30 Apr Civil Partnership in Greece: What It Is, How It Is Concluded, and the Rights It Provides
What is a Civil Partnership?
A Civil Partnership is a legally recognized agreement between two adult individuals, regardless of gender, offering an alternative form of family union to marriage. The institution was introduced by Law 3719/2008, initially applying only to opposite-sex couples, and was substantially modernized by Law 4356/2015 (“Civil Partnership, Exercise of Rights, Criminal and Other Provisions”), which extended its application to same-sex couples, enhanced its legal effects, and formally recognized family ties between partners. According to the law, a civil partnership is an agreement between two adults regulating their cohabitation.
It is concluded personally through a notarial deed and becomes legally effective upon its registration at the Registry Office (Lixiarcheio) of the partners’ place of residence, where it is recorded in a special register.
How to Conclude a Civil Partnership in Greece – Procedure and Legal Requirements
The conclusion of a civil partnership in Greece requires the mutual agreement of two adults through a notarial deed, offering a fast, streamlined process for the official legal recognition of their relationship.
Key requirements include that both parties must be over 18 years of age and must possess full legal capacity, meaning they are not placed under judicial support. The process involves personal appearance and signing before a notary public.
A civil partnership cannot be concluded where legal impediments exist, such as an existing marriage or civil partnership with another person, close blood relationship, or adoption ties between the parties.
Following the signing of the notarial deed, a copy must be filed with the Registry Office of the partners’ place of residence. The civil partnership becomes legally valid from the date of registration.
This procedure is considerably simpler and faster than marriage, as it does not require any ceremony or public announcement beyond the official registration.
The notarial deed may include customized provisions regarding property relations between the partners, within the limits of the law.
It is important to avoid fictitious agreements — those made without a genuine intention of cohabitation — as these are invalid. In cases of nullity or voidability, a court decision is required to annul the partnership, with retroactive effect.
Please note that annulment does not affect the legal paternity of children born during the partnership.
Rights and Obligations Under a Civil Partnership: Legal Protection and Practical Implications
Partners who enter into a civil partnership enjoy rights and obligations largely equivalent to those of married couples.
Law 4356/2015 expressly provides that the provisions governing personal relations between spouses under marriage law apply correspondingly to civil partners.
Thus, partners owe each other mutual obligations of cohabitation, fidelity, respect, and support, including joint residence obligations (Civil Code Art. 1386).
Each partner retains their surname after the conclusion of the civil partnership, although by mutual agreement, one may socially use or add the other’s surname, similar to married spouses.
Regarding property relations, the legal rules applicable to spouses apply correspondingly unless the partners agree otherwise by a separate notarial deed.
Partners can regulate matters such as the sharing of household expenses and contribution to family needs (Civil Code Art. 1389), while maintaining separate ownership of their individual assets unless they opt for a joint ownership regime (Civil Code Art. 1403).
Importantly, the law prohibits any advance waiver of participation rights in acquisitions, thereby protecting the financially weaker partner upon dissolution of the partnership. Moreover, civil partners are granted equal treatment to spouses in dealings with third parties and the state.
They are entitled to survivors’ pensions (Article 16 of Law 4387/2016), have the option (but not the obligation) to file joint income tax returns (Article 67(4) of Law 4172/2013), and qualify for family benefits, marriage leave, and participation in social insurance and employment programs, as confirmed by circulars issued by the Ministry of Labor.
Following the major legal reforms of 2015, civil partnerships in Greece offer couples almost full equivalence with the rights and obligations of marriage, making them a highly attractive and practical legal option for couples seeking official recognition of their relationship without the traditional formalities of marriage.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Karpouzis-Lianou & Associates Law Firm, our experienced legal team is here to guide you through every stage of the civil partnership process with professionalism, efficiency, and personal attention. Whether you are considering entering into a civil partnership or seeking personalized advice on how to tailor your agreement to your specific needs, we are ready to assist you. Contact us today for expert legal advice and tailored solutions that protect your rights and support your life plans.
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