Dreaming of saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, the ocean breeze in your hair, and a mariachi band playing in the background? 🌴🎶 Mexico is one of the most breathtaking wedding destinations in the world, but before you jump into planning your fiesta-filled celebration, there’s some legal stuff to take care of.
Getting married in Mexico as a foreigner isn’t as complicated as you might think—if you know what to expect. So grab a margarita, and let’s dive into everything you need to know: requirements, costs, paperwork, and the best wedding locations in Mexico!
💍 Step 1: Civil or Symbolic Wedding?
Before we get into the bureaucracy, you need to decide:
1️⃣ Civil Wedding (Legal and Recognized Worldwide)
- This is an official, government-recognized marriage.
- Requires paperwork, blood tests (yes, really!), and an officiant (a judge or justice of the peace).
- You’ll get a marriage certificate that is valid internationally.
2️⃣ Symbolic Wedding (No Legal Binding, Just Pure Romance)
- Great option if you handle the legal part at home first.
- More flexibility—have a friend or a shaman officiate!
- No paperwork, just love and celebration.
💡 If you want your marriage to be recognized back home, go for the civil ceremony!
📜 Step 2: What Are the Requirements for Foreigners to Get Married in Mexico?
Here’s what you’ll need to make it official:
✔ Valid Passports (both must be valid for at least six months).
✔ Tourist Cards (FMMs) – You receive this when entering Mexico.
✔ Birth Certificates (translated into Spanish and apostilled).
✔ Blood Tests (done in Mexico within a few days before the wedding).
✔ Four Witnesses (with valid IDs—if your friends can’t make it, local wedding planners can provide witnesses).
✔ Marriage Application (filed at the local Civil Registry).
✔ Divorce or Death Certificates (if applicable, proving you’re legally single).
💡 Blood tests? Seriously? Yep! Some Mexican states still require them to check for STDs and blood type compatibility. We promise it’s not a vampire test. 🧛♂️
⏳ Step 3: How Long Does the Process Take?
The paperwork usually takes a few days to a week to process. Some locations, like Cancun and Playa del Carmen, are faster, while others may require a longer wait.
💡 Pro Tip: Some states waive the waiting period for an extra fee, so ask your wedding planner about “fast-track” options.
💰 Step 4: How Much Does It Cost to Get Married in Mexico?
Wedding costs vary, but here’s a rough breakdown:
- Civil Ceremony Fees: $30 – $300 USD
- Blood Test: $30 – $150 USD per person
- Marriage Certificate: $50 – $150 USD
- Wedding Planner Services: $500 – $2,500 USD
- Photographer (ahem… me 😉): Check my wedding photography packages here!
💡 The total legal cost? Around $500 USD. But let’s be real, you’ll spend way more on flowers and tequila.
📍 Step 5: Best Places in Mexico to Get Married
Not all Mexican destinations are created equal when it comes to weddings. Here are the top picks:
🌊 For Beach Lovers:
🌆 For Culture & Colonial Charm:
- San Miguel de Allende – Cobblestone streets, colorful buildings.
- Oaxaca – Traditional Mexican beauty, mezcal tastings!
💡 Want a beach wedding but hate crowds? Try Isla Holbox or Bacalar—hidden gems!
🤯 Common Mistakes Couples Make (And How to Avoid Them!)
❌ Forgetting to translate and apostille documents.
✅ Do this before arriving to avoid last-minute stress!
❌ Not checking seasonal weather.
✅ Avoid hurricane season (June–November) unless you like surprises.
❌ Assuming you can get legally married at a resort easily.
✅ Many resorts only offer symbolic ceremonies—double-check before booking!
❓ FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
Can foreigners get married in Mexico without residency?
Yes! You don’t need to be a resident—just follow the legal requirements above.
Is a Mexican marriage legal in the U.S., Canada, or Europe?
Yes, but you may need to get your marriage certificate apostilled and translated when you return home.
Do we really need blood tests?
In most places, yes. But some Mexican states don’t require them—ask your planner for details.
How far in advance should we start planning?
Ideally 6–12 months in advance, especially if you’re booking a popular venue.
📸 Ready to Say “I Do” in Mexico? Let’s Capture It!
Your love story deserves to be captured beautifully. Whether you’re saying your vows on a hidden beach in Tulum or in a stunning colonial town, I’d love to help you preserve every magical moment.
👉 Let’s chat about your dream wedding photography! Contact me here, and let’s make magic happen. 💕
