Riviera Maya is the definition of a dream wedding destination. A pristine stretch of white, sandy beaches and stunning turquoise waters, it’s no wonder that this gem has captured the hearts and minds of millions of couples. This location is spotted with mysterious Mayan ruins, tastefully interwoven among luxury resorts and unforgettable dining experiences, making it the perfect opportunity to host a dream wedding you and your guests will never forget.
If you’re getting married in Riviera Maya, it may just feel right to make it official then and there. Completing official marriage documents now will save you the trouble later, allowing you to return home without the hassle of managing paperwork.
But if you’re looking to make your ceremony legally binding, there are a few requirements you’ll need to know before tying the knot. Let’s take a closer look at what you should know, including the documents you’ll need to make things legal.
Learn more about getting married in Riviera Maya >>
Why Choose the Riviera Maya for Your Destination Wedding?
There are a host of reasons to get married in Riviera Maya, but we can’t talk about this stunning locale without mentioning its jaw-dropping coastal setting.
The porcelain sand beaches meet the glittering turquoise waters of the Caribbean, pulling guests into their romantic embrace. Lavish resorts and private villas welcome you into luxury like no other, making sure your special day arrives without incident. The climate is warm and temperate year-round — no need to worry about harsh winter weather.
You should also know that costs are typically much lower than hosting a big wedding in other locales. At Destination Weddings, we deal almost exclusively with all-inclusive resorts, which means fewer bills for you and savings you won’t find anywhere else.
And since Riviera Maya is full of sights and adventures, you can combine your wedding and honeymoon all into one trip!
Marriage Requirements in Riviera Maya
If you’re looking to make your marriage official in Riviera Maya, you’ll need to make sure to conduct a legal ceremony, as a symbolic ceremony is not recognized as a legal marriage in Mexico.
Firstly, here are the documents you’ll need to make things legal:
- A valid passport
- Any valid Mexican entry documents, such as a visa or migratory form
- Birth certificates
- A pre-nuptial agreement that specifies whether you’ll be getting married under joint ownership or non-joint ownership
- If either partner is divorced or widowed, provide the respective documents (for example, a death certificate or absolute decree)
- A pre-nuptial medical certificate that must be obtained in Mexico
- For either partner under 18, they must submit parental permission, duly legalized
- In Riviera Maya, you’ll need four witnesses with valid IDs
- A Certificate of No Impediment may be required
Keep in mind that any foreign document must be verified by an apostille or legalized in your own country first. It must then be translated into Spanish by a translator in Mexico.
It’s recommended to acquire plenty of copies of your marriage certificate and apostille them, as you cannot ask the Mexican Embassy to request documents for you.
The Difference Between a Legal and Symbolic Ceremony
If you want to complete all your legal paperwork back home, you can always perform a symbolic ceremony in Riviera Maya.
Here’s the difference: a legal ceremony is performed to make things official on the spot when you get married locally, while a symbolic ceremony is simply a celebration of your love and commitment to your partner, keeping all of the paperwork back at home.
What to Do When You Return Home
When you return home, what do you have to do if you legally got married in Riviera Maya? Thankfully, it’s pretty simple.
Most marriages performed in another country (including Riviera Maya) are also recognized in the US and Canada. That said, if you need any specific information about your marriage for tax purposes, it’s recommended to check with your local or state office.
You might want to have your marriage license translated so you can quickly track down the specifics on your own. That means you won’t need a translator to serve as an intermediary, especially if you have questions regarding the legal details.
Start Planning Your Destination Wedding in Riviera Maya Today!
It’s no secret Riviera Maya is an incredible spot for a destination wedding. If you’re looking for a jaw-dropping locale — and the perfect getaway for a post-wedding honeymoon adventure — look no further.
No need to stress about navigating the details on your own: our award-winning Certified Destination Wedding Specialists are here to make the process smooth and stress-free. Simply fill out our online wedding planning form to get started today. Your dream wedding in Riviera Maya is just a few clicks away!
