Best Marriage Lawyers in Alanya
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List of the best lawyers in Alanya, Turkey

Avukat Sibel Demiral / Alanya Avukat Bürosu

Ergun & Ergun Hukuk Burosu
TUNCAY & BARCIN LAW OFFICE
About Marriage Law in Alanya, Turkey
Marriage in Alanya, Turkey, is governed by national Turkish civil law, which applies throughout the country. In Turkey, marriage is a civil contract regulated mainly by the Turkish Civil Code, and only civil marriages performed by local registrars (marriage officers) are legally recognized. While religious or cultural ceremonies may be important for families, only civil marriages are valid under Turkish law for all official matters.
Alanya, a popular city on the Mediterranean coast, attracts many local and international couples wishing to marry. The local authorities, known as the Municipality Registrar (Belediye Evlendirme Memurluğu), are responsible for overseeing marriage applications and ceremonies, ensuring compliance with Turkish legal requirements.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
There are various situations in which individuals may benefit from legal assistance in relation to marriage in Alanya:
- One or both partners are foreign nationals and need guidance on the legal requirements for foreigners to marry in Turkey.
- There are questions about prenuptial agreements, division of property, or inheritance rights.
- Either party was previously married and requires assistance with documentation or proof of divorce.
- Complex legal matters arise, such as name changes, adoption of children, or issues related to citizenship and residence permits.
- Assistance is needed in preparing and translating documents into Turkish according to official requirements.
- Counsel is desired in the process of registering a marriage that took place abroad, or in the recognition of an international marriage in Turkey.
Local Laws Overview
The following key points summarize essential aspects of marriage law that are relevant in Alanya, Turkey:
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old (exceptions exist for younger individuals with court approval).
- Marriages must be performed in the presence of a marriage officer and two adult witnesses.
- Proof of capacity to marry (such as single status certificates and health reports) are required for both parties.
- Divorcees must provide official proof that their previous marriage(s) have legally ended, with waiting periods in some cases.
- Foreigners must provide additional documentation, often including passports, birth certificates, certificates of non-impediment or no objection, and possibly other documents—all officially translated and notarized
- Consular or embassy authentication may be necessary for foreign documents.
- Only monogamous civil marriages are recognized by Turkish law. Polygamous and same-sex marriages are not legally permitted.
- There are special regulations for marriages between Turkish citizens and non-Turkish citizens, especially related to citizenship, property, and residency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do foreigners need to get married in Alanya?
Foreigners typically require their passports, birth certificates, certificate of no impediment (proof of being single/divorced/widowed), health report from a Turkish medical facility, photos, and proof of legal entry. All non-Turkish documents should be translated into Turkish and notarized or apostilled as appropriate.
Can two foreigners marry in Alanya?
Yes, two non-Turkish citizens can marry in Turkey as long as they meet the legal requirements, provide the necessary documentation, and complete the civil marriage procedure with the local registry office.
Is a religious ceremony sufficient for legal marriage in Turkey?
No, religious ceremonies are not legally recognized. Couples must have a civil marriage conducted by an authorized marriage officer for it to be legally valid.
What is the legal age for marriage in Alanya, Turkey?
The minimum age for marriage is 18. Exceptions exist for individuals aged 17 with parental consent, or 16 with both parental consent and court approval.
How long does the marriage process take?
The process varies depending on documentation and individual situations but can usually be completed in a few weeks, assuming all required documents are available and in order.
Is it necessary to publish marriage banns or announce the marriage?
No, Turkish law does not require the publication of banns or a public announcement prior to the marriage ceremony.
Do I need to be resident in Alanya to get married there?
No, residency is not required. Non-residents, including foreigners, may marry in Alanya as long as the necessary documents from their country of residence are provided and authenticated.
Can I change my surname after marriage?
Yes, women may choose to take their spouse's surname, keep their own, or use a hyphenated version. A lawyer can provide guidance on the required procedures for name changes in official documents.
What happens if I was previously married?
You need to provide official proof of divorce or the death of your previous spouse. Foreign documents must be translated and properly authenticated for use in Turkey. Sometimes a waiting period applies before remarriage.
Are prenuptial agreements recognized in Turkey?
Yes, marital property regimes, including prenuptial agreements, are recognized if properly executed under Turkish law. Consulting a legal professional is advisable to ensure validity and protection of your rights.
Additional Resources
If you need more information or assistance on marriage matters in Alanya, consider contacting or consulting the following resources:
- Alanya Municipality Marriage Office (Alanya Belediyesi Evlendirme Memurluğu)
- Turkish Civil Registry Offices (Nüfus Müdürlüğü)
- Consulates or Embassies of your home country in Turkey
- Ministry of Justice of Turkey (Adalet Bakanlığı) for information about family and marriage laws
- Local bar associations offering a list of qualified family law attorneys
- Professional translation and notary offices in Alanya for assistance with document preparation
Next Steps
If you are considering marriage in Alanya or require legal assistance related to marriage, follow these steps:
- Identify your objectives and any concerns you might have regarding marriage in Turkey.
- Gather all personal documents, such as birth certificates, proof of identity, and any relevant documents about previous marriages or legal status.
- Contact your embassy or consulate to verify which documents are needed and how to authenticate them.
- Consult the Alanya Municipality Marriage Office for a checklist of local requirements.
- If your situation is complex or you are unsure about documentation, legal status, or property matters, seek help from a local lawyer specializing in family and marriage law.
- Arrange for translation and notarization of any documents not originally issued in Turkish.
- Book an appointment with the appropriate authorities to submit your marriage application.
- If you choose to formalize property or inheritance arrangements, discuss prenuptial contracts with your lawyer before marriage registration.
- Ensure you receive official marriage certificates after the ceremony, as these may be needed for other legal matters in the future.
Taking the right steps and consulting qualified professionals will help ensure that your marriage in Alanya complies with all legal requirements and protects your rights.
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.