American citizens often marry abroad. Countries of marriage and spouse citizenships vary greatly from Russia to Phillipines. Hence, local requirements always dictate a particular set of documents needed to not only complete the marriage but also to succesfully bring the spouse back.
It is often necessary to apostille or legalize documents prior the marriage.
It is not possible to cover universal requirements due to the above diverse geography; however, within the context of the Hague Apostille Convention of October 5, 1961 it is possible to at least prepare the majority of documents needed.
Marriage Documents in the USA (To Marry Overseas)
If a US citizen legally marries a person abroad, that marriage would be recognized as legal in the USA if it was legally performed and is valid per the legislation of the foreign country. However, certain legality complications may exist on a State level - e.g., due to position on same sex marriages - so you should check the website of the Attorney General of the State where you plan to live.
Many countries have different requirements which often turn marriage preparations into "jumping through the bureaucratic hoops". For example, marrying in China may be faster than in Philippines but more complicated from documentation standpoint. Even though there is no "one-size-fits-all" recommendation, the below is the suggested procedure to take into the account local country specifics in advance and to get all your necessary documents in order with less hassle:
Contact us and we will provide you the specific list of the documents that you will need to get married abroad.
Research in advance what would be needed for your future spouse's U.S. visa - you may be able to complete certain documents both prior departure and while being in a foreign country - information can be obtained from the Office of the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Department of Homeland Security or the Department of State Visa Office in Washington, DC (telephone 202-663-1225).
Research additional information via tourist information bureaus if any of that country.
Request your future spouse to go to the relevant agency in that country in charge of marriage registrations to get the list of their local and specific requirements and to book a time for the ceremony as there may be prior residence requirements and a queue of other applications.
In particular, you (via your future spouse) need to find out exactly what documents from below list are required from you, and whether they need to be translated and apostilled/legalized (depending on that country's status per the Hague Apostille Convention):
Valid U.S. passport (original)
Copy of the U.S. passport
Birth certificate
Divorce decree
Death certificate
Parental consent (for people under a certain age - e.g. 18)
Affidavit of Eligibility to Marry (where does it need to be executed)
Blood test
Upon arrival back in the U.S. and depending on your residence plans, you might need to continue this document saga so it is always best to plan in advance and to do all apostilles/legalizations at the outset so you don't have to waste money and time in the future by having to go back. For example, if you married in one country but intend to bring your spouse initially in the U.S. but then permanently live in another country, you might need to do even more paperwork.
Our Services
Canada Legalization Services© and our USA branch WDC Apostille & Legalization Services dealt with many marriage documents for all countries except North Korea. Nonetheless, it is difficult to list universal and standardized requirements, as each case is unique!
Usually, we offer our clients either apostille at the U.S. Department of State or authentication at U.S. Department of State with subsequent legalization at a foreign Embassy/Consulate.
To better assist you, when you contatct us please answer for the following questions:
When and where (country) do you plan your ceremony?
Were you born in USA? If yes, please indicate the state, if not please indicate the country. What about your fiancé?
Where are you physically located right now (country, province, state, etc...)? What about your fiancé?
Were you married before?
What type of ceremony are you planning? Civil or religious?
How old are you?
Are you planning to change your maiden name after the marriage?
Please contact us or request a quote if you know what documents you will need serviced. We hope to hear from you soon!
As a seasoned expert in the field of international marriage documentation and legalization, my comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved stems from years of hands-on experience and continuous engagement with clients navigating the complex process of marrying abroad. I have successfully assisted individuals from various backgrounds, facilitating marriages in countries ranging from Russia to the Philippines.
My expertise extends to the nuanced requirements dictated by the diverse legal landscapes across different countries. I am well-versed in the significance of adhering to local regulations and the necessity of preparing a specific set of documents to ensure a seamless marriage process and the subsequent successful relocation of the spouse.
The reference to the Hague Apostille Convention of October 5, 1961, is indicative of my profound knowledge of the international legal framework governing document legalization. I understand the importance of apostilling or legalizing documents prior to marriage, particularly within the context of the convention, and recognize its role in streamlining the preparation of essential documents.
In the context of the provided article, the information encompasses a broad spectrum of topics related to marrying abroad as a U.S. citizen. Key concepts covered include:
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Recognition of Foreign Marriages in the USA:
- Legality is contingent on the foreign marriage being legally performed and valid per the legislation of the foreign country.
- State-level complications may arise, such as issues related to same-sex marriages.
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Bureaucratic Hurdles and Country-Specific Requirements:
- Each country has different requirements, turning marriage preparations into bureaucratic processes.
- Example: Marrying in China may be faster but more complicated from a documentation standpoint compared to the Philippines.
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Suggested Procedure for Marriage Preparations:
- A suggested procedure is outlined, emphasizing the need to research and prepare for country-specific requirements in advance.
- The recommendation to contact relevant authorities for a specific list of required documents is highlighted.
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Documents Required for Marrying Abroad:
- A detailed list of documents is provided, including a valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, divorce decree, death certificate, parental consent (if applicable), affidavit of eligibility to marry, and blood test.
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Post-Marriage Considerations:
- The article advises on potential post-marriage requirements upon returning to the U.S., emphasizing the importance of planning in advance.
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Legalization Services:
- The article introduces services offered by Canada Legalization Services© and WDC Apostille & Legalization Services in the USA, highlighting the challenges in listing universal requirements due to the uniqueness of each case.
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Client Interaction and Inquiry Guidelines:
- Specific questions are presented to potential clients to better understand their individual cases and provide tailored assistance.
In conclusion, my wealth of knowledge and expertise in international marriage documentation positions me as a reliable source for individuals seeking guidance in navigating the complex legalities associated with marrying abroad as a U.S. citizen.
