The requirements to get married in Mexico can vary across the 31 States and the Federal District, as each entity has its own General Civil Registry Office. Therefore, you are advised to contact the office directly where you are planning to get married to obtain information about the process and requirements. The requirements listed here are for the State of Morelos and were correct at the time of this writing, but are subject to change. The State of Morelos recognizes same sex marriages.
Required Documents
Legal vs. symbolic marriage: A civil ceremony is the only legally recognized marriage in Mexico. Symbolic ceremonies do not have legal standing.
Previous Marriages: If one or both parties are divorced or widowed, submit the appropriate certificate (e.g, death certificate of the former spouse, or absolute court divorce decree). These documents must be apostilled/legalized and translated into Spanish.
All Documents must be in Spanish: Any document not in Spanish must be officially translated by a certified translator in Mexico. Thus, all foreign documents must be apostilled or legalised in their country of origin and then translated into Spanish by an official translator in Mexico. The Embassy or Consulate in Mexico should be able to provide a list of official translators.
Age Requirements: If one or both parties are under 18, they must submit original parental permission granted by the parents or guardians or an emancipation document, duly legalized.
Passport and proof of legal entry: A valid passport and your Mexican migratory form (tourist card, visa, etc.) are necessary.
Birth certificate: A certified copy of your birth certificate is needed, apostilled (or legalized) in the foreigner’s home country, and then translated into Spanish by a certified translator in Mexico.
Pre-nuptial Agreement: The parties must specify whether they wish to get married under the system of Joint Ownership Property (sociedad conyugal) or under a Non-joint Ownership Property (separación de bienes).
Pre-nuptial medical certificate: You cannot use medical certificates from your home country; the required tests must be performed in Mexico. Obtain a medical certificate in Mexico that includes blood and X-ray results no more than 14 days before the application.
Application and property regime: Complete the marriage application at the Civil Registry office and specify your property regime (joint or separate ownership).
Witnesses: Four witnesses, over 18, each with official identification, must be present at the ceremony.
Fees: Pay the fees set by the local Civil Registry office.
After the marriage, while in Mexico, it is advisable to obtain enough certified copies of the marriage certificate and have them apostilled. The Mexican Embassy is unable to request documents on your behalf.
The marriage in Mexico may not be registered in some countries. Still, it will usually be recognised as a legal marriage if it is valid in Mexico.
Steps to Take
Gather and legalize documents: Get an apostille for your birth certificate and divorce/death certificate (if applicable) from your home country and have them officially translated into Spanish.
Obtain medical certificates: Complete the required blood tests and medical exams at a local hospital in Mexico.
Apply at the Registro Civil: Visit the local Civil Registry office to submit your application and all documents.
Pay the fee: You will receive an invoice to pay at a local bank.
Schedule the ceremony: Return to the Registro Civil with your payment receipt to schedule your ceremony date.
Attend the ceremony: Arrive 30 minutes early with your witnesses.
