Mexico

Although Mexico is part of the North American continent, its tradition belongs more to Central and South America.

Mexico is a magical mix of colour, energy and history. Huge temples, colonial churches and pyramids provide a living reminder of past mighty civilisations that flourished here over 2,000 years ago. Modern Mexico too, is a place of fun and excitement. Whether you soak up the sun on Mexico’s Caribbean beaches or explore the ancient sites, you will enjoy an excellent standard of hotels, varied shopping and, best of all, the warmth and friendliness of the Mexicans themselves.

Weather

Key to symbols used:

T - Average daily maximum temperatures
S - Average daily sunshine hours
R - Average monthly rainfall (if higher than 0.5”)

Flight time: 11.5 hours
GMT + or -: - 6
Visa: Not required

As with the USA legal requirements in Mexico vary from state to state so it is essential if you are planning your Mexican wedding yourselves that you contact the Mexican Consulate for accurate information. (See Further Information for address). Marriages are performed at the ‘Oficina del Registro Civil’ (Civil Registers Office) for a fee, which can range from $100 to $250 in resort areas. Every city and town has an office. Most people in this office do not speak English, which is where a wedding co-ordinator comes in handy if you don’t speak Spanish. The ceremony can be performed elsewhere, but you will need to check with the office for information and extra fees.

Documents and Legal requirements
Residency: No Mexican residential requirements are applicable but you should allow a few days for legal checks.
Blood tests and x-rays: You must have a blood test done in Mexico and the Civil Registers Office can recommend a doctor or clinic.
Proof of ID: Your original birth certificates*, a valid 10-year passport and an entry permit will all be required.
Proof of status: For marriages to take place in Mexico you must both attend your local Register Office in the UK (a seven days residency in the district is required) and give ‘notice of marriage’. After twenty-one days a ‘certificate of no impediment’* will be issued (£25.00). This certificate is only valid for three months.
Divorced: A divorced person cannot marry in Mexico until one year after the divorce has been finalised (this may vary in different areas and proof of divorce may be enough). You must provide your Decree Absolute* with court stamp.
Widowed: If you are widowed you must produce the death certificate* of your former spouse.
Age restriction: Minors under 18 cannot marry without written and notarised permission from a parent or legal guardian.
Name change: If your name has been changed by Deed Poll* you must provide the legal proof stamped and signed by a solicitor. This also applies if a married woman has reverted back to her maiden name.

Ceremonies
In Mexico only civil marriages are recognised as legal. You may have a religious ceremony but it will have no legal implications. A civil wedding is fully valid for legal purposes worldwide but a religious wedding without a civil ceremony is not.

Important
All documents marked * have to be translated into Spanish by a legal translator and the certified by the Legalisation Department at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London (see further information for address).

Note: the ceremony is conducted in Spanish in the presence of an interpreter and the marriage certificate is in Spanish.

Further information

Always check with local authorities as this information may be subject to change.