Destination Weddings & Legal Papers
Weddings entail both a legal aspect and a religious/spiritual aspect. Many wedding planners suggest that a couple address the legal aspects of the wedding in their home town and the religious/spiritual aspects of the wedding at their destination.
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Legal Aspects
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It is important to investigate the legal requirements of the U.S. state or of the country where the destination wedding is to be held. Check with the Foreign Consular Office in the U.S or the U.S. embassy in the desired country for the requirements for non-resident weddings. A wedding planner and/or a lawyer from the destination country could also be utilized.
Documentation Required
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Most countries require legal identification such as passports and drivers licenses.
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Previous Marriage
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If either the bride or groom has been married previously, she or he will need to show proof of death or divorce of the prior spouse. Depending on the country, these may have to be translated and notarized.
Advanced Application
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One needs to apply in advance of the wedding for the marriage license, and the waiting times vary depending on the location.
Certification of Marriage
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Some countries will provide you with a marriage certificate at the conclusion of the ceremony. Other countries require the documentation to be registered by the government, which can take months.
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References
- Photo Credit Photo by Nataniel Corn of Balance Photography