{"id":24367,"date":"2025-12-28T09:15:48","date_gmt":"2025-12-28T09:15:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.italianlakeswedding.com\/blog\/?p=24367"},"modified":"2025-12-29T11:53:53","modified_gmt":"2025-12-29T11:53:53","slug":"same-sex-wedding-in-italy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.italianlakeswedding.com\/blog\/wedding-ceremonies\/same-sex-wedding-in-italy\/","title":{"rendered":"Same Sex Wedding in Italy: a practical guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

P<\/p><\/div> lanning a same sex wedding in Italy can feel overwhelming, especially if you live abroad.<\/strong>
\nIn 2016 Italy officially recognised legal civil unions for same sex couples. Since then, LGBTQ+ couples from all over the world have chosen Italy \u2013 and especially the Italian lakes \u2013 to celebrate their love. This article is not a legal document, but a friendly guide to help you understand how same sex weddings and civil unions work in Italy, which types of ceremonies are possible and how our team can support you in planning an inclusive and stylish celebration.
\nFor more inspiration you can also visit our dedicated website Italian LGBTQ+ Wedding<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Please note: this article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For official requirements you should always check with your consulate or a specialised lawyer.
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Photo courtesy by Alan Phillip<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n

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Photo courtesy by Francesco Gravina<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n

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Same Sex Wedding in Italy \u2013 a quick overview of the law<\/h2>\n

In Italy, same sex couples can enter into legal civil unions<\/strong> (unioni civili)<\/em> under Law 76\/2016<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

These unions offer many of the same rights as marriage in everyday life, such as inheritance, next-of-kin status and social security benefits.
\nHowever, there are still some differences between a civil union and a traditional marriage, especially regarding parental rights.<\/p>\n

Rules can also change over time, so we always suggest checking the latest information with your consulate or a specialised lawyer before starting the paperwork.<\/p>\n

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Photo courtesy by Alessandro Zingone<\/p><\/div>\n

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Photo courtesy by Alessandro Zingone<\/p><\/div>\n

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Same sex wedding in Italy: civil union or symbolic wedding?<\/h2>\n
    For your Italian celebration you can choose between two main options:<\/p>\n
  1. Legal civil union (unione civile)<\/strong>
    \nA civil union is a legally binding act. It usually takes place in a town hall or in another authorised venue, in front of a registrar and witnesses.<\/li>\n
  2. Symbolic wedding ceremony<\/strong>
    \nA symbolic ceremony is not legally binding, but it gives you full freedom in terms of timing, location and style. You can include personal vows, readings, music and rituals that reflect your story as a couple.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Many LGBTQ+ couples decide to complete the legal part at home, in their country of residence, and then celebrate a symbolic wedding in Italy with family and friends.
    \nOthers prefer to sign the civil union directly in Italy and combine it with a reception on the lakes.<\/p>\n

    Both options are possible \u2013 and our planners can help you choose the best solution for your situation.<\/p>\n

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    Photo courtesy by Franco Milani<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n

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    Where Can LGBTQ+ Couples Get Married in Italy?<\/h2>\n

    Italy is becoming more and more welcoming for LGBTQ+ destination weddings.<\/p>\n

    Around the Italian Lakes you can find:<\/p>\n