Getting married in Costa Rica is simple and straightforward! There’s no need for extensive paperwork, blood tests, or lengthy waiting periods. All you need to start planning your big day is a valid passport.

Dreaming of saying “I do” in paradise? Costa Rica has countless options for your wedding. Whether you prefer stunning beaches or lush rainforests, you can pick the perfect spot to celebrate your love. And the best part? A Costa Rican notary can officiate your wedding anywhere in the country!

What Are the Legal Requirements for Marriage?

Whether you’re Costa Rican or from abroad, here’s what you need to know:

A. Be at least 18 years old.

B. Be free to marry, meaning you are not currently married to someone else.

C. Be of sound mind, which means both partners must fully understand and agree to the marriage.

You’ll also need two witnesses who can confirm your identity and your freedom to marry.

What Documents Are Required for Marriage?

If you’re not a Costa Rican citizen, just bring a valid passport that doesn’t expire for at least six months. If you’re marrying a Costa Rican, they’ll need their Costa Rican ID card and a Certificate of Civil Status. Don’t worry – we can help you get that Certificate!

What’s the Process?

Once you provide the details about both partners, your Costa Rican lawyer will prepare all the necessary legal paperwork. This includes a marriage deed and a sworn statement for the non-Costa Rican spouse, confirming their freedom to marry (meaning they’re not currently married).

You can hold your wedding ceremony anywhere in Costa Rica and have it led by a notary public. Whether you choose a picturesque beach or a more traditional setting, it’s up to you!

During the ceremony, both you and your partner will sign the marriage deed and the sworn statement. Your witnesses will also need to sign the marriage deed.

Remember, only judges, Catholic priests, and notaries are legally authorized to officiate weddings in Costa Rica. If you prefer a non-Catholic religious ceremony, a notary must still be present to make it legally binding.

How Valid Are Costa Rican Marriages?

Marriages performed in Costa Rica are legally recognized worldwide. Most couples opt for a civil ceremony led by a local notary public. After the ceremony, the notary will register your marriage with the Costa Rican government, and you’ll receive an official marriage certificate. This certificate can be translated and apostilled for use in other countries.

If you’re from another country and get married here, don’t forget to check the rules for registering a foreign marriage in your home country.

Are There Any Prohibitions for Marriage in Costa Rica?

In Costa Rica, you cannot marry in the following cases:

A. If you’re already married to someone else, you can’t marry again, even if you’re separated.

B. You can’t marry close relatives, such as siblings, parents, or grandparents. This includes adopted family members.

C. You can’t marry if one of the partners has been convicted of murdering the other’s spouse.

D. If either party is under 18 years of age.

Can You Register a Foreign Marriage in Costa Rica?

Absolutely! If one partner is Costa Rican, you can register your marriage here. Just bring the original marriage certificate from your home country, issued by the appropriate authority and duly apostilled, and submit your request. If the document isn’t in Spanish, it must be translated by an official translator.

For more information, please fill out the courtesy e-meeting form at the bottom. We’ll be happy to assist you!

You can also reach me at nbc@quatro.legal

Natalia Barboza
Senior Paralegal

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content, laws and regulations are subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please contact our office directly. Some images may be AI generated.