Legal Process & Ceremony Venues
Malta Wedding Guide – Part 1
Expert Advice from a Wedding Planner in Malta
Malta has become one of the most sought-after destination wedding locations in Europe—and for good reason. With its Mediterranean climate, English-speaking locals, rich history, and superb value for money, it’s an ideal spot for couples dreaming of a beautiful wedding abroad.
To give you the most accurate insider insight, we’ve asked Martina, an expert wedding planner Malta specialist from Wed Our Way, to take you through everything you need to know when planning your celebration.
In Part 1 of this four-part Malta Wedding Guide, Martina explains:
- The legal requirements for getting married in Malta
- How to personalise a civil ceremony
- Your options for both religious and civil wedding venues, including exclusive hidden gems
Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Malta
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Malta for your destination wedding is the ease of the legal process. Couples from all over the world can legally marry in Malta without residency requirements.
Malta is also a same-sex marriage–friendly country, with civil unions legalised in 2014 and full equal marriage rights now recognised.
The wedding ceremony is by default performed in English, and both religious and civil ceremonies are legally binding.
Required Legal Documents
You will be required to produce the following documents:
- Original full birth certificates (long form) for both partners, showing parents’ names
- Free Status Certificate (or 3rd Party Declaration for UK couples)
- Translations and Apostille stamps where required
- Request for the Publications of the Banns (provided by the Public Registry or your wedding planner)
- Declarations on Oath for both partners (notary/solicitor stamped)
- Copies of passports for both partners and two witnesses
For religious weddings, be sure that you check with your parish for any guidelines you must follow as well. For Catholic ceremonies you will need to supply documentation to the Chancellory, which after approval is sent to the Curia in Malta. For Anglican ceremonies you will need to contact the Chaplaincy to make arrangements.
Timing Guidelines
Most of the above documents must not be dated more than 3 months before your wedding date. Your application must be submitted no later than 6 weeks before the ceremony.
Legal Administration Fees for Weddings in Malta
- Civil ceremony administration fee at Marriage Registry: €76.95
- Civil ceremony administration fee Outside Marriage Registry: €102.60
- Religious marriage fee: €51.30
- Curia administration fee (for church weddings): €120
- Additional cost for transportation of the registrar if the civil ceremony is not at the Public Registry
Fees November 2025
Personalising Your Civil Ceremony
Civil ceremonies in Malta typically last 10–15 minutes and follow a legal script. However, you can personalise your ceremony by:
- Adding up to two readings
- Writing your own personal vows
These must be submitted at least 3 weeks before the wedding.
👉 Learn More Legal Requirements For Getting Married in Malta
Religious Wedding Ceremony Venues in Malta
If you’re planning a religious ceremony, Malta offers two Anglican cathedrals and 359 Catholic churches, each with its own charm and setting.
Below are some of Martina’s most recommended venues for Catholic and Anglican weddings.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady – Chapel (Mellieha)
Located in the north part of the island, in the small picturesque village of Melieha, this chapel is one of the most beautiful and popular venues for religious weddings in Malta.
Why it’s a top pick:
View:
The sea views from the church front patio are spectacular.
Size:
The chapel can fit up to 100 people yet it will feel cozy even with group of 20.
History:
This is one of the oldest chapels in Malta with lots of history behind it. The Crypt of Our Lady of Melieha was originally one of the many natural caves found around the northern part of the island.
St. Paul’s Cathedral – Mdina
Located in Mdina, also well known as the “Silent City,” this cathedral offers a dramatic, historic backdrop.
Why couples love it:
Grandiose & luxurious feel:
If you wish to impress your guests right from the beginning of your wedding day, this cathedral is a great pick for a church ceremony. St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the biggest cathedrals in Europe.
Location:
Located in the silent city of Mdina (former capital of Malta), it is one of the top places for you and your guests to visit during your stay in Malta.
Setting:
It provides a beautiful background for your wedding photos, with narrow, lime stone alleys of Mdina that make the location of this church one of the best picks for your post wedding photographs.
St. Paul’s Pro-Cathedral – Valletta
Highlights:
Exception:
Highly popular with British couples.
Location:
Situated in the UNESCO-listed capital, Valletta.
Style:
Elegant and unique architectural style.
Civil Wedding Ceremony Venues in Malta
Civil ceremonies in Malta can be held in a wide variety of approved venues, including:
- Hotels and restaurants
- Public gardens
- Castles and palaces
- Local councils
- Cruise liners
- Approved beach areas
- Villas and private estates
- Churches (for civil blessings or ceremonies where authorised)
Below are some of Martina’s most recommended venues.
Villa Bologna
A beloved venue for both ceremonies and receptions.
Why it’s special:
- Secluded “secret garden” atmosphere.
- Perfect for elegant, vintage-inspired weddings.
Insider tip:
Villa Bologna has two gardens:
- For weddings before 5 PM in summer, the shaded Dolphin Garden is ideal.
- For later ceremonies, the Nymphaeum Garden offers a stunning limestone aisle.
Saluting Battery (Valletta)
Located in Valetta, it’s breathtaking sea-view venue overlooking the Grand Harbour.
Insider tip:
Plan a photoshoot in Upper Barrakka Gardens after the ceremony, or treat guests to a Valletta tour before the reception.
Quadro Terrace
Beautiful sea-view venue suitable for smaller destination weddings of up to 60 guests.
Why couples love it:
- Elegant décor and hidden photo spots.
- Beautiful Mediterranean Sea views.
- Ideal for post-ceremony drinks and canapés.
Palazzo Parisio
A luxurious 19th-century palace ideal for couples seeking opulence.
Highlights:
- Stunning ballroom and ornate gardens.
- Rich history and lavish décor.
- One of Malta’s most prestigious venues for destination weddings.
Explore More: Malta Destination Wedding Guides
Part 1 of our Malta Destination Wedding Guide gives you everything you need to understand the legal process and ceremony options—setting the foundation for a beautifully planned wedding abroad.
In the upcoming parts of the guide, we cover:
Part 2: Cost of a Wedding in Malta
Part 3: Planning Timeline & Logistics
Ready to Start Planning?
If you’d like help narrowing down your options or arranging a venue visit, use the form below to connect with experienced local planners or reach out directly to Martina and her team at Wed Our Way. Her local expertise can help you find the perfect wedding venue in Malta to match your vision, guest list, and budget.
Before You Book Your Wedding Venue in Malta
Choosing your dream wedding venue in Malta is a big decision and asking the right questions can make all the difference. Before you confirm your booking, make sure you:
- Understand exactly what’s included in your venue package (and what’s extra).
- Check whether your chosen venue offers exclusive use or shared spaces.
- Confirm sound, catering, and timing restrictions in advance.
- Ask about wet-weather plans, ceremony options, and setup times.
- Clarify all costs and payment terms before signing any contract.
👉 Dive Deeper Key Questions to Ask When Choosing Your Wedding Venue
Images – Wed Our Way
Contact Wedding Planners in Malta
At Weddings Abroad Guide, we work with a group of experienced wedding planners who can help bring your unique celebration to life. If you’re looking for expert guidance, simply fill in the short form below and your enquiry will be forwarded to trusted planners who work across Malta and Gozo
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