Getting married in Spain can be a wonderful experience, offering beautiful locations and a vibrant culture. Here’s a brief guide to help you navigate the process:
1. Legal Requirements
Residency:
- No Residency Requirement: You don’t need to be a resident to get married in Spain, but you must meet certain legal requirements.
Documents Needed:
- Passports: Valid passports for both parties.
- Birth Certificates: Certified copies, often translated into Spanish.
- Certificate of No Impediment: This document confirms that you’re free to marry. It may need to be translated and legalized.
- Proof of Address: A document showing your current address.
- Divorce or Death Certificates: If previously married, provide divorce decrees or death certificates of former spouses.
Legalization:
- Apostille: Documents often need to be apostilled (a form of international verification) and translated into Spanish.
2. Apply for a Marriage License
Civil Marriage:
- Apply at Local Registry: Submit the required documents to the Civil Registry in the town where you plan to marry.
- Interview: You may need to attend an interview to verify your intentions and documents.
Religious Marriage:
- Additional Requirements: If marrying in a church, coordinate with the local parish and meet any additional requirements.
3. Marriage Ceremony
Civil Ceremony:
- Location: Can be held at a municipal building or other approved venue.
- Witnesses: Usually, two witnesses are required.
Religious Ceremony:
- Church: If choosing a religious ceremony, ensure you fulfill all church requirements and have the ceremony conducted by an authorized clergy member.
4. Marriage Certificate
Obtain Certificate:
- After the Ceremony: You’ll receive a marriage certificate (Certificado de Matrimonio) from the Civil Registry.
- Translations: For use outside Spain, you may need to have the certificate translated and apostilled.
5. Legalizing the Marriage Abroad
Recognition:
- Home Country: Check if you need to register or validate the marriage in your home country for it to be legally recognized.
6. Additional Tips
- Language: If you don’t speak Spanish, consider hiring a translator or bilingual wedding planner.
- Planning Ahead: Start the process well in advance to account for any delays or additional paperwork.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and legally valid marriage in Spain while enjoying the country’s stunning scenery and rich culture.