Getting married in Barcelona, Spain is a dream come true for many couples. The city’s stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and breathtaking views make it an ideal location for a romantic wedding ceremony. But before you start planning your special day, it’s important to understand the legal requirements for getting married in Barcelona.
Legal Requirements
Barcelona follows the legal requirements set by the Spanish government for marriage ceremonies. These requirements are applicable to both residents and non-residents of Spain.
Age Requirement
In order to get married in Barcelona, both parties must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18, they will need written consent from their parents or legal guardians.
Residency Requirement
There is no residency requirement for getting married in Barcelona. Non-residents can legally marry in the city as long as they meet all other legal requirements.
Documentation
When applying for a marriage license in Barcelona, you will need to provide several documents:
- Valid passports: Both parties must have valid passports or identification documents.
- Certificate of No Impediment: Non-residents of Spain must obtain a Certificate of No Impediment from their home country’s embassy or consulate in Barcelona. This document states that there are no legal obstacles to the marriage.
- Birth certificates: You will need to provide original copies of your birth certificates translated into Spanish by an official translator.
- Certificate of Residence: If you are a resident of Spain, you will need to provide a Certificate of Residence (Certificado de Empadronamiento) issued by your local town hall.
- Divorce or Death Certificates: If either party has been previously married, you will need to provide the relevant divorce or death certificates.
The Civil Ceremony
In Barcelona, civil ceremonies are the only legally recognized form of marriage. These ceremonies are conducted by a civil registrar at the local town hall or a designated wedding venue.
The ceremony itself is usually brief and consists of exchanging vows and signing the marriage register in the presence of two witnesses. It is recommended to have an interpreter present if you and your partner don’t speak Spanish fluently.
Additional Considerations
While the legal requirements for getting married in Barcelona are relatively straightforward, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:
- Wedding Planners: Hiring a wedding planner who specializes in destination weddings can make the process much smoother. They will guide you through the legal requirements, help with paperwork, and assist with organizing other aspects of your wedding.
- Timing: It’s important to plan your wedding well in advance as processing times for documents and appointments with the town hall may vary.
- Cultural Differences: Familiarize yourself with Spanish customs and traditions to incorporate them into your wedding ceremony if desired. It adds a special touch to your big day.
- Budget: Consider all the costs involved, including paperwork fees, venue rental fees, celebrant fees, translation services, and any additional expenses that may arise.
In conclusion, getting legally married in Barcelona is possible for both residents and non-residents. By following the age requirement, providing necessary documentation, opting for a civil ceremony, and considering additional factors, you can make your dream wedding in Barcelona a reality.
Start planning your special day today and create memories that will last a lifetime in the enchanting city of Barcelona!