So, you’ve decided to get married in Spain? ¡Felicidades! Picture this: exchanging vows under the golden Andalusian sun, celebrating with sangria in a charming Barcelona courtyard, or dancing flamenco under the twinkling lights of Seville. Sounds like a dream, right?
Well, before you pop the cava and start practicing your “Sí, quiero,” let’s talk about the less romantic but very necessary part—getting legally married in Spain. Yes, there’s some paperwork (okay, quite a bit), but don’t worry! This guide will walk you through all the legalities, documents, and alternative options, so you can focus on the fun parts of wedding planning.
Who Can Legally Get Married in Spain?
Spain’s marriage laws can be a little tricky, especially for non-residents. Here’s a quick breakdown:
✅ Civil Marriage – At least one partner must be a Spanish resident (for a minimum of two years) or a Spanish citizen.
✅ Catholic Wedding – Open to foreigners without residency, and it’s legally recognized by the Spanish government.
✅ Symbolic Ceremony – No paperwork required; perfect for couples who marry legally in their home country and celebrate in Spain.
✅ Gibraltar Loophole – You can legally marry in Gibraltar in 24 hours and then have your dream Spanish wedding!
💡 Thinking of a legal wedding but not a resident? Most international couples get legally married at home first and then plan a stunning symbolic ceremony in Spain—it looks and feels just as magical!
What Documents Do You Need?
If you’re eligible for a civil or Catholic wedding, you’ll need to gather some paperwork. Bureaucracy in Spain moves at a “mañana, mañana” pace, so start early!
📌 Basic Requirements:
✅ Valid passports
✅ Birth certificates (translated into Spanish & apostilled)
✅ Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) (proves you’re legally free to marry)
✅ Residency proof (Empadronamiento) (if applicable)
✅ Divorce or death certificate (if previously married)
🔹 All non-Spanish documents must be:
- Translated by a certified Spanish translator (traductor jurado)
- Apostilled for legal use in Spain
💡 Fun fact: Spanish bureaucracy loves official stamps. The more, the better!
How Long Does It Take?
⌛ Civil marriage applications take 1-3 months to be approved.
⌛ Catholic weddings can take even longer due to church procedures.
Patience is key! In some areas, town halls (ayuntamientos) have longer waiting lists—so apply as early as possible.
Non-Resident Wedding Solutions
If neither of you is a Spanish resident but you’re set on Spain for your big day, here are three easy alternatives:
1️⃣ Get Legally Married at Home, Celebrate in Spain
Most couples marry legally in their home country first and then have a symbolic wedding in Spain. No paperwork, no stress—just pure celebration!
2️⃣ Catholic Church Wedding (Legally Binding!)
If you’re both Catholic, Spain allows foreign couples to marry in the church, and it’s legally recognized. You’ll still need to provide documents, but residency isn’t required!
3️⃣ Gibraltar Wedding – The Secret Hack
Want a legal wedding without Spanish bureaucracy? Head to Gibraltar, where you can marry in just 24 hours with minimal paperwork! Many couples do this, then hop over to Spain for their dream wedding. Details here: www.gibraltar.gov.gi
Top Wedding Destinations in Spain
Spain is a wedding paradise—but where should you say “I do”?
🌊 Ibiza & Mallorca – Boho beach weddings, dramatic cliffs, and epic sunsets. Visit Ibiza | Explore Mallorca
🏰 Seville – A fairytale setting with historic palaces & flamenco vibes. Discover Seville
🌿 Barcelona – A city + beach wedding? Yes, please! Tour Barcelona
⛰️ Granada – Say your vows with the Alhambra as your backdrop. Visit Granada
Spanish Wedding Traditions You’ll Love
💃 No bridesmaids or groomsmen—just “padrinos” (best man & maid of honor, usually parents).
🥂 Weddings last all night (expect dancing until sunrise!).
🎁 Instead of gifts, guests give cash in envelopes (honeymoon fund = sorted!).
FAQs About Getting Married in Spain
🔹 Can foreigners legally marry in Spain?
Yes, but at least one partner must be a resident unless you’re having a Catholic wedding.
🔹 How long does it take to process marriage paperwork?
Expect 1-3 months, depending on the region.
🔹 Is a Spanish wedding legal worldwide?
Yes! Once properly registered, your Spanish marriage is valid internationally.
Let’s Make Your Spanish Wedding Unforgettable!
Still have questions? Need a wedding photographer who knows Spain inside out? That’s where I come in! I specialize in capturing intimate, emotional, and wildly romantic weddings across Spain.
📸 Explore my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Check out wedding packages: Investment
✉️ Let’s chat about your dream wedding: Contact Me
Your Spanish wedding is going to be epic—and I can’t wait to capture every magical moment! 💕
