So, you’ve fallen in love—not just with each other, but with the stunning landscapes of Peru. Maybe you’re dreaming of exchanging vows against the backdrop of Machu Picchu, a historic church in Cusco, or a romantic beach in Paracas. But before you can say “Sí, acepto!” and ride off into the Andean sunset, there’s one little thing to handle—the paperwork.
Yes, bureaucracy isn’t exactly romantic, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to get married in Peru as a foreigner, the legal requirements, and how to obtain a Peruvian marriage certificate. Plus, I’ll throw in some insider tips to make your wedding experience smooth and stress-free.
Step 1: Choose Your Wedding Type (Because Peru Gives You Options!)
Before diving into the legal process, decide what kind of wedding you want:
💍 Civil Marriage (The Legal Route)
A civil wedding is the only way to make your marriage legally recognized in Peru and internationally. It is conducted by the local Municipalidad (municipality) and is a straightforward legal procedure.
⛪ Religious Ceremony (For the Romantics Who Want a Church Wedding)
If you’re dreaming of a church wedding, know that a religious ceremony alone is NOT legally binding in Peru. You’ll still need to complete the civil marriage process.
✅ Pro Tip: Many couples do the civil wedding first and then go all out with a beautiful church or symbolic ceremony. This way, you get the best of both worlds!
Step 2: Gather Your Documents (Yes, Paperwork Is a Thing)
Now, let’s talk about the fun (ahem, bureaucratic) part: documents.
If You’re Both Foreigners (International Lovebirds)
You’ll need:
✅ Passports (valid + copies)
✅ Birth Certificates (officially translated into Spanish & legalized/apostilled)
✅ Single Status Certificate (Certificado de Soltería) – proof you’re not already married
✅ Affidavit of Intent to Marry (Check with your country’s embassy in Peru!)
✅ Peruvian Address Proof (even if it’s temporary, like an Airbnb)
If One of You Is Peruvian
The foreign partner needs the above, while the Peruvian partner must also provide:
✅ DNI (National ID Card)
✅ Civil Status Certificate (Certificado de Soltería Nacional)
✅ Pro Tip: Start gathering these documents at least 2-3 months in advance. Processing times vary, and you don’t want last-minute stress!
Step 3: Legalization, Translation & The “Paper Chase”
If your documents were issued abroad:
- They must be apostilled in your home country OR legalized at the Peruvian consulate.
- Any non-Spanish documents require official translation by a certified Peruvian translator.
🏛 Where to Get Translations? Contact the Colegio de Traductores del Perú (official website).
Step 4: Submit Your Application & Wait (Patience Is Key!)
Once you have all your documents in perfect order, head to the municipality where you plan to marry.
📝 What Happens Next?
- Submit your paperwork and pay a small fee.
- Some municipalities require a public notice announcing your intent to marry (in case someone objects – drama!).
- You may need a medical exam (yes, some places still require this).
- Wait 15 days for approval.
✅ Pro Tip: Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa tend to have faster processing compared to small towns.
Step 5: The Wedding Ceremony (Finally, the Fun Part!)
💒 For a Civil Wedding:
- Conducted by a municipal official, usually in the local municipality office or a location of your choice (for an extra fee).
- The ceremony is short & formal, followed by signing the papers.
💒 For a Church Wedding:
- You’ll need to show your civil marriage certificate.
- If you’re Catholic, be prepared for pre-marriage counseling (charlas prematrimoniales).
✅ Dream Wedding Ideas: Want a unique wedding? Consider these stunning Peruvian locations:
- Machu Picchu (imagine the epic photos!)
- Sacred Valley (Valle Sagrado) – lush green mountains & ancient ruins
- Paracas Beach – golden sunsets & ocean waves
- Arequipa – charming colonial churches
Step 6: Get Your Marriage Certificate (Because Proof of Love Matters!)
After the wedding, you’ll receive your Acta de Matrimonio (Marriage Certificate). If you plan to use it outside Peru:
- Apostille it at the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Translate it, if needed, for your home country’s legal system.
🏛 Where to Get an Apostille? Check Peru’s official Foreign Ministry website (Cancillería del Perú).
FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered!
Can foreigners get married in Peru?
Yes! Both foreigners and locals can legally marry in Peru. Just be ready for some paperwork.
Is a Peruvian marriage valid internationally?
Yes! But you may need to apostille your marriage certificate for international use.
How long does it take to get a marriage certificate?
Typically, 15-30 days depending on the municipality.
Final Thoughts: Your Love Story, Captured Forever
Getting married in Peru is more than just paperwork—it’s an adventure! Whether you’re exchanging vows in the historic streets of Cusco, the cliffs of Lima, or a hidden jungle retreat, your love story deserves to be told beautifully.
📸 Looking for a wedding photographer who knows Peru inside-out? I’d love to capture your special day in a way that’s as breathtaking as the landscape itself!
💍 Check out my latest wedding stories: Your Happy Moments Blog
🎥 Explore my wedding photography packages: Investment Page
📩 Let’s plan your perfect wedding shoot! Contact Me Here
Your wedding isn’t just a day—it’s a story. Let’s make it unforgettable. 💛
