How to Get Married to Someone in Another Country

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the reliance on virtual communication, a trend particularly beneficial for long-distance couples. For those committed couples separated by geography, various video conferencing options provide an effective way to bridge the distance and maintain meaningful connections. Thanks to recent legal changes in the United States and technological advancements, even the traditional process of marriage can now be conducted online. Therefore, if you're wondering whether it's possible to marry someone from another country online, the answer is a resounding yes! Continue reading to discover how you can get married online.

Can You Get Married Online to Someone in Another Country?

Yes, you can get married online to someone in another country, and it is becoming an increasingly popular option for couples separated by geographical boundaries. Online weddings offer a convenient and efficient way to formalize a marriage without the need for both parties to be physically present in the same location.

The United States is the only country that has fully legalized online marriages, allowing each spouse to be in different locations during the ceremony. While other countries have transitioned some parts of the marriage process online, the U.S. is unique in offering a completely virtual marriage experience. The good news is that even if you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still get married online in the U.S., and these marriages are recognized in most countries. Here’s how it works and what you need to consider:

How Online International Marriages Work

1. Choose an Online Wedding Platform: Several services, like Courtly, offer online wedding ceremonies that are legally recognized. These platforms handle the legal paperwork and officiate the ceremony virtually.
2. Meet Legal Requirements: Ensure both parties meet the legal requirements for marriage in the country where the marriage is being registered. For the United States, this often includes age restrictions and providing identification documents.
3. Prepare Necessary Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, such as passports, birth certificates, and any previous divorce decrees if applicable. Some platforms may require notarized copies.
4. Schedule the Ceremony: Book a date and time for your ceremony. Many online services offer flexibility and can accommodate different time zones, making it easier for international couples.
5. Attend the Virtual Ceremony: The ceremony is conducted via a video conferencing platform. An officiant will lead the ceremony, and you may invite friends and family to join online.
6. Receive Marriage Certificate: After the ceremony, the marriage is legally registered, and you will receive a digital copy of your marriage certificate. A physical copy can often be mailed to you as well.

As of 2024, the United States is the only country that has fully legalized online marriages, allowing each spouse to be in different locations during the ceremony.

Considerations and Benefits

• US Marriage Certificate: If you opt for a fully online marriage, you will need to obtain a marriage license from Utah County in the United States.
• Legal Recognition: Ensure the marriage will be recognized in both parties’ countries. Some countries have specific requirements or do not recognize online marriages.
• Cost-Effective: Online weddings are generally more affordable than traditional ceremonies, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious couples.
• Flexibility and Convenience: With no need for travel, online weddings offer flexibility, making it easier to plan around work schedules and other commitments.
• Documentation: It's important to verify the legal standing of the marriage certificate in both countries for purposes such as immigration or official name changes.

Overall, getting married online to someone in another country is a feasible and increasingly popular option that combines modern technology with the timeless tradition of marriage.

Apostilles and Authentications for International Recognition

When marrying someone online in another country, it's crucial to ensure that your marriage certificate is recognized internationally. This often involves obtaining an apostille or authentication for the certificate. An apostille is a form of certification that verifies the authenticity of a public document, such as a marriage certificate, for use in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. If the country where you plan to use your marriage certificate is a member of this convention, you will need to obtain an apostille from the relevant government authority in the country where the marriage was registered.

For countries not part of the convention, you may need to go through a more complex authentication process, which typically involves additional steps such as certification by consulates or embassies. Ensuring your marriage certificate is properly apostilled or authenticated is essential for it to be legally recognized abroad, affecting various legal matters such as residency, immigration, and spousal rights. It is advisable to research the specific requirements of the country where you need the certificate to be recognized and plan accordingly to avoid any legal complications.

Required Documents for Non-U.S. Citizens

Marrying in the U.S. as a non-U.S. citizen is generally straightforward. Couples must present identification, such as a driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport, to the county where they intend to marry. Any valid government-issued photo ID should suffice. Citizenship or immigration status does not affect the ability to marry. However, it's important to be aware that each state has its own laws, which may include requirements such as a minimum age, blood tests, and waiting periods.

Requirements for Immigration

If you are considering U.S. immigration, it's important to note that having a U.S. marriage certificate or marrying a U.S. citizen does not automatically grant citizenship.  For example, if one spouse is a U.S. citizen, the non-citizen spouse must demonstrate that the marriage is genuine, exhibit good moral character, and fulfill several requirements to be eligible for a green card and eventual U.S. citizenship. These conditions include maintaining continuous residence in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident and living in a marital union with the citizen spouse for a minimum of three years. It is advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer to understand the specific requirements before deciding to marry.

How Courtly Can Help

Courtly is an innovative online wedding platform designed to make getting married remotely easy and stress-free. It offers comprehensive services that guide couples through every step of the online marriage process, from legal paperwork to the ceremony itself. Courtly ensures that your marriage is legally recognized by handling all necessary documentation and providing an officiant for your virtual ceremony.

The platform allows you to schedule your wedding at your convenience, accommodating various time zones and last-minute bookings. Courtly also offers personalized ceremony options, enabling you to tailor your wedding to your preferences and invite friends and family to join online. With its user-friendly interface and reliable customer support, Courtly simplifies the online wedding process, making it accessible and affordable for couples worldwide.

Online Marriage FAQs

Can I marry someone from another country online?

‍Yes, online marriages are possible and legally performed in certain jurisdictions, like the United States. You can get married without being physically present in the same location.

What are the legal requirements for marrying someone from another country?

‍Legal requirements vary by country and often include age restrictions, proof of identity, and documentation such as birth certificates and divorce decrees if applicable. It’s important to research the specific requirements of both countries involved.

If you are getting married online through Courtly, you will need to provide a government-issued ID and proof that you are over the age of 18. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to get married in the U.S.

Will my marriage be recognized in both countries?

‍Recognition of your marriage depends on the laws of each country. You may need to obtain an apostille or have your marriage certificate authenticated for international recognition.

What documents do we need to provide for an international marriage?

‍Commonly required documents include passports, birth certificates, and any previous marriage certificates or divorce decrees. Some countries may also require proof of residency or a marriage license.

What happens after we get married?

After marriage, you may need to apply for a visa or residency to live together in the same country. This process varies depending on the countries involved and can take time.

Can we have a religious ceremony if we are from different countries?

‍Religious ceremonies can often be arranged, but it’s important to check with the religious institution about their specific requirements for inter-country marriages.

For Muslim couples, Courtly also offers Online Nikah services performed by an experienced Imam. Our team can ensures that your Nikah is conducted with reverence, adhering to all necessary Islamic rites.