How to Get Married Abroad as a US Citizen
There’s something truly magical about saying “I do” in a destination far from home, where the landscape is as breathtaking as the moment itself! While it’s a deeply romantic idea and an amazing experience, there are a few things you need to know about how to get married abroad as a U.S. citizen!
Fortunately, this handy destination wedding guide for U.S. citizens will cover all the requirements and essential tips to make your destination wedding overseas absolutely perfect.
Why Choose To Get Married Abroad?
Simply put, getting married abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ensure your wedding day exceeds your wildest dreams. If there’s a place you’ve always dreamed of traveling to but have never gotten the chance to visit, what better occasion is there than your wedding? Getting married abroad allows you to visit dream locations filled with cultural and personal significance.
What Americans Need To Know About International Marriage Laws
The most important thing that Americans need to know about getting married abroad is that every country will have its own set of marriage requirements and legal restrictions.
When considering how to plan a destination wedding abroad as a U.S. citizen, you should research country-specific laws and documents you may need. Look into each country’s particular international wedding requirements for Americans and how to obtain all the necessary documents each country requires.
Steps To Plan Your Destination Wedding
1. Choose Your Ideal Destination
Your destination wedding is your chance to exchange vows in your dream location! When you’re trying to figure out where to get married abroad as a U.S. citizen, you shouldn’t put any limitations on your ability to imagine something amazing!
2. Hire Local Experts
If you’re traveling to a new place, it’s always a good idea to hire someone local who knows the culture as well as any relevant legal requirements for Americans who wish to get married in your chosen location.
These experts can help you answer key questions, such as, “Do U.S. citizens need special documents to get married abroad?” and “What are the best locations to get married in your chosen destination wedding location?”
They can also help you navigate all the legal steps to marry overseas as an American in your chosen wedding destination.
3. Handle Necessary Paperwork As Early As Possible
If you’re a U.S. citizen getting married in another country, the last thing you’re going to want to worry about as your wedding day approaches is dealing with a bunch of legal and logistical hurdles in order to make sure you meet all the necessary requirements. Your trip should be all about focusing on the amazing new environment and exploring this new and amazing culture!
That’s why one of my very first tips for U.S. citizens planning a destination wedding in a foreign country is to research the legal requirements for getting married abroad and learn about the marriage abroad process for Americans as early as possible.
4. Book Travel
If you’re a U.S. citizen getting married in another country, it is, of course, extremely important that you figure out how you’re going to make it to your chosen destination!
5. Plan For Guests Travel & Lodging
If you’re hoping to have guests attend your destination wedding in a foreign country, it’s incredibly important that you make sure that your friends and family will have a way to reach the destination you’ve chosen, and that they’ll have a place to stay.
Adventure Is Calling: How To Choose The Wedding Location That’s Best For You
It’s a big and exciting world out there! Picking the perfect location for your destination wedding abroad as a U.S. citizen requires a bit of care, consideration, and a willingness to listen to your heart and go where your passion guides you.
There are a few places that are particularly amazing for destination weddings that I always recommend if you’re thinking of getting married abroad. Here are a few global highlights:
Italy: Romance Meets History
Why It’s Great:
Italy is the ultimate wedding destination and it’s easy to understand why. It offers a blend of stunning landscapes, historic charm, and exceptional cuisine, not to mention some absolutely legendary landmarks that make for some truly stunning wedding photos!
How Easy Is It To Get Married In Italy?
Getting married in Italy as a U.S. citizen is relatively straightforward, but it involves some paperwork. You’ll need to apply for a marriage license at the U.S. consulate in Italy, provide a declaration of intent, and submit documents like your passport and birth certificate.
Switzerland: Majestic Mountains & Lakes
Why It’s Great:
Switzerland is known for its fairytale scenery, with alpine villages, crystal-clear lakes, and dramatic mountain backdrops.
How Easy Is It To Get Married In Switzerland?
The process for getting married in Switzerland is relatively simple. U.S. citizens must submit documentation (including proof of identity and residence) to the local registry office. The process usually takes 1-2 months, so be sure to allow time for preparation.
Iceland: A Land of Fire & Ice
Why It’s Great:
Iceland is the ultimate destination for adventurous couples seeking an otherworldly landscape they can get fully immersed in — with dramatic volcanoes, epic glaciers, luxurious hot springs, and awe-inspiring waterfalls!
How Easy Is It To Get Married In Iceland?
Getting married in Iceland is relatively easy for U.S. citizens. You’ll need a valid passport, a birth certificate, and proof of dissolution if either of you were previously married.
Scotland: Mystical Castles & Rolling Highlands
Why It’s Great:
Whether you’re looking for a fairytale setting in a historic castle or charming village, or a rugged adventure elopement in the heart of nature, Scotland has something to offer for everyone.
How Easy Is It To Get Married In Scotland?
Getting married in Scotland is straightforward for U.S. citizens. You’ll need to submit a marriage notice at least 29 days before your ceremony and provide proof of identity such as a passport or a birth certificate.
New Zealand: The Adventure of a Lifetime
Why It’s Great:
If you’re an adventurous couple, New Zealand’s stunning landscapes with sweeping beaches, lush rainforests and rugged mountains provide the perfect backdrop for your ceremony and countless opportunities for exploration!
How Easy Is It To Get Married In New Zealand?
U.S. citizens can marry in New Zealand with ease. You’ll need to apply for a marriage license at least three days before your wedding, and once you obtain this license, it’s valid for three months.
Greece: Sun-Kissed Islands & Ancient Ruins
Why It’s Great:
From the blue-domed churches of Santorini to the golden beaches of Crete, Greece offers an incredibly romantic environment for a traditional wedding or an elopement off the beaten path!
How Easy Is It To Get Married In Greece?
Getting married in Greece as a U.S. citizen is relatively easy. You’ll need to provide documents such as your passport, a birth certificate, and proof of single status (or divorce certificate if applicable).
Norway: Majestic Fjords & Northern Lights
Why It’s Great:
With its stunning fjords, snow-capped mountains, and picturesque villages, Norway offers a serene and breathtaking setting for your wedding.
How Easy Is It To Get Married In Norway?
Getting married in Norway is relatively easy for U.S. citizens. You’ll need to submit a marriage application with the local town hall and provide documentation such as a passport and birth certificate. You’ll also need to be in Norway for at least 7 days before the wedding, so make sure your travel plans accommodate this requirement!
Argentina: Tango & Beautiful Landscapes
Why It’s Great:
Argentina offers a vibrant and diverse range of wedding destinations, from the tango-filled streets of Buenos Aires to the majestic Patagonia and the vineyards of Mendoza.
How Easy Is It To Get Married In Argentina?
U.S. citizens can marry in Argentina with relative ease, though the process requires a few steps. You’ll need to apply for a marriage license at the Civil Registry, provide proof of identity, and submit a sworn statement stating that you're free to marry.
Portugal: Coastal Charm & Vineyards
Why It’s Great:
From the ancient streets of Lisbon to the vineyards of the Douro Valley and the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve, Portugal offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning coastal beauty.
How Easy Is It To Get Married In Portugal?
Portugal is one of the easier countries for U.S. citizens to marry in. You’ll need to provide documents like your passport and birth certificate, but that’s pretty much all you’ll need.
Japan: Elegance & Tradition
Why It’s Great:
Whether you want to marry in a Shinto shrine, a serene Japanese garden, or with the stunning backdrop of Mount Fuji, Japan’s mix of ancient tradition and modern elegance guarantees an unforgettable wedding experience.
How Easy Is It To Get Married In Japan?
Marrying in Japan as a U.S. citizen tends to be a bit more complex than other destinations. You’ll need to submit paperwork to the local ward office in Japan, including your passport, a birth certificate, and proof of eligibility to marry. Documents must be translated into Japanese, and the marriage must be registered with the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo. The process may take longer than other countries, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
Follow Your Heart To The Location Of Your Dreams
If you’re a U.S. citizen planning to get married in a foreign country and searching for a destination elopement photographer to be by your side for the adventure of a lifetime, then we should chat! Get in touch and we can start planning how to make sure your destination wedding is as simple and elegant as possible, and that each moment is as perfect as you’ve always dreamed.
Hey, I’m Sally! I’m a destination adventure elopement photographer based in Washington, but traveling worldwide!
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