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Getting married in Mexico?
In Mexico only civil marriage is recognized as legal. Persons wishing to get married in Mexico may also have a religious ceremony, but it will have no legal implications. A civil wedding in Mexico is fully valid for legal purposes worldwide. However, a religious wedding without a civil ceremony is not. Foreigners wishing to marry a Mexican citizen must obtain authorization from the National Institute for Migration (Instituto Nacional de Migracion).
The following are the requirements for marriage in Mexico. Marriage requirements prevailing in the thirty-one states of Mexico are in general very similar. Take note that this is general information, wedding requirements can vary from state to state; please check with the appropriate state offices for exact details that are listed below.
Requirements for Marriage in Civil Registry Office
- Completed marriage application, giving exact names of applicants, just as they appear in their birth certificates (Article 93 of the Civil Code)
Birth Certificate and three photocopies (Mexican Citizen).
For the American Citizen birth certificate translated into Spanish. "FMT" form (Tourist or Residence), and a special permit to marry in Mexico issued by Mexican Immigration. All documents from the U.S., except for the valid U.S. passport, must be authenticated by an American authority (usually the Secretary of State), from the state where they originated, who attaches an "Apostille" to the document.
Four witnesses. Two for each applicant (over 18 yrs. of age) with original and copy of a valid photo I.D (both sides).
- Persons desiring to marry must fill out at an application at the corresponding office of the "Registro Civil", which will include a statement as to whether they wish to marry under the system of joint or separate marital property.
- Medical examination, issued by the local General Hospital, or by another public or private entity of their selection, which should include HIV, and blood test, issued no more than 15 days before the marriage takes place. Medical examinations from the U.S. are NOT acceptable.
- Photo I.D. and a copy (both sides) for each of the applicants.
- If applicants are divorced or widowed, they should present the corresponding divorce or death certificates and three copies. Divorced people cannot marry in Mexico until one year after the termination of the divorce.
- When one or both of the persons marrying is/are under the age of 18, the parents of the minor(s) must present photo I.D. to be able to give their consent and must accompany them first to City Hall to obtain an "Underage Permit" and then to the Civil Registry Office. Take note under no circumstances can males under the age of sixteen, or females under the age of fourteen, be married in Mexico.
Marriage Rates
- Public Ceremony: $99.00 Pesos (About 10.00 Dollars)
- Private Ceremony: $139.00 Pesos (About $14.00 Dollars)
- Marriage Performed at Home: $2,080.00 Pesos (About $210.00 Dollars
Rates are subject to change. Check with individual state for updated prices.
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