Getting Married in Prague - Step 1

Certificate of Marriageability




What is it and why do I need it?


This is an affidavit stating that you don't have fifty spouses all over the world - like when you were that village chieftain in Togo.




Cost

700 CZK




How and where do I get it? (US Citizens Only)


The US Embassy is open from 9am to 12 noon every weekday, but closed on every Czech and American holiday. Check a calendar!



The embassy is in Malá Strana at Tržiště 15. Just look for heavily armed men checking the bottoms of all cars trying to pass through with a mirror on a stick (also known as a "dirty ol' man cane").



Go straight in, with your passport out. If you see a line outside, don't get in it; this is probably for people trying to get a tourist visa. Go upstairs to the small side room and stand at the window.



Note: Your fiancé(e) must be present with proper identification. (A passport is best.)



I was in and out in 30 minutes, the first time; the second time took just five minutes.




Difficulty Rating

2 out of 10

(1 = Easy; 10 = Hair-Pulling Devilry)




Special Note

Take this opportunity to get an attachment for your original birth certificate that certifies that it's original. This is a notarization (also known as an apostille). It sounds ridiculous, but I was told on very short notice that it was necessary. It's free and written in both Czech and English.