The Ultimate Guide to Getting Married in France: Legal Requirements for International Couples
- Isabel Raposo
- May 9
- 4 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Getting married in France is a dream come true for many couples, especially those seeking a romantic destination wedding in a beautiful château or vineyard. But before you say "I do" in the land of love, it's important to understand the legal steps involved—especially for couples coming from abroad. The process may seem a bit daunting, but with the right information, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Understanding French Marriage Laws for Foreigners
First and foremost, couples who are not residents of France must meet certain requirements to marry on French soil. Fortunately, France is welcoming to international couples, but there are some legal steps to follow to ensure everything is official.
Who Can Get Marry in France?
Both partners must be:
At least 18 years old (with some exceptions for minors under specific conditions).
Unmarried (or legally divorced or widowed, with appropriate documentation).
Same-sex marriage has been legal in France since 18 May 2013
Couples may also marry in France regardless of nationality, provided that they meet the legal requirements of their home country. Learn more about French marriage law for foreigners
Where Can You Get Married in France?
In France, marriages must be conducted at a town hall (Mairie) or a legally authorized venue. This is a significant difference from many other countries where weddings can be held in any location, such as churches or private venues.
Civil Ceremony: A civil ceremony at the Mairie is the only legally recognized form of marriage in France. Religious ceremonies may be held afterward but are not legally binding without the civil ceremony.
Destination Weddings: If you're planning to marry at a château or vineyard, you can do so for the celebration, but the legal marriage must be performed at the local town hall.
Required Documents for International Couples
For foreign couples wishing to marry in France, the following documents are required:
Valid Passports: Both parties must present a valid passport.
Birth Certificates: Original birth certificates (translated into French) issued within the last three months.
Proof of Residence: If neither of you resides in France, you can't legally get married in France but you can still have a symbolic ceremony and get legally married in the UK.
Certificat de Célibat: This certificate proves that you are unmarried. It may be required depending on your nationality.
Attestation of Law: Some nationalities must provide proof that their country of origin does not object to their marriage in France.
Divorce Decree or Death Certificate (if applicable): If either of you has been married before, you will need to provide a divorce decree or spouse’s death certificate.
Marriage Notice: A public notice of your intent to marry is usually displayed at the local Mairie for a period of 10 days prior to the ceremony.
After you’ve submitted your documents, the Mairie will display a notice of your intent to marry for a period of 10 days. This public notice ensures that there are no legal objections to the marriage. If there are no objections, you will be able to marry.
The civil ceremony can usually take place at the Mairie after this waiting period, and you will need to provide at least two witnesses to be present during the ceremony.
Booking the Mairie: It’s essential to book your wedding date well in advance, especially in popular regions.
Civil Ceremony: What to Expect
The civil ceremony itself is relatively simple, you’ll exchange vows, sign the official register, and receive your livret de famille as proof of marriage. While you can choose a location for your celebration, only the civil ceremony at the Mairie is legally binding.
If you’d like to have a religious ceremony afterward, you are free to do so, but it won’t be legally recognized without the civil ceremony first.
Symbolic Ceremonies or Celebrant-led Ceremonies: More Personal, More Memorable
While France’s civil ceremonies at the mairie are required for legal marriage, they’re often brief, formal, and limited in personalization. For non-residents who don’t meet the strict legal criteria, a symbolic or celebrant-led ceremony it’s a chance to create something far more meaningful and intimate.
Symbolic weddings give you complete creative freedom. There are no legal scripts or venue restrictions. You can exchange vows under an ancient tree, beside a lavender field, or inside a candlelit château hall. Your ceremony can reflect your culture, beliefs, shared history, and personal style—whether that means incorporating readings, rituals, music, or multilingual elements.
Celebrants in France are often bilingual and highly experienced with international couples. They work closely with you to craft a heartfelt script that it's completely tailored to you and tells your love story. Symbolic ceremonies become the emotional heart of your wedding, they offer a chance to celebrate love in a way that feels authentic, relaxed, and unforgettable.
Your Dream Wedding in France
Marrying in France is an unforgettable experience, offering stunning venues and the romance of a historic destination. While having the destination wedding can seem intimidating, with the right help and preparation, you can make your French wedding dreams a reality.
Ready to start planning your wedding in France? Check out our curated list of luxury château wedding venues in France to find the perfect spot for your celebration.
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