So, you’re dreaming of a romantic wedding in Argentina? Maybe saying “I do” in the heart of Buenos Aires, among the vineyards of Mendoza, or against the breathtaking backdrop of Patagonia? Sounds like a dream! But before you start practicing your tango moves for the reception, let’s talk about the not-so-glamorous part—legal paperwork.
Yes, I know. Bureaucracy is the third wheel in every wedding. But don’t worry! I’ll walk you through everything you need with a mix of practical advice, a little humor, and a sprinkle of insider tips. By the end of this guide, you’ll be fully prepared to get legally married in Argentina—without wanting to pull your hair out.
Who Can Get Legally Married in Argentina?
Argentina is super welcoming when it comes to love. Whether you’re a local or a foreigner, you can legally marry here—even if neither of you are residents. And guess what? Argentina was the first country in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage back in 2010 (¡Viva el amor!).
There’s no need for a special visa or residency permit to marry, but you do need to spend some time in Argentina before the wedding for paperwork and appointments. More on that in a second.
Required Documents for a Civil Wedding in Argentina
Getting legally married in Argentina requires a few essential documents. Here’s your official wedding paperwork checklist:
✅ Passports and IDs – A valid passport for foreigners or a DNI for Argentinians. Some provinces may require a visa, so double-check.
✅ Birth Certificates (+ Apostille!) – Your birth certificate must be apostilled (a special international certification) and translated into Spanish by a certified translator in Argentina.
✅ Single Status Certificate (Certificado de Soltería) – A document from your home country proving you’re legally single. It also needs an apostille and translation.
✅ Divorce or Death Certificates (If Applicable) – If you’ve been previously married, you’ll need proof that the marriage has ended—either a divorce decree or a death certificate of your late spouse. Again, apostille and translation required.
✅ Proof of Address in Argentina – Some provinces ask for an address where you’ll be staying. A hotel, Airbnb, or a friend’s house will work.
✅ Two Witnesses – They must be over 18, present at your ceremony, and bring their IDs. If they’re foreigners, they may also need proof of legal entry into Argentina.
🚀 Pro tip: Some couples hire legal agents in Argentina to help with the paperwork. It’s not required, but if you want to speed things up, it can be worth it!
Step-by-Step Guide to the Marriage Process in Argentina
Step 1: Book Your Civil Ceremony
You’ll need to book an appointment at the Registro Civil (Civil Registry) in the city where you’re getting married. Some cities allow online bookings, while others require you to go in person.
👉 Buenos Aires couples, start here: Buenos Aires Civil Registry
Step 2: Submit Your Documents
Take all your paperwork (translated and apostilled!) to your Registro Civil at least a few weeks before your wedding date. This is also when you’ll confirm your witnesses.
Step 3: Wait for Approval
Once you submit everything, there’s typically a short waiting period—anywhere from a few days to a month—before your ceremony.
Step 4: Get Married!
Your civil ceremony will take place at the Registro Civil, but if you prefer a scenic location, you may be able to request a juez de paz (justice of the peace) to conduct it elsewhere. Argentina is flexible like that.
How Long Does It Take to Get Married in Argentina?
- Document Preparation: 2-3 months (apostilles + translations)
- Registry Appointment: Book at least 30 days in advance
- Waiting Period After Submission: 3-30 days
- Civil Ceremony: 10-30 minutes (plus a celebratory kiss and happy tears)
Best Wedding Locations in Argentina
Looking for the perfect backdrop for your wedding? Argentina has it all:
🏙️ Buenos Aires – The heart of tango, history, and elegant European architecture. A dream for city lovers.
🍷 Mendoza – Say your vows in a vineyard with the Andes in the background. Check out Mendoza Tourism for inspiration.
🏔️ Bariloche – Breathtaking lakes and mountains—perfect for nature-loving couples.
🌎 Ushuaia – Get married at “the end of the world” (literally).
💦 Iguazu Falls – If you want epic wedding photos, this is the place.
Religious & Symbolic Ceremonies
A civil wedding is the only legally binding ceremony in Argentina. But if you want a church wedding or symbolic elopement, no problem! Just remember that religious institutions may have extra document requirements, such as proof of baptism.
How to Get Your Marriage Recognized Abroad
Once you’re married, you’ll receive an Acta de Matrimonio (Marriage Certificate). If you need this recognized in your home country, you’ll likely need:
✅ An apostille from Argentina’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs
✅ A certified translation (if required by your country)
💡 Pro tip: Some countries require additional steps to register your Argentine marriage, so check with your local embassy before you leave.
FAQ: Common Questions About Getting Married in Argentina
❓ Can foreigners get married in Argentina?
✔️ Yes! You don’t need to be a resident. Just make sure you have all the required documents.
❓ How much does it cost to get married in Argentina?
✔️ Civil ceremonies at the Registro Civil are relatively inexpensive (around $50-100 USD). Private officiants and venue rentals will cost more.
❓ Do we need a lawyer?
✔️ No, but some couples hire one to help with the paperwork.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Capture Your Love Story in Argentina!
Argentina isn’t just a fantastic place to get married—it’s an incredible place to capture love stories. Whether you’re eloping in the vineyards of Mendoza, saying “I do” in a historic Buenos Aires mansion, or exchanging vows at the edge of a Patagonian glacier, your wedding deserves to be beautifully documented.
As a passionate destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing authentic, breathtaking moments that you’ll cherish forever. So while you handle the paperwork, let’s start planning how to make your wedding day visually unforgettable!
📸 Get inspired: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Explore wedding photography packages: Investment
💌 Let’s connect & make magic happen: Contact Me
✨ Ready to say ‘Sí, quiero’ in Argentina? Let’s make it unforgettable! ✨
