France, renowned for its captivating weather, culinary excellence, and stunning wedding venues, annually lures countless couples worldwide for their dream destination weddings. If you’re envisioning a French-inspired celebration, mastering the legal intricacies is crucial for planning your wedding in France.

Marriage Procedures in France

To get married in France, several documents are required as part of the legal process. The necessary documents may vary depending on nationality and individual circumstances, so it’s advisable to check with the local town hall (mairie) where you plan to have your ceremony for specific details. Here is a general list of documents typically required for a civil wedding ceremony in France:

1. Valid Identification:

1. Valid passports for both partners. Other forms of identification are also accepted.

2. Proof of Address or Residency:

2. Proof of address in France or a residency permit.

3. Original Birth Certificates:

3. Original birth certificates for both parties, dated within three months of the application. Translation by a sworn translator is necessary, and confirmation from the mairie is recommended before translation.

4. Witness Information:

4. A list of at least two witnesses with their personal details (ID or passport, job title, and address).

5. Additional Documents for Non-French Nationals:

5. Non-French nationals may need additional documents, such as a certificate of celibacy, affidavit of law, etc. These documents often require translation by an accredited translator and may need to go through an administrative procedure known as “apostille.” Specific fees may apply.

6. Prenuptial Agreement (Optional):

6. A copy of your prenuptial agreement, if applicable. Consultation with a French notary is recommended.

7. Proof of Residence in the Town:

7. Couples (or their parents) are generally expected to have been living in the town where the civil ceremony will take place for at least 30 days before the application. Proof of address, such as local council tax or utility bills, may be required.

It’s essential to note that the legal ceremony in France must take place at the local town hall (“mairie”), and civil ceremonies are not typically held in private venues or hotels. The ceremony is conducted by the local mayor or a delegate.

Marriage Agreement:

You may decide to have a marriage agreement or choose not to. If you opt not to have a marriage agreement, divorce proceedings will be governed by existing French law. Please also check your country of origin’s laws regarding this.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, contact the relevant local town hall or embassy well in advance of your planned wedding date. Be vigilant about any changes in legal requirements and procedures due to the evolving nature of regulations.

Once all your documents are ready, physically go to the local town hall or marie to schedule an appointment to submit them. Some mairies offer online appointments, so check their website. The mairie will keep your documents, and if they are satisfactory, they will contact you to propose an appointment for the marriage. Ideally, propose three dates, at least one month later than the day of document submission. A few weeks later, the mairie will confirm or propose a new date if the requested dates are unavailable.