Getting married legally in Colombia 2023: Everything You Need to Know
Colombia is a country known for its breathtaking natural beauty, warm and welcoming people, and vibrant culture. It's no surprise that many couples choose Colombia as their wedding destination. Getting married in Colombia in 2023 is an excellent choice for several reasons.
Firstly, Colombia has a wide range of stunning venues for your wedding ceremony, from beachfront locations to historic cathedrals and everything in between. You're sure to find a venue that suits your preferences and budget.
Secondly, Colombia's favorable exchange rate means that you can have a beautiful wedding without breaking the bank. Your money will go further in Colombia than it would in many other popular wedding destinations.
Finally, getting married in Colombia in 2023 is an excellent opportunity to combine your wedding with a romantic and unforgettable honeymoon. With so much to see and do in Colombia, you're sure to have an incredible time with your new spouse.
Before you start planning your wedding, it's essential to understand the legal requirements for getting married in Colombia in 2023. Here's what you need to know:
Legal Requirements
To get married legally in Colombia in 2023, both parties must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18, you'll need to obtain parental consent.
Both parties must also be single and not currently married. If you or your partner have been married before, you'll need to provide a divorce certificate or death certificate if your previous partner has passed away.
Necessary Documents
To get married legally in Colombia in 2023, you'll need to provide the following documents:
1. Valid passports
2. Birth certificates
3. Certificate of marital status (issued within the last 90 days)
4. Proof of parental consent (if applicable)
5. Divorce or death certificates (if applicable)
All documents must be translated into Spanish and authenticated by a notary public. You'll also need to provide two witnesses who are over 18 years old.
The Process
The process of getting married legally in Colombia in 2023 is relatively straightforward. Here's what you'll need to do:
1. Contact a notary public in Colombia and provide them with all the necessary documents.
2. The notary public will verify the documents and prepare the necessary paperwork.
3. You and your partner will need to sign the paperwork in the presence of the notary public.
4. The notary public will issue a certificate of marriage, which you'll need to register with the civil registry.
5.Once your marriage is registered, you'll receive a marriage certificate.
Choosing Your Wedding Venue in Colombia
Choosing the perfect venue for your wedding in Colombia is an important decision. Here are some things to consider:
1. Location: Do you want to get married in a bustling city, a quaint town, or a a scenic countryside setting?
2. Budget: What is your budget for the wedding venue, and how many guests do you need to accommodate?
3. Style: Do you prefer a traditional or modern venue, or something with a unique character?
4. Amenities: What kind of amenities does the venue offer, such as catering, decoration, and accommodation?
Colombia offers a wide range of wedding venues, from luxurious hotels to rustic farms and historic landmarks. Some popular choices include the Hacienda Santa Barbara in Bogotá, the Cartagena de Indias Convention Center in Cartagena, and the Villa de Leyva in Boyacá.
Planning Your Wedding in Colombia
Planning a wedding can be stressful, especially when you're doing it in a foreign country. Here are some tips to help you plan your dream wedding in Colombia:
Hire a wedding planner: A professional wedding planner can help you navigate the legal requirements, find the perfect venue, and coordinate all the details of your wedding.
Learn the language: While many Colombians speak English, it's always helpful to learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals and vendors.
Research vendors: Look for reliable vendors for your wedding, such as caterers, photographers, and florists. Read reviews and ask for referrals from locals and other couples who have gotten married in Colombia.
Plan for the weather: Colombia's climate can vary depending on the region and the time of year. Be sure to plan for the weather, especially if you're having an outdoor wedding.
Embrace the culture: Colombia has a rich cultural heritage, so consider incorporating some local traditions and customs into your wedding to make it even more special.
FAQs
Q: Can foreigners get married legally in Colombia in 2023?
A: Yes, foreigners can get married legally in Colombia in 2023 as long as they meet the legal requirements and provide the necessary documents.
Q: Do we need to be present in Colombia to get married legally in 2023?
A: Yes, both parties must be present in Colombia to sign the necessary paperwork in the presence of a notary public.
Q: How long does it take to get married legally in Colombia in 2023?
A: The process of getting married legally in Colombia in 2023 can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the availability of notary public and the time it takes to authenticate the documents.
Q: Can we have a religious ceremony in addition to the civil ceremony in Colombia in 2023?
A: Yes, you can have a religious ceremony in addition to the civil ceremony, but the civil ceremony must take place first.
Q: What kind of wedding venues are available in Colombia in 2023?
A: Colombia offers a wide range of wedding venues, from luxurious hotels to rustic farms and historic landmarks. Popular choices include beachfront locations, historic cathedrals, and countryside estates.
Q: Is it safe to get married in Colombia in 2023?
A: Colombia has made significant progress in improving its safety and security in recent years. However, it's always important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.