Do you know the legal requirements for saying I do? When it comes to destination weddings, paperwork is rarely the first thing on a bride’s mind—but it’s one of the most important. Every country has its own rules for marriage, and missing a requirement can cause big headaches.
Here’s what you should know:
1. Residency Requirements
Some destinations require you to arrive a certain number of days before your wedding. (Example: Mexico often requires 2–3 days of residency before you can legally marry.)
2. Documentation
Birth certificates, passports, divorce decrees, and sometimes even blood tests may be required. Documents often need to be translated and notarized.
3. Religious vs. Civil Ceremonies
In some countries, religious ceremonies are not legally binding—you’ll need a civil ceremony as well.
4. Symbolic Ceremonies
Many couples choose to handle the legal marriage at home and have a symbolic ceremony abroad. This allows more flexibility and less red tape.
💡 Bride Tip: Always check requirements at least a year in advance so there’s no last-minute scramble.
✨ At JEK Travels, we guide brides through the paperwork maze so you can focus on the fun parts of planning.
