If you’ve started planning your wedding and you’re getting married in church, you’ve probably already heard about premarital courses. This step still raises questions, myths, and sometimes even a little apprehension among couples. Are they really compulsory? What are they for? What do online premarital courses involve? How much does a premarital course cost in Spain? In this UAUU article, we clear up all your doubts with up-to-date information and practical advice, so you know what to expect and how to prepare.
What are premarital courses?
**Premarital courses** are a short training course, required in most cases for couples wishing to get married in the Catholic Church. Their goal is to help engaged couples reflect on the meaning of marriage, the commitments it entails, and the everyday challenges of life as a couple.
They’re not just a formality: the courses aim to help future spouses get to know each other better, talk through expectations, values and life projects, and understand the spiritual and social meaning of marriage. They also offer tools for dealing with the main challenges of living together and building stronger, more conscious relationships.
Are premarital courses compulsory?
Whether or not you need to take them depends on the type of wedding and religious denomination. To marry in the Catholic Church in Spain, **premarital courses** are **mandatory**. It’s a canonical requirement: without this certificate, you can’t get married in church.
For civil weddings, these courses are not necessary, although some parishes offer them to any couple who wants to work on key aspects of their relationship.
Each diocese or parish may have specific criteria (format, duration, online or in-person), but the requirement for the certificate is standard throughout the Catholic Church in Spain. In other Christian denominations or religions, similar courses may be required, although their characteristics may vary.
What do you learn in a premarital course?
The content of **premarital courses** varies depending on the parish or centre, but they usually cover the main issues facing couples: communication, conflict resolution, sexuality, family planning, raising children, financial management, spirituality, and the meaning of the sacrament of marriage.
Alongside theoretical talks, many courses include group activities, testimonies from experienced married couples, and space for dialogue between the couple. The aim is to provide real tools for cohabitation and open the door to important conversations before taking the step.
Online premarital courses: are they valid?
In recent years, **online premarital courses** have become more common, especially since the pandemic. Many dioceses have set up digital platforms or remote formats to make it easier for couples who, for work, residence or scheduling reasons, can’t attend in-person sessions.
Are these online courses valid? Yes, as long as they are officially recognised by the diocese or parish where you’re getting married. It’s essential to check with your priest or parish contact if they accept the online certificate and what requirements they set (registration, following sessions, submitting work, final interview, etc.). Not all online courses are accepted: always make sure the centre is authorised.
The online experience is usually flexible, with videos, downloadable materials and questionnaires, but it also requires real commitment and honest participation. Some couples appreciate the convenience and flexible pace; others prefer the interaction and guidance of in-person courses.
Price of premarital courses in Spain
The **price of a premarital course** can vary depending on the parish, diocese or centre running it. In most cases, in-person courses have a symbolic cost (between €20 and €60 per couple) to cover materials, organisation and overheads.
Online premarital courses are usually similar or slightly higher in price (up to €80 in some authorised platforms), especially if they include personal tutoring or extra materials. Some parishes or organisations offer courses for free as part of their pastoral work.
Our advice: check with your parish, ask about available options and choose the format that suits you best. Remember, the certificate is required to process the marriage paperwork, and the aim is not just to “tick the box” but to make the most of the experience as a couple.
Frequently asked questions about premarital courses
- Are premarital courses compulsory for church weddings? Yes, in Spain it’s a requirement for a canonical wedding. Without the certificate, you cannot complete the marriage paperwork.
- How long does a premarital course last? It varies by parish: from intensive weekend sessions to several weeks of weekly meetings.
- What if a couple lives in different cities? They can request an online premarital course or do it separately in their respective locations and present both certificates. It’s essential to notify the parish where the wedding will be held.
- Can you do the course in a different parish? Yes, but you must submit the certificate to the parish where you’ll get married. Always check the requirements in advance.
- What if you don’t “pass” the premarital course? It’s not an “exam”, but active and responsible participation is expected. If a couple does not attend or fails to complete the work, the parish may withhold the certificate until all stages are finished.
Tips for getting the most out of premarital courses
- Go in with an open mind: even if some content is familiar, the real value is in the dialogue and joint reflection.
- Take an active part: ask questions, share experiences and listen to other couples. The strength of the course is in genuine exchange.
- Choose the format that suits you best: in-person, online or blended, always recognised and validated by the diocese.
- Keep the certificate and all paperwork: you’ll need it for the marriage paperwork and, in many cases, to reserve your wedding date.
- Don’t leave the course until the last minute: sign up early, check available dates and plan your marriage paperwork in advance.
Conclusion: premarital courses, a necessary and useful step
Taking a **premarital course** is a must for a church wedding, but it’s also a chance to strengthen dialogue and connection as a couple. Whether you choose in-person or **online premarital courses**, the goal is to help you prepare for marriage in a realistic and thoughtful way.
At UAUU, we encourage you to make the most of the experience, clear up any doubts, share concerns and grow as a couple before the big day. Remember, the real value of the course isn’t just the certificate, but everything you take away in learning and reflection.