So, you’ve fallen in love—not just with your partner but also with Peru’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and maybe even its pisco sours. And now, you’re thinking: Why not make it official here?
Great choice! But before you start dreaming about saying I do with llamas as your witnesses, there’s one small thing to handle first: Peruvian bureaucracy. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with this fun and practical guide to getting married in Peru as a foreigner.
Can Tourists Get Married in Peru?
Yes! You don’t need to be a resident to get legally married in Peru. Whether you’re eloping in Cusco, planning a beach wedding in Paracas, or celebrating with a lavish ceremony in Lima, you can get legally married on a tourist visa. The only catch? You’ll have to navigate some paperwork first.
Legal Marriage Requirements in Peru for Foreigners
Alright, here’s where the magic of Peruvian bureaucracy comes in. To make your wedding legal, you’ll need:
📜 Valid Passports – Because, obviously.
📝 Birth Certificates – Officially translated into Spanish and legalized (either by the Peruvian consulate in your home country or with an apostille).
🛑 Single Status Certificate (Certificado de Soltería) – A document proving you’re not already married (unless you’re a bigamist, in which case… awkward). Your embassy may issue it, or you may need to get one from your home country and have it legalized.
🏥 Medical Examination – Some municipalities require a pre-marriage blood test (yes, really).
👀 Residency Requirement (Varies) – Some cities require you to stay in Peru for a few weeks before getting married. Check with the local municipality (or use your charm to convince them otherwise).
🤵 Witnesses – You’ll need two witnesses (who aren’t family members) to sign your marriage license.
Where to Register Your Marriage in Peru?
Marriage in Peru is registered through local municipalities, so your first stop should be the Municipalidad (City Hall) of your wedding destination. Popular locations include:
📍 Lima: Municipalidad de Lima – Perfect for urban weddings with ocean views.
📍 Cusco: If you want a mystical wedding near Machu Picchu, Cusco’s municipality handles the paperwork.
📍 Arequipa & Sacred Valley: Stunning colonial churches and scenic nature for the ultimate romantic backdrop.
Each municipalidad has slightly different rules, so check in advance to avoid surprises!
Civil vs. Religious Weddings in Peru
1️⃣ Civil Wedding (Legal Requirement)
- Only civil marriages are legally recognized.
- Usually takes place at the municipality office.
- Some municipalities allow on-location ceremonies for an extra fee (beach wedding, anyone?).
2️⃣ Religious Wedding (Optional, But Beautiful!)
Want a stunning Catholic wedding in a historic church? You’ll need:
- Baptism & Confirmation Certificates
- Premarital Counseling
- A letter from your home parish allowing you to marry in Peru
Other religious ceremonies are possible, but you’ll need to check with your officiant about the requirements.
Best Wedding Destinations in Peru for Foreigners
🌿 Cusco & Sacred Valley – Magical Inca landscapes
💍 Ideal for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers
📸 Picture this: Saying I do with the Andes Mountains behind you.
🏝 Paracas & Huacachina – Desert & ocean vibes
💍 Ideal for: Boho & luxury weddings
📸 Picture this: A wedding in the sand dunes at sunset, followed by a yacht party.
🌊 Lima & Miraflores – Chic city wedding with ocean views
💍 Ideal for: Modern, elegant couples
📸 Picture this: A ceremony on a rooftop overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
🏰 Arequipa – Historic colonial charm
💍 Ideal for: Couples who love history & old-world romance
📸 Picture this: A grand wedding in a 17th-century monastery.
How Long Does It Take to Get Married in Peru?
From gathering documents to final approval, the process can take 1-2 months. If you’re on a tight schedule, start the paperwork ASAP!
Checklist: Getting Married in Peru as a Foreigner
✅ Translate & Legalize Documents (Birth Certificate, Single Status Certificate)
✅ Medical Exam (if required)
✅ Find a Municipality & Submit Paperwork
✅ Schedule a Wedding Date & Arrange Witnesses
✅ Celebrate! 🎉
FAQ: Foreigners Getting Married in Peru
❓ Can I get married in Peru on a tourist visa?
✅ Yes! Just follow the document requirements.
❓ Do I need a lawyer?
✅ No, but a notary can help check your paperwork.
❓ Can I use my Peruvian marriage certificate abroad?
✅ Yes, but you’ll need to apostille it before taking it home.
Final Touch: Make Your Wedding Photos Unforgettable
Imagine this: Golden light over Machu Picchu, waves crashing in Lima, or a first kiss under the Sacred Valley sky. Your wedding photos should be just as magical as your love story.
That’s where I come in! As a destination wedding photographer, I capture the joy, the love, and the once-in-a-lifetime moments that make your wedding uniquely yours.
📷 Check out my wedding stories: Blog
💍 See my photography packages: Investment
📩 Let’s plan your dream wedding photos: Contact Me
Now go forth and get married in Peru—you’ve got this! 💃🕺🎉
