Civil Wedding in Switzerland – What Couples Should Know & How We Capture This Special Day
In Switzerland, the civil wedding is not just a legal formality — it’s often an intimate, emotional, and beautifully meaningful milestone. For many of our couples, it’s either the main celebration or the heartfelt beginning of a multi-day wedding experience.
At Kuenzli Photography, we love capturing the quiet magic of these moments: the anticipation, the light in historic registry halls, the exchange of vows in front of your closest loved ones. This is where the real story begins.
In this guide, we walk you through everything you need to know about getting married civilly in Switzerland, the most photogenic registry offices around Zurich, Basel, and beyond, and tips for making your civil wedding unforgettable and picture-perfect.
1. How Civil Weddings Work in Switzerland
Before your civil wedding, you’ll need to go through a pre-marriage procedure at the local registry office (Zivilstandsamt) in the municipality where one of you resides. Here’s a quick overview:
Application: Submit your request in person at your local Zivilstandsamt
Documents Needed:
Valid passport or ID
Certificate of civil status or birth certificate
Proof of residence or residency permit (for non-Swiss citizens)
Costs: Typically CHF 300–500, depending on the canton
Timeline: Once approved, the ceremony must take place within three months
Tip: Registry offices can book up quickly, especially for popular dates or if you're planning a photo session or apéro. Early booking is essential!
2. Most Photogenic Civil Wedding Locations in Switzerland
Civil ceremonies can be just as emotional and atmospheric as grand celebrations — especially in stunning locations. These are some of our favorite spots for stylish, intimate weddings:
A historic guild house in Zurich’s old town, overlooking Münsterhof. With soft blue walls, chandeliers and elegant wood-paneled ceilings, it's ideal for timeless portraits.
This regal hall in the heart of Basel features warm wood floors, antique lighting and a classic, sophisticated feel. Perfect for stylish city weddings.
A Renaissance gem by the Reuss River. Large windows, wooden interiors and views of the Chapel Bridge create a magical, storybook-like atmosphere.
Registry Office Saanen – Gstaad
Charming Alpine interiors and breathtaking mountain backdrops make this spot a dream for winter weddings or couples who love nature.
Registry Office Ascona – Ticino
Mediterranean vibes meet Swiss elegance — just steps from Lake Maggiore. A stunning choice for a summer celebration.
External Ceremonies
In some cantons, civil weddings can be held at external venues like castles or gardens. Think: Château de Raymontpierre. These are rare, but worth asking about. We’re happy to guide you.
3. How We Photograph Your Civil Wedding
Though shorter, civil weddings are often incredibly emotional and personal. We approach them with the same artistic detail as full-day celebrations:
Our coverage typically includes:
Getting ready moments (if applicable)
Arrival at the registry office
Ceremony (vows, ring exchange, first kiss)
Congratulations & apéro
Couple portraits in natural light near the venue
We work discreetly and emotionally, focusing on gestures, light, texture and storytelling. We don’t just capture what happened. We preserve how it felt.
4. Photography Tips to Make the Most of Your Civil Wedding
Plan a "First Look" before your couple session — it's always emotional and gives space to connect before the ceremony
Do your couple shoot before the ceremony — you'll look fresh, and the light is often better earlier in the day
Ask guests to form a Spalier (guard of honor) outside the registry office — it’s a perfect highlight photo moment
Sit down for the signing — never sign documents while standing, as it often leads to awkward angles in photos
Keep it personal — from handwritten vows to a custom bouquet, small details go a long way
