Marriage is a momentous occasion in the life of any couple, and in Spain, one of the most popular options is marriage by civil registry. This choice offers simplicity and legality, allowing couples to formalize their union effectively and without excessive complications. In this article on marriage by civil registry in Spain, we’ll discuss the requirements, the process, and the benefits of marriage by civil registry in Spain.
What procedures do you need to get married through civil registry?
The procedures required to get married through civil registry can be initiated at the Civil Registry of the municipality where the couple lives or where they have their habitual residence. If they live in different residences, they can choose the one that suits them best, and the location of the celebration can be any Civil Registry, Town Hall, or Notary chosen by the couple.
Additionally, a declaration from witnesses is required to start the process prior to the ceremony. When requesting the appointment, the documentation required for getting married in the civil registry is not necessary; this documentation must be presented on the day of the appointment.
On the day of the appointment, the couple and the witnesses of the wedding must be present, and the process authorizing the marriage will begin.
In summary, the procedures required to get married through civil registry are:
- Schedule an appointment at the Civil Registry.
- Submit the corresponding documentation.
- Personal and individual interview of the couple and witnesses.
- Resolution (approved or denied) authorizing the couple to get married.
Documents required for a civil registry marriage in Spain
In this section, we will explain and list all the documents required to get married civilly. Therefore, the documents needed for civil marriage are:
- Original and photocopy of the couple’s ID card, foreigner identification number (NIE), or passport.
- Birth certificate issued within the last year.
- Certificate of residency.
- Family book (in case of having had children together before April 2021, as the physical family book no longer exists since that date).
- Certificate of life and marital status (confirms if they are single before getting married).
- For foreigners, a Certificate of Marriage Capacity or Certificate of Singleness, as required by the law of their country.
- Divorced individuals need a literal certificate of the previous marriage with the marginal note of divorce or annulment.
- Widowed individuals need a literal certificate of the previous marriage and a literal certificate of the other spouse’s death.
What questions can the officiant ask for a civil marriage in Spain?
It’s very common that before saying «I do» at weddings, a brief speech dedicated to the couple is given. This speech is usually written and read by the couple’s best friends, so it’s advisable to conduct a short interview to prepare it. The most common questions typically asked include:
- How did you two meet?
- What are the best moments you’ve experienced together as a couple?
- How long have you been together?
- What is your favorite song?
How long does it take to formalize a marriage through civil registration in Spain?
Civil marriage in Spain is a lengthy and tedious process as there is no fixed timeframe to secure a date for the ceremony. This is because certain requirements, such as the marriage file, must be met. For this reason, we recommend getting married through a notary as it is the quickest way to marry without having to wait as long as with civil registration.
It’s worth noting that if one of the individuals in the couple is Spanish or European, whether you marry through civil registration or a notary, it’s the best option if you want to access family reunification (family regrouping or community family).
How is the process for obtaining the certificate of matrimonial capacity initiated and who issues it?
The Judicial Secretary, Notary, Civil Registry Official, or a designated official are responsible for initiating the process to obtain the certificate of matrimonial capacity.
For civil registry marriage, the Judicial Secretary or the Civil Registry Official is responsible for processing the file.
Once the file is processed by the Judicial Secretary or the Civil Registry Official, it concludes with the resolution authorizing the marriage, confirming that the couple meets the necessary requirements to marry. The certificate of matrimonial capacity is then issued to the couple, and it is valid for 6 months from the day it is issued.
What does marriage registration mean?
Marriage registration is the official record that confirms the legality of the marriage, including the date, time, and location of the ceremony.
Three types of marriages can be registered:
- Marriage where all the required criteria are met, registered in the individual records of the spouses.
- Marriage celebrated abroad recognized by the Spanish Civil Registry based on the corresponding certificate, provided it complies with Spanish law.
- Religious marriage celebrated in Spain, registered in the civil registry based on the certificate issued by the officiating clergy.
In summary, civil registry marriage in Spain is a convenient and legal option for couples wishing to formalize their union quickly and simply. Throughout this article, we have explored the requirements, process, and benefits of this type of marriage in Spain.
If you are considering civil marriage in Spain, make sure to be well informed about all the details and have the necessary documentation. Ultimately, civil registry marriage offers an accessible and valid alternative to celebrate your love and commitment in Spain.
If you have any further questions or need assistance with civil registry marriage, feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to help with anything you need.
Marta Palacios Cuesta is the founder and principal consultant of Es Abogado Extranjería, a law firm specializing in immigration law in Madrid and Seville. With an impressive academic background, Marta offers expert advice on immigration procedures, residency processes and obtaining Spanish nationality. Committed to providing personalized and up-to-date solutions, her firm stands out for its detailed and professional approach. If you need legal guidance regarding your status in Spain, contact Marta for a personalized consultation at Es Abogado Extranjería.