Cuba
Cuba is a dream destination for couples seeking not just a legal union but the magic of a Caribbean sunset ceremony infused with the island’s vibrant spirit. Foreigners are allowed to legally marry in Cuba, but there’s a catch: the process requires time and patience, particularly when it comes to documentation. Bureaucracy in Cuba tends to move slowly, but if you’re prepared to be patient and organized, the experience can be smooth and truly unforgettable.
The ceremony itself is conducted in Spanish, though it’s possible to hire a translator. After the ceremony, the official marriage certificate is not issued immediately – it typically takes 3–4 months. Once received, the certificate must be translated, legalized, and then registered with your home country’s civil authorities.
Documents needed for foreigners to get married
To get legally married in Cuba, couples must prepare the following documents:
- A valid international passport.
- Birth certificate.
- Certificate of marital status (if never married).
- Divorce decree (if previously married).
- Marriage certificate and death certificate of spouse (if widowed).
All documents must be translated into Spanish, notarized, and legalized through the Cuban consulate in your home country. Important: If you are divorced, the decree must explicitly state that it is «final and absolute.» You must also arrive in Cuba at least three days before the ceremony.
Official marriage registration and outdoor wedding ceremony for a foreign couple in Georgia
Cyprus
Cyprus is another great option for foreign couples wishing to get married with a minimum of red tape. It has a year-round wedding season, as the sun shines 320 days a year. Cyprus is ideal for those who dream of a wedding on the seashore. It’s no wonder this destination is becoming an increasingly popular wedding destination, thanks to its stunning coastal locations and easy legal process.
However, it’s important to stay realistic. Due to high demand, especially during peak wedding season, the best venues can be difficult to book and come with a premium price tag. Even outside of high season, you should expect wedding costs in Cyprus to remain on the higher end. If you’re working within a limited budget – and the paperwork already feels exhausting – Cyprus may not be the most cost-effective choice, despite its beauty and simplicity.
Documents needed for foreigners to get married
To legally marry in Cyprus, foreign nationals will need the following documents:
- Valid international passports for both partners (must be valid for at least 6 months).
- Birth certificates.
- An affidavit (a sworn statement of freedom to marry, notarized).
- Divorce decree or death certificate of a previous spouse, if applicable.
- Copies of passport photo pages (for both the couple and their witnesses).
- A special marriage license (issued locally by the municipality).
- All documents must be apostilled and translated into English or Greek.
A minimum stay of 3 days before the ceremony is required. Keep in mind that all documents must be officially translated and properly legalized in accordance with Cypriot regulations.
Lopota Lake – the perfect location for your wedding in Georgia
Portugal
Portugal has become a beloved destination for international couples, and for good reason. There’s no residency requirement, and couples can submit their marriage application online, saving time and stress. Add to that the beautiful cities with their striking architecture and a mild, pleasant climate almost year-round, and it’s easy to see why so many choose to get married here. That said, the application review process can take 2 to 4 weeks, and the documentation requirements are strict. During peak travel seasons, major cities can be extremely crowded with tourists, so if you’re aiming for a peaceful, intimate wedding, it’s best to plan ahead and factor in these seasonal dynamics.
Documents needed for foreigners to get married
To get legally married in Portugal, foreign couples must provide the following documents:
- Valid passports for both partners.
- Birth certificates issued no more than 6 months before the wedding date, with an apostille or legalization.
- Certificate of No Impediment (proving both partners are free to marry).
- Divorce decree or death certificate of a former spouse, if applicable.
- Name change certificate, if applicable.
All documents must be translated into Portuguese and notarized. The application must be submitted to the Civil Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Civil) in the location where the wedding will take place. Once submitted, the process typically takes about one month to complete.
Wedding in the mountains of Georgia for foreign couples from all over the world
Las Vegas (USA)
Las Vegas is a world-famous destination for couples who want a fast and exciting marriage experience. You’ve seen it in the movies – couples arrive and get married within hours. And yes, it really is that simple and emotional, which is why Vegas has become an iconic wedding destination. This opportunity isn’t just for U.S. citizens – foreign couples can also legally marry in Las Vegas. If you’re looking for a bold, fun, and instantly recognizable location for your big day – even a ceremony in a casino – Vegas might be the perfect fit. That said, keep in mind that traveling to the U.S. may require time, visas, and additional costs, depending on your country of origin. Also, it’s worth noting that Las Vegas welcomes all couples, regardless of gender – it’s a modern and inclusive destination for marriage.
Documents needed for foreigners to get married
To get legally married in Las Vegas, foreign couples will need:
- Valid passports for both partners.
- A Marriage License, which costs around $110. The license must be obtained in person at the Clark County Marriage License Bureau, though the application can be filled out online in advance.
The minimum age for marriage is 18. Both parties must be legally free to marry at the time of application. No medical exams or certificates are required. The license is valid for one year from the date of issue. The ceremony must be conducted by an officiant licensed in the state of Nevada, and at least one witness is required. Most wedding chapels provide a witness free of charge if needed.
Full wedding planning in Georgia for foreign partners
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic attracts international couples with its relatively straightforward bureaucracy compared to other European countries, and of course, with its fairy-tale-like venues straight out of a storybook. Historic castles, charming old towns, and the romantic atmosphere of Prague make it an unforgettable setting for a wedding.
However, there are some important considerations. Foreign couples typically need a Schengen visa to enter the country, and the document preparation and legalization process can take time and must be handled with care. In addition, weddings in historic Prague venues aren’t cheap – just the ceremony alone often costs over €1,000, not including flights, accommodation, or extra services. If you’re dreaming of a storybook wedding, be prepared for both the logistical effort and the financial investment that come with it.
Documents needed for foreigners to get married
To legally marry in the Czech Republic, foreign couples must prepare a set of documents and complete a few formal steps:
- Completed Honeymooners’ Questionnaire.
- Copy of the passport page with a photograph.
- Copy of national ID/passport indicating marital status (if applicable).
- Notarized birth certificate.
- Power of attorney (if a representative is handling the documentation process in the Czech Republic).
- If previously married – divorce decree or death certificate of a former spouse, with an apostille.
Additionally, depending on your nationality, extra documents may be required, such as a Certificate of No Impediment issued by your embassy. Important: All documents issued outside the Czech Republic must be officially legalized (with an apostille or equivalent), and copies must be notarized. Proof of legal stay in the country is also required (e.g., police registration for long-term stays). It’s strongly recommended to contact the local registry office in advance to confirm the exact list of required documents and steps.
Beautiful wedding in Georgia for foreign couples from around the world
Iceland
Iceland is a one-of-a-kind wedding destination where fire meets ice. Reykjavík attracts couples with its surreal natural landscapes and mystical atmosphere – and since 2010, same-sex marriages have been fully legal here, making it a welcoming and inclusive choice for LGBTQ+ couples. You can plan your wedding just a few days after arriving, with no long waiting period. However, there are important requirements to consider: foreign couples must gather a full set of documents, have them translated and apostilled, and ensure all paperwork meets Iceland’s legal standards. Foreign nationals must also provide proof of legal stay in Iceland, such as a valid visa or residence permit. If you’re ready to navigate a bit of bureaucracy, Iceland will reward you with a truly unforgettable wedding experience – one where glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes form the backdrop to your vows.
Documents needed for foreigners to get married
- To get legally married in Iceland, foreign couples will need the following:
- Declaration of intent to marry (submitted in advance).
- Valid passports.
- Birth certificates.
- Certificate of No Impediment, issued in the country of residence and no older than 12 weeks.
- Divorce decree or death certificate, if previously married.
All documents must be translated into Icelandic, English, or a Scandinavian language and legalized with an apostille. If your country does not issue a Certificate of No Impediment, you’ll need to obtain official confirmation of that fact and submit a sworn written statement declaring your current marital status. You must also provide proof of legal stay in Iceland, such as a visa or residence permit. Additionally, you’ll need to list the contact details of at least two witnesses for the marriage ceremony. Once your paperwork is reviewed and approved, you’ll be assigned a date and location for your ceremony, allowing you to create a truly unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Château Mukhrani – one of the favorite wedding venues in Georgia among foreign couples
All of these countries offer great options for legally registering your marriage abroad. But in our view, none compare to Georgia when it comes to the perfect balance of natural beauty, simplicity, and atmosphere. Georgia is more than just a destination – it’s a place where dreams become reality, where the marriage registration process for foreigners is straightforward, and where weddings are free of stress and red tape. The marriage registration application can be completed quickly, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quick wedding without complications. The warmth of local hospitality will stay with you long after the ceremony is over.
If you’re looking not just to get legally married, but to create an unforgettable celebration in a magical country filled with heart, culture, and stunning backdrops, choose Georgia. Contact Kate&Co Weddings, and let us make your wedding day truly yours – special, vibrant, and stress-free. We’ll take care of everything, so you can simply enjoy every moment of your big day. Your perfect wedding is waiting.