Love Across Borders: How to Get Married in Colombia as a Foreigner

Every year, more foreign citizens choose to share their lives with a Colombian partner. Deciding to marry in Colombia is a deeply meaningful step, but executing a civil wedding involving two different legal systems requires careful preparation.

Understanding the precise documentation requested by Colombian authorities ensures that your application moves smoothly and your focus remains on celebrating your commitment.

What Documents Do You Need?

The local notary (Notaría) requires specific paperwork to confirm both your identity and your single marital status before granting a wedding date. All documents originating abroad must carry an Apostille (or legalisation chain where applicable) and must be translated into Spanish by a certified official translator.

**Requirement For the Foreign Citizen **

• Birth Certificate: Official copy + Apostille + Official Spanish translation.
• Single Status Certificate: (Certificado de Soltería) + Apostille + Official translation. If divorced, the official divorce decree + Apostille + Official translation. Children (if applicable)
• Birth certificates of any children + Apostille + Official translation.

Requirement for Colombian National

• Birth certificate (Registro Civil de Nacimiento) with marginal notes, issued within the last 30 days: Marginal notes on the birth certificate will reflect single or divorced status.
• Birth certificates of any children.
• An inventory of assets (Inventario Solemne de Bienes) may apply if minors are involved.

**Document Validity ** Documents (including apostilles and translations) must not be older than 90 days when presented to the Notary. Birth certificate must not be older than 30 days upon submission.

How the Civil Marriage Process Works Once you have gathered and translated your entire folder, both of you must present yourselves in person at the notary office in the city where you reside in Colombia to officially request your marriage date. During this initial step, the notary reviews the validity and expiration dates of every file. If the foreign partner does not speak fluent Spanish, Colombian legal protocol mandates that a licensed official interpreter be present throughout the formal procedure to guarantee full legal understanding. After the notary completes the verification, your wedding date is assigned, and you will receive your official Marriage Certificate (Registro Civil de Matrimonio) on the very day of your celebration.

How Capital M Law Supports Your Journey

Organizing international legal documents under strict validity timelines can quickly become stressful. At Capital M Law, we manage the legal complexities so you can enjoy this special moment with peace of mind. Our specialized assistance packages cover every stage of the process, including drafting pre-nuptial agreements (Capitulaciones Matrimoniales), managing document procurement and verification, and handling your post-wedding Marriage Visa application (Visa M de Cónyuge). If you are ready to start your life together in Colombia, schedule a consultation with our legal team today and let us guide you every step of the way!