So, you’re dreaming of a destination wedding in Costa Rica — and you’re wondering, “Can we make it official there?” The answer is yes, you absolutely can have a legal wedding in Costa Rica! But like any international celebration, there are a few things you’ll need to know before saying “I do” with your toes in the sand.
Here’s your simple, no-stress guide to the legalities of getting married in Costa Rica.
Yes, You Can Get Legally Married in Costa Rica
Costa Rica welcomes foreigners to legally marry here — and the process is surprisingly straightforward, especially when working with a professional officiant or legal advisor who knows the system. Your marriage will be legally recognized in the U.S., and there’s no need to do anything once you get back home except celebrate.
What You’ll Need to Provide:
For a legal civil marriage in Costa Rica (as a foreign couple), you’ll need to submit the following:
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Valid passports for both parties
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A sworn statement of single status (your officiant or lawyer will typically provide this form)
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Basic personal information (parents’ full names, countries of birth, occupations)
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Witnesses (two are required — they must be over 18 and not immediate family)
Pro tip: Many officiants in Costa Rica will help coordinate all of this for you. If you’re using a local planner or venue concierge, they can connect you with an English-speaking lawyer or legal officiant who will walk you through everything.
Civil vs. Symbolic Ceremony: What’s the Difference?
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A civil ceremony is the legally binding one. It must be performed by an authorized officiant (often a lawyer) and follows Costa Rica’s legal protocols. Afterward, your marriage is officially registered with Costa Rica’s National Registry.
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A symbolic ceremony is non-binding — perfect for couples who’ve already been legally married at home or just want the celebration without paperwork. These ceremonies can be totally personalized and are often performed by a friend, family member, or non-legal officiant.
Many couples choose to do the paperwork at home and have the “real” celebration in Costa Rica — it’s 100% up to you!
After the Wedding: Registration & Documentation
If you go the legal route, here’s what happens after the ceremony:
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Your officiant submits your signed marriage documents to Costa Rica’s National Registry.
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You’ll receive a legal marriage certificate, typically within 6–12 weeks.
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The certificate will be translated and authenticated so it’s valid in your home country.
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Your lawyer or officiant will send you everything — you don’t need to make a trip to a government office.
Note: If you’re in a rush, ask about expedited service options. But in most cases, couples receive their documentation by mail within 1–2 months.
What About Religious Ceremonies?
Only Catholic ceremonies can be legally binding in Costa Rica — and they require a much more complex process with the church. For all other denominations or spiritual ceremonies, a civil ceremony is required for the marriage to be legal.
Quick Checklist
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✔️ Yes, you can get legally married in Costa Rica
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✔️ Work with a licensed officiant or lawyer who handles the paperwork
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✔️ You’ll need passports, witness info, and a single-status declaration
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✔️ Your marriage will be valid in the U.S.
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✔️ Or, skip the paperwork and just have a symbolic ceremony in paradise
Final Thoughts
Getting married in Costa Rica is not only romantic and unforgettable — it’s also very doable! Whether you choose a legal ceremony under the palms or handle the paperwork back home and keep things symbolic on the beach, the most important part is celebrating your love, your way.
