Planning a destination wedding in Mexico brings excitement, beauty, and the promise of unforgettable memories. But for many international couples, one of the first questions that comes up is: legal requirements to get married in Mexico as a foreigner? While it’s entirely possible to have a legally recognized wedding in Mexico, it’s important to understand the steps, documents, and timelines involved so that everything goes smoothly on your big day.
This guide walks you through the legal process for foreigners getting married in Mexico, the difference between legal and symbolic ceremonies, and how to decide what’s best for your wedding plans.
Legal vs symbolic weddings in Mexico
Before diving into the legal process, it’s important to know that many couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony in Mexico instead of a legal one. A symbolic wedding looks and feels exactly like a traditional wedding but has no legal standing—meaning you would handle the legal paperwork in your home country before or after the trip.
Symbolic weddings offer more flexibility, faster planning, and fewer restrictions. However, if you want your Mexican wedding to be legally recognized, you’ll need to follow a specific process, which we outline below.
Can foreigners legally get married in Mexico?
Yes, foreigners can legally marry in Mexico. Civil weddings (legal marriages) are performed by a Mexican judge or civil registrar and are recognized internationally, provided the proper steps are followed.
Here are the basic legal requirements to get married in Mexico as a foreigner:
Required documents
Couples must provide the following documentation:
Valid passports for both partners
Tourist visas or FMM cards (usually issued upon arrival in Mexico)
Birth certificates (some states may require these to be translated into Spanish and apostilled)
Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable, showing the legal dissolution of any previous marriage)
Marriage application forms, provided by the local registry
Blood test results (some states still require this to check for certain diseases; it must be done in Mexico)
Additional requirements
Witnesses: Most states require 2–4 adult witnesses, with valid passports or ID. Some resorts may provide witnesses if needed.
Translators: If either party does not speak Spanish, a translator may be required during the ceremony.
A judge or civil official: The ceremony must be performed by an authorized government official—not a religious or symbolic officiant—to be legally binding.
Where to start the process
The legal marriage process must be arranged in the Mexican state where you plan to marry. Local regulations vary slightly between states like Quintana Roo (where Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum are located) and others.
It’s recommended to begin contacting the local registry office or your resort’s wedding coordinator at least 2–3 months in advance to gather accurate information and ensure all documents are in order.
Some resorts will handle most of the paperwork for you as part of their wedding package. Be sure to ask if they offer this service.
Blood tests: are they still required?
In some states, yes. For example, Quintana Roo (home to Cancun and Riviera Maya) has historically required a blood test that must be performed in Mexico no more than 14 days before the wedding.
The test checks for HIV, syphilis, and sometimes blood type. It must be done at a certified Mexican lab, and results are typically returned within 24–48 hours. Some couples may find this requirement invasive or unnecessary, which is another reason many opt for symbolic weddings instead.
Fees and processing times
Marriage license fee: Usually ranges from $100–$200 USD, depending on the state.
Judge/official travel fee: If the ceremony takes place outside a civil office (like at your resort), a travel fee may be charged.
Document translation and apostille: If required, these services may add another $100–$300 USD.
After your ceremony, you’ll receive a Mexican marriage certificate. To make it legally valid in your home country, you may need to apostille the certificate and have it translated. This process can take several weeks and may involve additional steps depending on where you live.
Religious weddings in Mexico
Religious ceremonies are not legally recognized on their own in Mexico. Even if you’re planning a Catholic, Jewish, or other faith-based wedding, it must be accompanied by a civil ceremony to be legally binding.
You may choose to have both: a civil ceremony for the legal aspect, and a symbolic or religious ceremony for the emotional and spiritual experience.
Is a legal wedding right for you?
Legal weddings in Mexico are a great choice for couples who:
Want their marriage to be recognized internationally without additional paperwork at home
Appreciate the cultural or symbolic importance of being legally married on Mexican soil
Are planning a small, simple ceremony with plenty of time to gather documentation
However, if you’re short on time, don’t want to deal with legal steps in a foreign country, or simply prefer to focus on the experience, a symbolic wedding might be a better fit.
Pros and cons of a legal wedding in Mexico
Pros:
Officially recognized marriage certificate
One ceremony for both symbolic and legal meaning
Adds authenticity for couples wanting a formal celebration abroad
Cons:
More paperwork and preparation
Possible blood test requirement
Translation and apostille may be needed after the ceremony
What couples often choose
Many couples decide to legally marry in their home country either before or after the trip, and then enjoy a symbolic wedding in Mexico. This option allows full creative freedom and eliminates stress while still offering the full destination wedding experience.
Resorts are very familiar with this setup and offer beautiful symbolic ceremonies that look and feel just as real as any legal event.
Documenting your destination wedding
No matter which path you choose—legal or symbolic—capturing your day beautifully is essential. With years of experience shooting destination weddings across Mexico, Coresfilms offers professional photography and videography services designed to reflect your love story with elegance and emotion.
From the moment you arrive to the final sunset of your celebration, Coresfilms ensures your memories are preserved with artistry, authenticity, and heart.
