Legal Vs. Symbolic Destination Wedding Ceremonies: What’s The Difference?
Many couples planning a wedding abroad want to know if they’ll be legally married in their chosen country. Understanding your options will help you decide what’s best for you. That’s why I’m breaking down the difference between a legal and symbolic wedding ceremony—and what you need to know about getting a destination wedding marriage license.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. Teach Travel Discover is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program as well as other affiliate programs. These are designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites at no extra cost to you. Please see our Privacy Policy for more details.
This article is going to give you the deets on both a legal (civil) destination wedding ceremony and a symbolic destination wedding ceremony so that you can decide which is best for you.
Rather Watch The Info On Destination Wedding Marriage License?
Destination Weddings Are More Popular Than Ever
In the past couple of years, destination weddings have experienced a surge in popularity. So much so that the trend is making its way across to those who would otherwise not have considered it.
If you’re planning to get married in a different country, you will probably be faced with the decision between a legal and symbolic wedding and may be wondering, “what the heck is a symbolic wedding?” or, “is a symbolic wedding legal”, or “what’s the difference between a symbolic ceremony and a civil ceremony?”
What You Need for a Legal Ceremony Abroad
Gathering the Right Documents
Just like in your home state, you’ll need to provide specific documents and proof of identity, along with paying any required licensing fees. Some countries will ask for notarized copies of your passport, divorce decree, or legal name change documents. Others may require you to translate these documents into their official language before submission.
Understanding the Ceremony Language
If you’re getting legally married in a country where English isn’t the primary language, don’t assume your ceremony will be officiated in English. In many cases, the officiant will conduct the ceremony in the country’s official language. A translator—usually provided by the onsite wedding coordinator—will translate the officiant’s words so you understand what’s being said.
Paying Government Fees & Possible Blood Tests
Most countries charge government fees for legal weddings, and some even require a blood test before they issue a marriage license. These extra steps vary by destination, so it’s important to check the specific requirements for the country where you’re getting married.
Bringing Witnesses
Some destinations require you to bring witnesses who are not related to you. In certain cases, these witnesses must arrive on the same day as you to meet the legal requirements.
Meeting Residency Requirements
Many countries require couples to be in the country for a set amount of time before they can legally marry. For example, some destinations require you to stay for at least four days, and only business days (Monday-Friday) count toward this requirement. Others may require just 48 hours, with no restrictions on arrival days.
Why a Legal Ceremony Abroad Isn’t as Complicated as It Sounds
Don’t stress over these requirements. Many countries keep the legal marriage process simple. Some have minimal paperwork and quick approvals. The rules vary by destination, but I help my couples figure out the best option. I walk them through the paperwork, residency rules, and whether a legal or symbolic ceremony makes sense. My goal is to make the process easy and stress-free.
Stay Flexible With Your Plans
Keep an open mind when planning a legal destination wedding. You might assume you can make it legally binding at your chosen destination, but that’s not always the case. Instead of limiting yourself to a handful of countries with easy legal requirements, focus on what matters most—like the location, experience, and overall wedding vibe.
Why a Legal Destination Wedding Can Be a Great Choice
When you get legally married in your dream destination, it’s official from day one. You’ll know exactly which date to celebrate as your anniversary. Your marriage becomes legally recognized the moment you say “I do.” You won’t have to handle extra paperwork when you get home. Plus, you get to say you got legally married in Mexico—or wherever you choose!
A Symbolic Ceremony: Where You Won’t Need A Destination Wedding Marriage License
Second, let’s discuss the mystery of the symbolic wedding and what you need to know. Essentially, a symbolic wedding looks and sounds just like a civil wedding, it just isn’t legally binding. It is like a commitment ceremony or a renewal of vows.
Avoiding Extra Hoops to Jump Through:
Many couples choose a symbolic destination wedding to avoid the legal requirements of getting married in another country. The process can involve extra paperwork, government fees, and strict residency rules. Some couples don’t want the hassle of gathering documents or waiting days to make it official. Others prefer to skip the added costs that come with legal ceremonies abroad. A symbolic wedding keeps things simple. You get the full wedding experience without dealing with legal red tape.
Can Ensure Everyone Can Celebrate:
Sometimes, couples will have certain family members who won’t be able to travel with them, so they choose to get married in the States before heading to their destination so that those family members can be a part of the union.
You Will Need Proof You Are Married:
No matter your reason, with a symbolic destination wedding you will want to get married before heading to the destination because the country you are heading to will want a copy of your marriage records. To them, your ceremony is like a vow renewal, and they want to ensure you are legally married before officiating your ceremony. Make sense?
Benefits of a symbolic wedding ceremony:
1. Less expensive
2. Not as much paperwork
3. No residency requirements
4. No translation of documents
5. Ceremony can be officiated by a family member or friend
Are You Ready to Get Your Destination Wedding Marriage Licenses?
In the end, each couple should do what it feels is right for them. Unless you absolutely need to have a legal ceremony for your destination wedding, such as in some Catholic weddings, there is no wrong answer here. The most important thing to remember about your destination wedding ceremony, is to do what will make you and your soon to be spouse most happy. A destination wedding is supposed to be a celebration of your love, so make it as hassle free & wonderful as possible.
If you are in the midst of planning your destination wedding and feel like you’re stuck and not getting very far, I encourage you to use this link, to schedule a free 30-minute strategy session with me! I would be honored to help your figure out everything you need for an amazing destination wedding! (Legal or Symbolic)