Getting Married in Spain: A Guide for Foreigners

While many couples look into pareja de hecho (civil partnership) as a route to residency, marriage remains a popular and legally robust option. In Spain, the legal requirements for marriage are the same whether you are a Spanish citizen or a foreign national.

If you are planning to tie the knot in Spain, here is what you need to know to navigate the process.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible to marry in Spain, you must meet the following criteria:

• Age: Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
• Marital Status: Neither partner can be currently married.
• Relationship: There must be no direct blood relationship (consanguinity) between the partners.

Required Documentation

Each local Registro Civil (Civil Registry) can have specific preferences, but generally, you will need to prepare the following:

• Passport and NIE: Original copies of your identification.
• Empadronamiento: A certificate of residency (Certificado de empadronamiento) issued within the last 3 months.
• Birth Certificate: Must include a sworn translation (traducción jurada) into Spanish. Most registries require the document to have been issued within the last 3 to 6 months.
• Certificate of Marital Status: Proof that you are currently single. If you were previously married, you must provide a divorce decree or a death certificate of the former spouse, also with a sworn translation.
• Marriage Application Form: This is completed directly at the Registro Civil.

The Process: Where and How to Apply

Applications must be submitted to the Registro Civil in the municipality where at least one of the future spouses is officially registered (empadronado).

1. Schedule an Appointment: In larger cities, you will need to book an appointment in advance via the official website or by phone.
2. Submission: You will submit your documents and the application form to the registry office.
3. Wait Times: The entire process, from document review to the scheduling of your wedding date, typically takes 3 to 6 months.

Important Tips for Success

• Local Variations: Every Registro Civil operates with some level of autonomy. It is common for different offices to have slightly different requirements regarding the validity period of documents or the need for an apostille (legalization). Always confirm the specific requirements directly with your local registry before gathering your documents.
• Avoid Delays: Processing times are significantly shorter in smaller municipalities compared to major cities. If you have the flexibility to register in a smaller town, you may find the process moves much faster.
• Plan Ahead: Given that the administrative process can take several months, it is highly recommended to start your paperwork well before you intend to be married.

By being prepared and verifying the specific needs of your local registry early, you can ensure a smooth path to your wedding day in Spain.