A destination wedding is a dream come true for many couples and can add an extra level of excitement to an already special event. But when it comes to getting married abroad, there are some important legal considerations that must be taken into account. If you’re planning a destination wedding in the United States, there are certain regulations that you need to be aware of before taking the plunge into marriage.
Residency Requirements
The first consideration for a destination wedding in the US is to make sure that both parties meet the residency requirements for getting legally married in their state. Each state has its own set of laws, so it’s important to check with your local government office before booking any travel plans. In most cases, both parties must have lived in the state for at least 30 days prior to applying for a marriage license.
Valid Identification
You will also need valid identification in order to apply for a marriage license. This usually includes either a driver’s license or passport, as well as proof of your address if applicable.
Additionally, both parties will usually need to provide their Social Security numbers when submitting the marriage license application.
Marriage License
Once all the necessary documents have been gathered and submitted, you can then apply for a marriage license at your local county courthouse or other designated government agency. The fee for obtaining a marriage license varies from state to state and some require a waiting period before the license is issued.
Witnesses
In most states, two witnesses are required at the ceremony who must be over 18 years old and who can attest that the ceremony was conducted lawfully and correctly. If you’re having an intimate beachside ceremony with just your closest friends and family present, it’s important to bear this requirement in mind.
Yes, your destination wedding can be legally recognized within US borders provided you follow all applicable laws and regulations regarding residency requirements, valid identification, obtaining a valid marriage license and having witnesses present at your ceremony.