How long is the nulla osta valid?

Usually about 3 months, but 6 months in Rome.

Q: Do I need an apostille?

For U.S. documents such as birth certificates, an apostille may be required depending on the circumstances; a translation into Italian is also often required.

Q: Do I have to live in Italy for the wedding?

No, a tourist visa is sufficient. However, getting married does not automatically change your immigration status.

Q: How much time should I set aside?

Realistically, it takes about half a year from gathering the documents to the wedding ceremony.

Q: What can be used in place of the missing certificate of no impediment to marriage?

A declaration (nulla osta/Declaration) from the U.S. Consulate in Italy, plus an atto notorio, subsequently legalized by the prefecture.

Q: What is an atto notorio?

An affidavit stating that there are no impediments to marriage—filed with an Italian court or the consulate, often in the presence of two witnesses.

Italy is one of the most popular wedding destinations for Americans—though the paperwork is a bit more involved than for EU citizens. Since the U.S. does not issue a certificate of no impediment to marriage, you’ll need another form of proof. This guide explains the process step by step and how much time you should allow.

The difference: no U.S. certificate of no impediment to marriage

The U.S. does not Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (nulla osta). Instead, proof that there is no impediment to marriage is provided by filing a declaration with the U.S. Consulate in Italy and a affidavit. The guide provides a comprehensive overview Getting Married in Italy.

The Process, Step by Step

Nulla osta / Declaration at the U.S. Consulate sign in Italy (for a fee),
in addition, a affidavit submit (affidavit, with witnesses if necessary),
the consular certificate issued by the Italian Prefecture (Prefecture) legalize let,
U.S. documents, such as a birth certificate, as needed, with Apostille label and translate.

A bride and groom embrace against a lush Italian backdrop

Getting Married in Italy: The Process and Required Documents for Foreigners

July 12, 2026

Getting Married in Italy: Civil and Religious Weddings, Nulla Osta (Certificate of No Impediment), Publication of Banns (Pubblicazioni), Required Documents, Interpreters, and Wedding Witnesses.

Validity & Schedule

The nulla osta is usually round Valid for 3 months (6 months in Rome). Expect a total of about half a year From gathering the necessary documents to visiting the consulate and prefecture, all the way to the wedding ceremony. For the ceremony, you'll need two witnesses and a Interpreter, if you don't speak Italian.

Getting Married as a Tourist—and Your Stay

You don't have to live in Italy to get married; a tourist visit is enough. Important: Getting married changes your Residence status is not automatic. If you'd like to stay after the wedding, please arrange your residence permit or visa separately.

What You Need to Do Next

Schedule an appointment at the U.S. Consulate, plan affidavit and Legalization by the Prefecture and let US documents Apostille and translation – ideally with about six months' notice. The guide will help you with a permanent move Emigrating to Italy as a U.S. Citizen.