More and more couples are looking to elope in Mexico, and for good reason. Eloping has evolved into an exciting and cost-effective wedding trend now referred to as a destination wedding. Different from the past, eloping isn’t a secret. It just means fewer guests, less stress, and saving time and money.
When it comes to an elopement, there’s so much to love about Mexico. Pristine beaches, romantic culture, and warm hospitality provide a picturesque scene for couples who want to exchange vows in paradise.
If you’re wondering how to elope in Mexico, we have you covered. There are plenty of all-inclusive resorts to host your wedding at. We’ll also help you familiarize yourself with any requirements you may need to follow in order to get married in Mexico.
Top 5 Places to Elope in Mexico
Cancun
Couples who want to elope in Mexico should consider Cancun, a top destination wedding location. The area is beautiful and offers many things to do and see. Awesome nightlife, cultural sites, beach activities, shopping, and dining make it an exciting spot to exchange vows while having a memorable getaway.
Cancun is also home to all-inclusive resorts ranging from high-end to budget-friendly. Along with weddings, these resorts invite couples to spend their honeymoon enjoying relaxation and newlywed bliss.
Riviera Maya
Couples looking for extraordinary views and a variety of all-inclusive resorts will love Riviera Maya. An elopement to this destination is a perfect way to stay on budget without seeming to be on a budget. Pristine beaches captivate the senses and excursions like the Selvatica Canopy Adventure, snorkeling, and catamaran cruises will delight couples.
Riviera Nayarit/Puerto Vallarta
Some visitors would describe this Pacific Coastal area as heavenly because of its picturesque beach and mountain views. There’s ample shopping, eating establishments, and all-inclusive resorts with destination wedding packages. Couples will also love the cultural and artistic offerings along with excursions such as kayaking, snorkeling, and boating.
Isla Mujeres
Many couples fall in love with Isla Mujeres, a tranquil destination where you can say “I do.” This hidden treasure is perfect for laid-back couples looking to escape to a magical location full of friendly charm and culture. Gorgeous beaches, water adventures, and delicious cuisine make Isla Mujeres weddings so appealing. Plus, all-inclusive resorts can fit any couple’s budget and accommodate their needs.
Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas offers a variety of options when it comes to elopements. All-inclusive resorts are welcoming and range from lavish beachfront properties to breathtaking villas with ocean views. Cabo San Lucas is rated one of the top 5 tourist destinations that has all the adventure, amenities, and scenery to make your special day even more memorable.
How to Elope in Mexico (Marriage Requirements)
There’s no doubt that destination weddings in Mexico are romantic. However, they also come with certain requirements you must meet in order to and make it legal (even for elopements).
Many couples work with an experienced Certified Destination Wedding Specialist to handle all these details. Specialists have a good understanding of Mexico’s marriage laws. They can help couples determine the steps they need to take before tying the knot.
Elopement requirements differ by location:
Cabo San Lucas
- The marriage license must be obtained in the Mexican state of Baja California Sur
- Blood tests must be completed in the Mexican state of Baja California Sur
- Four witnesses with identification must be present
- A judge must perform the ceremony
- The bride and groom must be 18 years or older to marry without parental consent
- One year must have lapsed between final divorce decree(s) or death(s) of previous spouse(s), if applicable
Cancun
- The marriage license must be obtained in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo
- Blood tests must be completed in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo at least three business days before the ceremony
- Four witnesses with identification must be present
- A judge must perform the ceremony
- The bride and groom must be 18 years or older to marry without parental consent
- One year must have lapsed between final divorce decree(s) or death(s) of previous spouse(s), if applicable
Riviera Maya
- Blood tests must be completed in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo at least three business days and no more than seven business days before the ceremony
- Four witnesses with identification must be present
- A justice of the peace must perform the ceremony
- The bride and groom must be 18 years or older to marry without parental consent
- One year must have lapsed between final divorce decree(s) or death(s) of previous spouse(s), if applicable
When it comes to obtaining a marriage license, the requirements also differ by location:
Cabo San Lucas
Required U.S. Documents
- Original or certified copies of birth certificates
- Valid passports for the bride, groom and witnesses (if they are not residents of Mexico)
- Decree Absolute(s)/Annulment Decree(s) in the case of dissolution of previous marriage(s)
- Death Certificate(s) in the case of widow- or widowerhood
- Adoption Papers if the bride or groom were adopted
- Tourist cards (completed at the port of entry) or visas
- Apostilles and authorized translations for all of the above
Required documents specific to Cabo San Lucas
- Blood test results
- Health certificate
Cancun
Required U.S. Documents
- Original or certified copies of birth certificates plus one photocopy of each
- Valid passports for the bride, groom, and witnesses (if they are not residents of Mexico)
- Decree Absolute(s)/Annulment Decree(s) in the case of dissolution of previous marriage(s) by the bride (no paperwork is required for the groom)
- Death certificate(s) in the case of widow- or widowerhood
- Affidavits of Single Marital Status that have been notarized
- Affidavit of Name Change for the bride if her surname does not match that which appears on her birth certificate
- Apostilles and authorized translations for all of the above
Required Documents Specific to Cancun
- Tourist cards (completed at the port of entry) or visas
- Blood test results
- Health certificate
- Marriage Request Form
Riviera Maya
Required U.S. Documents
- Valid passports for the bride, groom, and witnesses (if they are not residents of Mexico)
- Decree Absolute(s)/Annulment Decree(s) in the case of dissolution of previous marriage(s) by the bride (no paperwork is required for the groom)
- Death certificate(s) in the case of widow- or widowerhood
Required Documents Specific to Riviera Maya
- Tourist cards (completed at the port of entry) or visas
- Blood test results
- Doctor’s certification of blood tests
- Marriage Request Form
RELATED: How to Get Married in Mexico on a Budget
All-Inclusive Elopement Packages in Mexico
Couples will find there are plenty of Mexico elopement packages to choose from. Whether the occasion is just the two of you or you’re including family and friends, you can find the perfect all-inclusive resort that has everything you want. All packages are able to fit seamlessly into any budget, based around your free quote.
These are only a few of the world-class, all-inclusive resorts that are perfect for an elopement in Mexico:
Le Blanc Spa Resort
This adults-only resort is located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone and it features spectacular beachfront views with romantic surroundings. Couples can enjoy luxurious accommodations with amenities like a whirlpool tub, private balcony, butler service, and more. 24-hour room service is available just in case you don’t want to venture out, or you can dine at one of the resort’s elegant venues.
Le Blanc Spa Resort offers its Signature Wedding Package, full of romantic touches and all the essentials needed for a beautiful occasion. A professional planner will help you with every detail along the way. You’ll also receive special butler service the day of to make sure you’re relaxed and pampered. Elopers can also choose a honeymoon package to continue the celebration after tying the knot.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is located on Banderas Bay in Puerto Vallarta. The resort’s motto is “Beyond All-Inclusive, Beyond All Compare” and exceeds expectations of guests. Couples can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere featuring modern architecture and décor. Six gourmet restaurants, an infinity pool, and land and water activities are right on property. Additionally, private terraces, mini bars, goose down pillows and comforters, and more give a romantic feel to each suite.
If you’re looking to elope, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit will make sure your day is magical. Couples can choose from beautiful venues like the beach, oceanfront garden, sky-lit terrace, or ballroom for their celebration. Exceptional service from resort staff members and professional wedding vendors provide a stress-free planning experience. No matter how grand or intimate you want this occasion to be, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit can make it happen.
El Dorado Maroma
Unwind at El Dorado Maroma, an exquisite resort unlike any other. This adults-only property sits on Maroma Beach in Riviera Maya. Guests are greeted with a glass of sparkling wine upon arrival, the first step to a luxury-filled retreat. The resort features a spa, gourmet restaurants, multiple swimming pools, and a fitness center. Suites invite couples to cozy up and savor peaceful moments together while enjoying 24-hour room service, hot tubs, and private balconies. In addition, the warm hospitality from staff members will be the icing on top of an amazing stay.
A collection of wedding packages from El Dorado Maroma makes it possible for eloping couples to have an out-of-this-world experience. Stylish décor and intricate details will bring your fantasy wedding to life while wedding planning services relieve you from stress. And of course, the breathtaking scenery of Riviera Maya sets the mood to your special day.
To make your dream Mexico wedding seamless, our award-winning Certified Destination Wedding Specialists will guide you through the planning process and make all the custom arrangements for you. We’re a worldwide, award-winning leader in romance travel. Plus, our services are 100% free. Just say “I do” and we’ll take care of the rest!
Be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Destination Weddings in Mexico for more information.
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