Guides

How to get married as fast as possible in Israel

October 13, 2022
6 min

Getting married in Israel can be a process that involves various requirements and procedures. It may involve gathering necessary documents, fulfilling specific conditions, and undergoing certain procedures. But if you need to get married quickly, there’s an option available that could make the marriage process faster.

With Courtly, couples can sign up for an account and choose a package that suits their needs, allowing them to get married in the comfort of their own home without the need for blood tests, premarital counseling sessions, or even leaving the house.

The Fastest Way to Get Married in Israel: Online Marriage

If you need to get married quickly in Israel, the fastest way is through online marriage. The process of online marriage is simple and efficient. To do this, you’ll need to apply for your marriage certificate online and submit the required fee. In addition, you will need to provide proof that both parties are over 18 years old, such as their driver's license number or passport number.

Using a service like Courtly can expedite the process even further. Courtly allows couples to complete the entire marriage process online from anywhere in the world. This means you can avoid the hassle of paperwork and lengthy procedures. With Courtly, it typically takes less than 48 hours to obtain a legal US marriage certificate, which can be used for legal recognition.

Green-leafed Plants on Gray Concrete Building with Israeli Flags

The Legality of Online Marriages in Israel

In recent years, there have been developments in the recognition of virtual marriages in Israel. An Israeli court ruling in 2022 recognized online civil marriages conducted in Utah, USA, as valid in Israel. This ruling opens up the possibility of online marriages being recognized in Israel, provided they meet certain criteria and fulfill the legal requirements set by the Israeli authorities.

When using Courtly, couples have the opportunity to obtain a legal US marriage certificate that is recognized in every country worldwide. It is important to note that every Courtly officiant is legally certified, ensuring the legitimacy of the marriage certificate. Additionally, for virtual couples, there is an option to have their marriage certificate signed with an apostille, which serves as an official certification of its legitimacy.

Importance of a U.S. Marriage Certificate in Israel

A U.S. marriage certificate holds significance in Israel as it can serve as proof of marriage both abroad and within Israel itself. 

Having a U.S. marriage certificate can simplify the process of visa applications and other immigration-related procedures in Israel. When applying for visas or seeking legal residency as a married couple, a recognized marriage certificate can provide official evidence of the marital relationship. This documentation can streamline the application process, potentially expedite immigration proceedings, and support the eligibility criteria for various immigration benefits and privileges.

Registering Your Online Marriage in Israel

All marriages in Israel, including online marriages, must be registered with the Ministry of the Interior. It is a legal requirement to register marriages in Israel, regardless of whether they were conducted online or offline.

Courtly provides a legal U.S. marriage certificate that is used to register the marriage in Israel. It is important to have the proper documentation, such as a recognized marriage certificate when registering for an online marriage in Israel.

For further clarification and guidance on the process of registering an online marriage in Israel, it is recommended to contact the officials from the Ministry of the Interior or consult with legal professionals, such as family lawyers]. They can provide accurate and up-to-date information regarding the registration process and any specific requirements that need to be fulfilled.

The Role of Apostille Certification

An apostille is a certification issued by the legal authorities of a state, confirming that a document issued by the state is official, authentic, and issued by the legal authorities. The purpose of an apostille is to authenticate and simplify the process of recognizing public documents in foreign countries. It confirms the validity and authority of the notarial documents and the signatures of public officials.

Courtly offers Apostille certification services, which can take approximately 15 to 30 business days to reach Israel. 

Applying for an Online Marriage in Israel

Courtly offers a convenient option for couples to complete the full marriage process online from any location, as long as they have a reliable internet connection. The process is straightforward and streamlined. Here is a revised description of the process with Courtly:

  • Courtly's concierge will assist you in obtaining your marriage license using their safe ID verification system. They will ensure that all necessary documents are in order and coordinate with the relevant authorities to ensure a smooth process.
  • Once your license is secured, you can choose a convenient time and date for your virtual ceremony. Courtly will then match you with one of their certified US officiants who will conduct the ceremony online.
  • You can have a simple and meaningful virtual ceremony in the comfort of your own home or any location of your choice, as long as you have a reliable internet connection. The ceremony itself is designed to be brief and typically lasts just a few minutes.
  • Shortly after your online ceremony, Courtly will provide you with a copy of your US marriage certificate online. This certificate confirms the validity of your marriage. Additionally, Courtly will ship a printed copy of your marriage certificate to your designated address within a few business days.

Courtly aims to make the online marriage process hassle-free and efficient, allowing couples to celebrate their special day in a convenient and personalized manner.

Cost of Online Marriage in Israel

The cost of getting married in Israel can vary depending on various factors such as the location, the authority conducting the ceremony, and whether you opt for a traditional or online wedding. Traditional weddings in Israel can be quite expensive, as they often involve costs such as the marriage license fee, blood tests, premarital counseling, and expenses related to the ceremony itself. The specific cost of the ceremony will depend on the location and the authority officiating the wedding.

On the other hand, opting for an online wedding can be a more cost-effective option. Courtly offers comprehensive packages that include everything necessary for a successful online marriage. For ILS ₪1,765, you can avail yourself of a valid marriage license, an online ceremony conducted by a certified officiant, and a legally recognized US marriage certificate. 

Additional fees may apply if you choose to include an apostille stamp or request witnesses for your online ceremony.

Traditional Marriage in Israel

Getting married in Israel typically involves several steps that need to be completed before the ceremony can take place. These steps often include obtaining a marriage license, undergoing a blood test, attending premarital counseling, conducting the ceremony, registering the marriage, and getting the marriage certificate apostilled.

Opting for an online marriage provides a hassle-free and quick wedding day experience. You can save money by avoiding expenses related to traditional wedding prerequisites, travel, and accommodations. Instead, you can simply stay at home and still have a meaningful and legally recognized marriage ceremony. Additionally, choosing an online marriage allows you to bypass the bureaucracy often associated with traditional, in-person ceremonies.

Conclusion

Online marriage offers a hassle-free and quick alternative to traditional weddings. With Courtly, you can easily complete the necessary steps and documentation online, eliminating the need for time-consuming tasks such as attending premarital counseling sessions or undergoing blood tests. The process is streamlined, allowing you to focus on celebrating your love and commitment.

Importantly, online marriages facilitated by reputable platforms like Courtly are legal and recognized by the authorities. These marriages comply with the necessary legal requirements, ensuring that your union is valid and legally recognized in Israel. This means you can enjoy the benefits and rights that come with a legally recognized marriage, such as inheritance rights, spousal benefits, and more.

Let us handle the paperwork.

Getting married is complicated. Courtly simplifies the process and provides everything necessary to get married online, including providing a licensed officiant who can perform a remote ceremony.

Get Married