Finding a ring under the tree can be a dream come true. And if that dream leads to a destination wedding, The Perfect Translation is here to help. Whether you’re thinking about getting married abroad in a beachfront ceremony in Mexico, a romantic elopement in Italy, or a traditional celebration in Japan, there’s a fair amount of paperwork to go with the romance – and that’s where certified translations come in.
If any of the documents you’re submitting for your marriage license are in a language different from the country where you’re getting married, you’ll need certified translations. These types of translations ensure that the translation is complete and accurate, so government officials abroad will accept them as valid. Without certified translations, authorities may reject your paperwork – potentially delaying or even preventing your wedding ceremony.
The Most Common Documents That Require Certified Translation When Getting Married Abroad
Requirements vary from country to country, but these are the documents couples are most frequently asked to provide.
1. Passports or Government-Issued IDs
Your passport serves as proof of your identity and nationality. Many countries require a certified translation of the identification page if it’s not in their official language.
2. Birth Certificates
Birth certificates confirm your age, identity, and place of birth – all standard details for marriage licenses worldwide. Some countries also request a long-form certificate, so be sure to check with the local authorities where you’re getting married abroad.
3. Single Status Affidavit (Certificate of No Impediment)
This document states that you’re legally free to get married. Depending on your home country, it may be issued by a county clerk, consulate, or government office. It almost always needs a certified translation because it plays a central role in the approval of your marriage.
4. Divorce Decrees or Death Certificates (If Applicable)
If either you or your partner were previously married, you’ll need to prove the legal end of that marriage. Divorce judgments and death certificates must be translated – and sometimes even apostilled.
5. Parental Consent Forms for Minors
Some countries allow marriage under the age of 18 with parental permission. These forms require certified translations if they’re written in a language that’s different than the primary language of the country where you’re getting married abroad.
6. Marriage Application or Local Civil Documents
Some international marriage offices require you to submit your forms in advance. If you must complete these documents in English first, you may need certified translations before submitting them abroad.
Do You Need Apostilles To Get Married Abroad?
Certified translations and apostilles are not the same thing. A certified translation verifies the accuracy of the translated text. An apostille verifies the authenticity of the original document for use in countries that follow the Hague Apostille Convention. Some countries require both the document and its certified translation to be apostilled. At The Perfect Translation, we help couples getting married abroad understand exactly which steps apply to their destination wedding.
Tips for a Stress-Free Translation Process
- Research requirements early: Some countries require documents to be issued within a specific time frame (i.e., no more than 90 days before your ceremony).
- Work with a professional translation company: Not all translators are certified, and many countries won’t accept uncertified translations.
- Submit clear, complete documents: Blurry scans or missing pages may cause delays.
- Ask about turnaround times: The Perfect Translation offers expedited service for couples on tight schedules.
Say “I Do” With The Perfect Translation
Yes, getting married abroad comes with extra paperwork, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Trust the team of experts at The Perfect Translation for accurate, timely translations that meet the legal standards of the country you’re getting married in. We’ll take care of the details so you can enjoy every moment leading up to your big day. Contact us today for a free quote.
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