Getting Married Abroad - The Legalities

Planning to tie the knot in a romantic destination overseas? Before you say 'I do', it's essential to understand the legalities involved in getting married abroad. The Global Wedding Planner is here to guide you through the process and ensure your dream wedding is legally recognized. Read on to learn about the legal requirements for getting married in Italy, Spain, and Greece, Mauritius, Maldives and France.

Legalities for Getting Married Abroad in Italy

Italy is a popular choice for destination weddings, but couples must navigate through a series of legal requirements to ensure their marriage is valid. From obtaining the necessary documentation to fulfilling residency requirements, The Global Wedding Planner can assist you every step of the way.

Legalities for Getting Married Abroad in Spain

Getting married in Spain as a foreigner involves specific legal requirements. Civil and Catholic ceremonies are legally recognized, but the process can be complex. For a civil marriage, at least one partner must have been a legal resident of Spain for six months or more. Required documents include valid passports, birth certificates, and proof of freedom to marry, all translated into Spanish by a certified translator2.

Catholic weddings are also legally binding, but both partners must be baptized Catholics, and extensive documentation is required. This includes baptism and confirmation certificates, as well as permission from your local parish4.

Given the complexities, many couples opt to complete the legalities in their home country and have a symbolic ceremony in Spain

Legalities for Getting Married Abroad in Greece

Getting married in Greece as a foreigner involves navigating specific legal requirements. Both civil and religious ceremonies are legally recognized, and you don't need to be a resident or citizen of Greece to tie the knot there. However, if one partner is a resident, they must hold a valid residence permit2.

Key steps include publishing a wedding notice in a local Greek newspaper at least eight days before applying for a marriage license. Required documents typically include valid passports, birth certificates with Apostille stamps, and proof of freedom to marry (e.g., a Certificate of Non-Impediment). All documents must be officially translated into Greek

Legalities for Getting Married Abroad in Mauritius

Getting married in Mauritius as a foreigner is a relatively straightforward process, but there are specific legal requirements to follow. Civil weddings in Mauritius are legally recognized internationally, provided you register the marriage in your home country afterward.

Key Requirements:

  1. Documents Needed:

    • Valid passports (with photocopies).

    • Birth certificates (re-issued within three months of the wedding date).

    • Return airline tickets.

    • Divorce or death certificates (if applicable).

    • Proof of name change (if applicable).

    • All non-English documents must be translated into English and officially stamped.

  2. Timeline:

    • Submit copies of all required documents to the Registrar of Births, Deaths, and Marriages in Port Louis at least six weeks before your wedding date.

  3. Witnesses:

    • You need at least two witnesses present. If you're traveling alone, many hotels can arrange witnesses for you.

  4. Residency:

    • You must be in Mauritius for at least one day before the wedding to finalize paperwork.

  5. Same-Sex Marriages:

    • Unfortunately, same-sex marriages and civil unions are not legally recognized in Mauritius.

Legalities for Getting Married Abroad in Maldives

Getting married in the Maldives as a foreigner involves unique considerations. Unfortunately, non-residents cannot have a legally binding marriage in the Maldives. Maldivian law requires both parties to be Muslim and for the marriage to conform to Islamic rites and laws2.

For non-Muslim couples, the Maldives offers the option of symbolic wedding ceremonies or vow renewals. These ceremonies are not legally recognized but provide a picturesque and memorable experience. Many resorts offer tailored wedding packages, including venue selection, decor, and catering2.

If you're looking for a legally binding marriage, you may need to complete the legalities in your home country or another jurisdiction before enjoying a symbolic ceremony in the Maldives

Ready to start planning your dream wedding abroad?

Contact AKH Travel Destinations today for expert advice and assistance.