Ah, France—the land of love, croissants, and effortlessly chic weddings. Whether you dream of a Parisian elopement, a vineyard wedding in Bordeaux, or a sun-kissed ceremony on the French Riviera, one thing remains true: French bureaucracy is as complex as its fine wines. 🍷
But don’t worry! This guide will walk you through how to legally get married in France as a foreigner, while also sprinkling in tips, humor, and some seriously dreamy wedding ideas.
1. Can Foreigners Get Married in France?
Short answer: Yes.
Long answer: Oui, but there’s paperwork involved.
Unlike in some countries where a simple tourist wedding is an option, France requires at least one of you to have a connection to the country—meaning residency, a family home, or a special exemption (more on that later).
If you don’t have that magical French address, don’t panic! Many couples legally marry at home and then have a symbolic wedding in France—the romance stays, the paperwork doesn’t. ✨
2. The Legal Checklist: What You Need to Get Married in France 📜
Before you book that chateau or lock down a photographer (wink-wink), you need to gather a dossier of documents. Some are obvious, others are just classic French red tape.
🗂️ Documents Required for a Civil Ceremony in France:
✔️ Birth Certificates – Issued within three months of the wedding and translated into French by a sworn translator.
✔️ Passports – Because “je ne sais quoi” doesn’t count as ID.
✔️ Proof of Residence – If one of you is a French resident, you’ll need a utility bill, lease, or an official certificate.
✔️ Certificate of Celibacy (Certificat de Célibat) – A document stating you’re not already married (your fiancé(e) will appreciate this one).
✔️ Certificate of Custom Law (Certificat de Coutume) – Confirms your home country allows you to marry in France.
✔️ Divorce or Death Certificate – If applicable, because France wants to be very sure you’re single.
✔️ Prenuptial Agreement (if applicable) – If you’re getting one, it must be done with a French notary.
✔️ Witness Information – You’ll need 2-4 witnesses with ID copies (your wedding squad, ready to go!).
All non-French documents must be translated by a sworn translator and may need an apostille or legalization depending on your country.
💡 Pro tip: Call or email the mairie (town hall) where you plan to marry—every local office has its own quirks!
3. Where Can You Legally Marry in France? 📍
🏛️ The Town Hall (Mairie) Ceremony
French law recognizes only civil marriages, which must take place at a town hall. Romantic vineyard weddings are gorgeous, but they won’t be legally binding unless you first say “oui” at the mairie.
💡 What to know:
- One of you must have lived in the town for at least 30 days before submitting paperwork.
- You must submit your application at least 30 days before your wedding (sometimes more).
- The ceremony is in French, so bring a translator if needed.
📍 Find your mairie: Service Public France
4. How to Skip the Paperwork: Symbolic & Religious Weddings 💒
If the legal process feels more stressful than organizing a 300-guest seating chart, you’re not alone. Many couples legally marry at home first, then come to France for a symbolic wedding.
✨ Popular Non-Legal Wedding Options in France:
✔️ Château Weddings – Exchange vows in a castle surrounded by rolling vineyards. Château de Villette is a stunning choice.
✔️ Beach Weddings in the South of France – Imagine saying “I do” with the Mediterranean breeze in Saint-Tropez. Plage Beau Rivage is a top spot.
✔️ Paris Elopements – A sunrise ceremony at the Eiffel Tower? Iconic. Peach Perfect Weddings specializes in this.
✔️ Religious Ceremonies – Churches and chapels can host a wedding, but you still need a civil ceremony first.
💡 Pro tip: A symbolic ceremony means you can skip the paperwork, choose your own officiant, and customize the experience however you like!
5. French Wedding Traditions to Add Extra Magic ✨
If you want to make your wedding feel truly French, consider incorporating some of these traditions:
🥐 Croquembouche – Instead of a tiered wedding cake, French weddings often feature this tower of cream-filled pastry puffs. (It’s as delicious as it sounds.)
💃 La Danse de la Mariée – The bride is expected to dance with everyone. Bonus points if you pick Edith Piaf for the soundtrack.
🍷 Champagne Fountain – Because in France, champagne is basically a love language.
6. The Best Time to Get Married in France ☀️
Want the best weather and fewer tourists? Timing is everything.
✔️ Spring (April–June): Flowers in bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Perfect for a garden wedding.
✔️ Summer (July–August): Peak wedding season but also peak heat. Think sunset ceremonies to avoid sweating through your vows.
✔️ Autumn (September–October): Stunning golden landscapes, great for vineyard weddings.
✔️ Winter (November–February): Cozy, intimate, and magical—especially in the Alps or Paris.
💡 Avoid: August – Many businesses (including wedding vendors) shut down for vacation.
7. Ready to Capture Your French Love Story? 📸
Whether you’re planning a legal wedding or a dreamy symbolic ceremony in France, your love story deserves to be captured beautifully.
As a wedding photographer specializing in destination weddings, I make sure your moments are more than just photos—they’re art, filled with romance and joy.
📍 Explore my portfolio: Your Happy Moments
📸 Check out my photography packages: Investment
💌 Let’s chat about your dream wedding: Contact Me
Because your wedding day is more than just a date—it’s a story. Let’s capture it together. 💕
FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
❓ Can foreigners get married in France?
Yes, but you need to meet residency requirements or opt for a symbolic wedding.
❓ How long does it take to process the paperwork?
It varies, but plan for at least 2–3 months in advance.
❓ Is a French wedding legal worldwide?
Yes, but check your country’s recognition process for international marriages.
Planning a French wedding is an adventure, but with the right guidance (and a little wine 🍷), it’s absolutely worth it. Bon mariage! 💕
