Destination Weddings
Marriage Certificate Requirements Outside the US:
The Challenge: Every country has different requirements, waiting periods, and documentation needs. Get it wrong, and you're not legally married.
Common Requirements:
Passport: Valid for 6 months beyond travel
Birth Certificates: Original or certified copies
Divorce Decrees or Death Certificates: If previously married
Blood Tests: Required in some countries (Mexico, some Caribbean islands)
Waiting Periods: Some destinations require you to arrive 2-3 days before the ceremony
Witnesses: Number required varies by location
Translations: Some countries require documents translated to local language
Popular Destination Rules:
Jamaica:
No waiting period
Need valid passport, birth certificates, proof of citizenship
Relatively easy process
Mexico:
Blood tests required (done at approved clinic)
Arrive 3-4 days before wedding
More paperwork than other Caribbean destinations
Bahamas:
1-day waiting period
Simple process with few requirements
Cruise Ship Weddings:
Each cruise line has specific requirements
Captain ceremonies vs. port ceremonies (different rules)
Easier than resort weddings for paperwork
Timeline for Wedding Planning:
12+ months out: Book venue, start document gathering
6 months out: Finalize guest travel, book vendors
3 months out: Submit legal documents
1 month out: Final confirmations and details
We handle it all: You just show up and get married
How We Help: We've done this hundreds of times. We tell you exactly what documents you need, when to get them, where to get blood tests, how to navigate waiting periods, and handle all coordination with wedding planners and officiants.