What do you need to get married in Puerto Rico.
What is Needed to Get Married in Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico, a tropical paradise in the Caribbean, is not only a popular vacation spot but also a favored destination for couples wishing to tie the knot. The process of getting married in Puerto Rico is fairly straightforward, but it does require some planning and understanding of the local laws and regulations. Whether you are a resident of Puerto Rico or planning a destination wedding, here’s what you need to know to make your big day official.
1. Legal Requirements
To get married in Puerto Rico, you need to comply with the local laws, which are quite similar to those in the mainland United States, with some specific differences.
Eligibility:
– Age: The legal age to marry in Puerto Rico is 21 years. However, individuals aged 18-20 can marry with parental consent, and those younger can marry with judicial consent.
– Marital Status: Both parties must be single. If previously married, you must provide documentation proving that the marriage has ended, such as a divorce decree or death certificate.
2. Necessary Documents
Gathering the right documentation is a crucial step. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Photo Identification: Valid government-issued ID such as a passport or driver’s license.
– Birth Certificates: Recent copies of birth certificates are required.
– Affidavit of Intention: This is a sworn statement that both parties are free to marry. It must be made before a Notary Public.
– Medical Certification: As of recent regulations, blood tests are not required. However, you must obtain a statement from a doctor (from either Puerto Rico or your place of residence) dated within 10 days of the marriage application, certifying that you comply with all Puerto Rican laws and regulations concerning marriage.
3. Marriage License
To legally wed in Puerto Rico, you must obtain a marriage license from the Demographic Registry:
– Visit the Demographic Registry Office: You can do this at any office in Puerto Rico.
– Submit Documentation: Provide all the necessary documents to the office.
– Pay Fees: There is a fee for the marriage license, which varies slightly depending on the municipality.
4. The Ceremony
With the legalities taken care of, you can focus on the ceremony:
– Officiant: A marriage in Puerto Rico can be officiated by a judge, a minister, or any other person authorized by the government.
– Witnesses: You will need at least two witnesses who are over 21 years of age for the ceremony.
5. After the Wedding
Once the ceremony is over, your officiant will submit the marriage certificate to the local registry. You should follow up to ensure that everything has been filed correctly and to obtain official copies of your marriage certificate.
6. Additional Tips for Destination Weddings
If you are planning a destination wedding, consider the following tips:
– Local Help: Consider hiring a wedding planner who understands local regulations and customs.
– Early Arrivals: Arrive a few days early to finalize any outstanding paperwork and to acclimate to the locale.
– Cultural Elements: Embrace local traditions and flavors in your ceremony and reception to make your wedding unique and memorable.
7. Enjoy Your Special Day
With the paperwork and planning out of the way, all that’s left is to enjoy the beautiful backdrop of Puerto Rico for your special day. Whether it’s a beachfront ceremony at sunset or a vibrant celebration in a historic San Juan hacienda, Puerto Rico offers a romantic setting like no other.
Getting married in Puerto Rico involves a mix of preparation and paperwork, but with careful planning, your wedding day will be as enchanting as the island itself. Remember to check for any updates in local laws and regulations close to your wedding date to ensure a smooth and joyful celebration.
When planning to get married in Puerto Rico, you will need to gather and prepare the following list of documents to ensure all legal requirements are met:
1. Photo Identification:
2. Birth Certificates:
3. Affidavit of Intention to Marry:
4. Medical Certification:
5. Evidence of Dissolution of Previous Marriages.
6. Marriage License Application:
Remember, while these are the standard documents required, it’s important to verify any recent changes or additional requirements with local authorities or through a legal advisor in Puerto Rico, especially if either party is not a resident of Puerto Rico. This will ensure that your marriage process goes smoothly and is legally binding.
Previous
Next
