Foreigners legally marry at the Foreigners’ Marriage Office of the Egyptian Ministry of Justice, usually in Cairo or Alexandria. This civil registration is the only marriage officially recognized by Egyptian authorities.
What documents are required for a legal foreign marriage in Egypt?
The usual documents include
- valid passports
- embassy certificate of no objection / no impediment
- proof of marital status
- medical certificate
- passport photos
- Arabic translations
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs legalization stamps
All foreign documents must usually be translated into Arabic and authenticated before filing.
Do both foreigners need to attend in person?
Yes. In most cases, both parties must personally attend the Ministry of Justice appointment to sign the marriage contract in front of the competent officer and witnesses.
Is a medical test required before marriage?
Yes. Both spouses usually need a premarital medical certificate from a government health office or hospital before the marriage can be officially registered.
How does the marriage become valid outside Egypt?
After signing, the marriage contract should be
- stamped by the Notary / registry office
- legalized by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- legalized by the foreign spouse’s embassy if needed