Ugh, paperwork. It’s probably the least romantic part of planning a destination wedding, but if you’re dreaming of saying “I do” in Argentina, there’s no escaping it.
Between the tango, the Malbec, and the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia, Argentina is an incredible place to get married. But before you get lost in wedding bliss, let’s tackle the necessary documents—apostilles, translations, and all the legal nitty-gritty—so you can walk down the aisle stress-free.
If this sounds overwhelming, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine—no judgment), and let’s dive in!
Step 1: What Is an Apostille, and Why Do You Need It?
An apostille is basically an international stamp of approval for your documents. Think of it as a VIP pass that lets foreign paperwork be recognized as legal in Argentina.
If you’re a foreigner getting married in Argentina, you’ll likely need to apostille:
✅ Your birth certificate
✅ A certificate of no impediment to marriage (a fancy way of saying you’re not already married)
✅ A divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable)
📍 Where to Get an Apostille?
Each country has its own process:
- USA: The Secretary of State of the state where the document was issued
- UK: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
- Canada: Doesn’t issue apostilles (you’ll need a different legalization process)
💡 Pro Tip: Apostille processing times vary (from a few days to a month), so start early!
Step 2: Official Translations – Because Spanish Is Not Optional
Great, you’ve got your apostilled documents. Now, Argentina wants them translated into Spanish by a certified sworn translator.
And no, your bilingual cousin who studied Spanish in college won’t cut it. The translation must be done by a professional registered with the Colegio de Traductores Públicos de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires (CTPCBA).
📍 Where to Find a Sworn Translator?
You can check the official list here: www.traductores.org.ar.
💡 Pro Tip: Some registries require translations weeks in advance, so don’t leave this for the last minute!
Step 3: Submitting Your Documents at the Civil Registry
Once your documents are apostilled and translated, you’ll need to submit them at the local Registro Civil (Civil Registry) where you plan to get married.
📍 If you’re getting married in Buenos Aires, you can check the official requirements here: www.buenosaires.gob.ar/tramites.
If your wedding is in Mendoza, Bariloche, or another dreamy Argentinian location, contact the local civil registry for details.
Step 4: Timelines – How Early Should You Start?
Here’s a rough timeline to help you plan:
📜 Apostille process: 1-4 weeks (depends on your country)
📜 Translation in Argentina: 1-2 weeks
📜 Document submission: Some registries require everything at least 30 days before the wedding
💡 Ideal Start Time? Begin the paperwork process at least 3-4 months before your wedding to avoid last-minute stress.
What If You’re Running Out of Time?
Oops. You got caught up in wedding planning and forgot about the paperwork? It happens. Here’s what you can do:
🔹 Expedited apostille services – Some countries offer rush processing for an extra fee.
🔹 Ask your translator for priority service – Many sworn translators offer express translations (but it’ll cost more).
🔹 Check if your country has an agreement with Argentina – Some documents may be exempt from apostille requirements.
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them!)
🚨 Mistake #1: Assuming your documents don’t need an apostille
Even if your home country has agreements with Argentina, always double-check.
🚨 Mistake #2: Using an unofficial translator
Your high school Spanish won’t cut it. Only sworn translators are accepted.
🚨 Mistake #3: Submitting documents too late
Argentinian bureaucracy can be slow. Plan ahead!
Bonus: What Else Should You Know About Weddings in Argentina?
💃 Wedding traditions – Did you know that in Argentina, bridesmaids pull ribbons from the wedding cake, and one has a hidden ring inside? The one who gets it is said to be the next to marry!
🍷 Wine country weddings – Mendoza, with its world-famous Malbec and stunning vineyard views, is a dream destination for wine-loving couples.
📸 Best photo spots – From the colorful streets of La Boca in Buenos Aires to the snow-capped mountains of Patagonia, Argentina is a paradise for wedding photography.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Do I need an apostille for marriage in Argentina?
✅ Yes, all foreign documents must be apostilled before use in Argentina.
❓ Where can I get my wedding documents translated in Argentina?
✅ You must use a sworn translator registered with the Colegio de Traductores Públicos.
❓ How far in advance should I prepare my documents?
✅ Ideally, 3-4 months before your wedding to avoid last-minute stress.
Final Thoughts: Focus on the Fun Part!
Yes, paperwork can be a headache, but once it’s out of the way, you can fully enjoy the excitement of your Argentinian wedding adventure.
Imagine exchanging vows with the Andes mountains as your backdrop, dancing the night away in Buenos Aires, or sipping wine under the stars in Mendoza.
And while you handle the legal details, I’d love to be there to capture every special moment of your wedding day!
📸 Check out my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
📷 Find the perfect photography package: Investment
💌 Let’s chat and make magic happen: Contact
Because your love story deserves to be told beautifully. 💕
