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E-mail this pageLegal requirements for getting married in Cozumel
Couples choose Cozumel as their wedding destination for several different reasons. However, whether it’s for the beautiful landscape, the world-class diving or the tranquil, unhurried atmosphere of the island, this tropical paradise proves to be a memorable backdrop for this special event. Getting married in Mexico is rather simple. The following checklist shows you the legal requirements for your wedding in Cozumel.
- Original passport or birth certificate with apostille from secretary of state at which the certificate is registered. Birth certificate must be accompanied with a valid government issued photo ID with matching name.
- Copy of tourist card
- Medical Certificate (blood test) issued within 20 days of wedding date. It is recommended that the blood test be taken in Mexico. If taken in the United States, verification tests need to be obtained by a Mexican doctor.
- Final divorce decree (if applicable)
- 4 witnesses with passports above the age of 18
There are two ways to get married in Mexico. One is a ceremony at the Civil Registry in Cancun. A Mexican official will conduct the service. It can be compared to a ceremony a Justice of the Peace would hold in the United States or Canada.
The other way to celebrate your wedding is with a religious or non-denominational ceremony. These are conducted by various Mexican Ministers who are all fluent in English. There are different Ministers available for the different denominations. Some of the Ministers can also conduct a non-denominational ceremony where you can use your own vows. After either ceremony, the civil or the religious/non-denominational, you will receive a signed and sealed marriage license which has to be filed with the court of records in your home town. The marriage license fee is around $30. There is also a fee for performing the ceremony.
The couple will be required to pay $350 for the marriage license and judge’s services.