Almost every girl has been dreaming of their perfect wedding ever since they were little girls. Many aspire of the paradise-like setting; while their wedding gowns are billowing from behind. They imagine the chirping of precious birds which will evidently accompany the music of celebration. Others prefer the sea breeze and the powdery sands in their toes. And for reasons such as this and more, a wedding in Costa Rica might be the answer to a little girl’s dream.
Organizing a wedding in Costa Rica should be fairly smooth and easy if you thoroughly follow the legal instructions set by the government. Of course, you also have to ensure that you allot ample time for the preparation. Read on and find out the most frequently asked questions about having a wedding in Costa Rica.
First things first, take note that Costa Rica requires a valid passport for foreigners who are planning a wedding in Costa Rica. Getting a visa is not a prerequisite since most visitors do not require one upon entering Costa Rica. A visa is only required if you are migrating in the country.
Certifications or authentications are no longer necessary. The sworn statement by the bride and groom already covers the matters that need to be notarized or authenticated. Two close friends are best suited for witness duties as family relations up to third degree (of both parties) are not allowed to bear witness.
There is no minimum period of stay or records of permanent residence required for a couple to get married in Costa Rica. If you have been previously divorced, details such as the place, date, name of court which decreed the divorce and full name of ex- spouse should be indicated in the sworn statement.
A marriage certificate in Costa Rica takes three months to process and it will arrive via FedEx. For the rush processing option, it will be ready in 10-12 business days for an additional fee. This is a prerequisite for the marriage to be valid abroad. It will be translated, authenticated by the Consulate of the couple’s country of residence and should be registered at the city hall, town hall or any equivalent office. Once you get married in Costa Rica, you are deemed married in any part of the world.
The following information is required by most legal services in Costa Rica. They will help the bride and groom fulfill the legalities of their marriage:
• Full name, including the first, middle and last, Initials are not honored. • Description of occupation or profession. • Current home address and permanent address. • Passport containing the signature of the bearer, number and nationality. • Full name of parents and current citizenship. Again, no initials and full maiden names are required. • A mailing address where final documentation will be sent. PO Box addresses are not honored. • Home and mobile phone numbers, and email addresses.
Take note that it is a good idea to make several photocopies of the required documents in advance of filing.