Partnership for same-sex couples (and the old registered partnership)

Since 2025 same-sex couples enter a 'partnership' under the Civil Code; registered partnership can no longer be newly formed.

What this actually is

Until the end of 2024, same-sex couples in Czechia could enter a registered partnership (registrované partnerství). From 1 January 2025 that route closed to new couples, and same-sex couples instead enter a partnership (partnerství) under the Civil Code. Partnership is formed at a registry office (matrika) and is close to marriage in most everyday respects — surname, property, inheritance and next-of-kin questions — but it is a distinct legal status and differs from marriage in some areas, notably aspects of adoption. Existing registered partnerships remain valid.

Who it applies to

Same-sex couples entering a partnership in Czechia where at least one partner is a foreign national.

When it's required

Allow several months, for the same reason as marriage: obtaining and legalising foreign documents takes the longest.

Step by step

1
Contact the matrika where you want the ceremony
The same registry offices handle partnership and marriage.
2
Ask for your document list in writing
As with marriage, it depends on the foreign partner's country and personal history.
3
Obtain proof of legal capacity from your own country
Some countries will not issue a document referring to a same-sex union. Tell the matrika early if that is your situation — they deal with it regularly.
4
Legalise and translate the documents
Apostille or superlegalisation as directed, then translation by a court-appointed translator.
5
Attend the ceremony with an interpreter if needed
The same interpreter requirement as for marriage applies where a partner does not understand Czech.

Documents to bring

Valid passports or identity documents for both partners
Birth certificates, translated and legalised as required
Proof that neither partner is already married or in a partnership
Proof of the foreign partner's legal stayCommonly requested
Divorce decree or death certificate of a former spouse or partner, if applicable

Who decides

Registry office (matriční úřad) of the municipality or Prague district where the partnership is entered into

Worth knowing

How a Czech partnership is treated abroad depends entirely on the other country's law. Czechia cannot answer that for you.
Where a partnership affects residence rights, the residence route is applied for separately — see the linked residence procedures.

Official information

Ministry of the Interior of the Czech RepublicOfficial source
gov.cz — establishment of a registered partnershipOfficial source
Czech public administration portal (gov.cz)Official source

Last checked: 11 September 2026

The legal differences between marriage and partnership have practical consequences, particularly around children. For anything that turns on those differences, take legal advice rather than relying on an orientation page.