Can Foreigners Get Married in Paris?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you considering getting married in the romantic city of Paris? As a foreigner, it’s natural to have questions about the legal requirements and process for getting married in France. Here’s everything you need to know about getting married in Paris as a foreigner.

Legal Requirements

To get legally married in France, both partners must be at least 18 years old and not already married or in a civil partnership. Additionally, one of the partners must have lived in France for at least 40 days prior to the wedding. This is known as the residency requirement.

If you’re unable to meet the residency requirement, don’t worry. You can still have a symbolic ceremony or a non-legal wedding celebration in Paris.

The Process

The first step is to contact your embassy or consulate in Paris to obtain the necessary paperwork and information on how to apply for a marriage license. The required documents may vary depending on your nationality, but typically include:

  • Valid passports
  • Birth certificates
  • Certificate of celibacy (a document stating that you’re not already married)
  • Proof of address (such as utility bills)
  • Proof of income

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documents, you’ll need to make an appointment with the local town hall (mairie) where you plan to get married. During this appointment, you’ll submit your paperwork and schedule your wedding date.

The Ceremony

In France, civil ceremonies are performed by an appointed official known as a mayor (maire). The ceremony typically takes place at the town hall and is conducted entirely in French.

If neither partner speaks French fluently, it’s recommended that you hire an interpreter or translator for the ceremony. You’ll also need two witnesses who are over 18 years old and able to understand French.

After the ceremony, you’ll receive a marriage certificate (livret de famille) which is an official document recognized by the French government and in most other countries.

Conclusion

Getting married in Paris as a foreigner is possible, but it does require some preparation and paperwork. Whether you choose to have a legal wedding or a symbolic ceremony, Paris offers a breathtaking backdrop for your special day. Just remember to plan ahead and allow plenty of time to obtain the necessary documents and meet the residency requirements.