(A must-read guide for couples dreaming of a romantic wedding in the land of tango, Malbec, and breathtaking landscapes!)
So, you’re thinking about getting married in Argentina? Picture this: you and your love exchanging vows under the shade of an ancient ombú tree, a glass of world-class Malbec waiting nearby, and the distant sound of tango music drifting through the air. Sounds dreamy, right?
But before you can dance into the sunset, there’s a small thing called bureaucracy. Argentina, like any good romance, requires patience, a few official documents, and a little bit of strategy to get to the “I do.” This guide will walk you through everything—from legal paperwork to dreamy wedding locations—so you can focus on what really matters: celebrating your love.
Can Foreigners Legally Get Married in Argentina?
Yes! Foreigners can absolutely get married in Argentina, but you’ll need to navigate some legal steps first. The good news? It’s easier than in many other countries (looking at you, France 🇫🇷 and Italy 🇮🇹). The process is relatively straightforward, but there are a few quirks you should know about.
Let’s break it down:
Wedding Requirements for Foreigners in Argentina
📌 1. Valid Passport
Both partners must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the wedding date.
📌 2. Birth Certificate (Apostilled & Translated)
Your birth certificate must be:
✅ Translated into Spanish by a certified translator
✅ Apostilled (an official legalization for international use)
📌 3. Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (Certificado de Soltería)
This document proves that neither of you is married back home. You can obtain it from:
✔️ Your embassy in Argentina (check your embassy’s website)
✔️ Your home country (then apostilled & translated)
📌 4. Residency Requirement – The Trickiest Part
Argentina requires at least one partner to stay in the country for a minimum of five days before applying for marriage. Some provinces may ask for proof of residence (hotel booking, rental contract, or a sworn affidavit).
📌 5. Two Witnesses (Not Family Members)
You need two witnesses who are at least 18 years old. They cannot be family members and must provide valid IDs or passports.
📌 6. Medical Exam (Sometimes Required)
Some provinces require a blood test or medical certificate before marriage. Buenos Aires does not, but it’s always good to double-check with the local Registro Civil.
💰 How Much Does It Cost to Get Married in Argentina?
The cost depends on the province, but here’s a general idea:
💵 Civil registry fee: $10–$50
💵 Document translation & apostille fees: $100+
💵 Venue rental (optional): $500–$5000 (if you want a ceremony outside the registry office)
Want to make it extra special? Private estates, vineyards, or even a ceremony at the foot of the Andes mountains will cost more, but it’s totally worth it!
🏛️ Where to Apply for a Civil Marriage in Argentina
Marriage applications must be submitted at the local Registro Civil (Civil Registry Office).
📍 Buenos Aires Civil Registry: www.buenosaires.gob.ar/tramites/matrimonio
If you’re marrying in another city, check the local Registro Civil website or visit in person.
💡 Step-by-Step Process to Get Married in Argentina
1️⃣ Book an appointment at the local Registro Civil at least one month in advance
2️⃣ Submit your documents (translated & apostilled)
3️⃣ Pay the administrative fee (varies by province)
4️⃣ Show up with your witnesses on the wedding day
5️⃣ Sign the marriage certificate and enjoy the celebrations! 🎉
🌍 Best Wedding Locations in Argentina
Argentina is not just Buenos Aires—this country is packed with breathtaking locations for a wedding.
💃 Buenos Aires – European Elegance Meets Latin Passion
If you love European-style architecture, historical mansions, and vibrant city energy, Buenos Aires is perfect.
📌 Top venues: Palacio San Miguel, Alvear Palace Hotel, or a charming old villa in Recoleta.
🍷 Mendoza – The Ultimate Wine Lover’s Wedding
Imagine a vineyard wedding with the Andes Mountains in the background and endless glasses of Malbec. Pure magic!
📍 Top vineyard venue: Bodega Norton
🏔️ Bariloche – A Fairytale in the Mountains
If you dream of a lakeside wedding, Bariloche is a Swiss-style paradise with stunning scenery.
📍 Perfect for an intimate, winter wonderland wedding.
❄️ Ushuaia – A Wedding at the End of the World
If you’re looking for a truly unique wedding, why not tie the knot in the southernmost city in the world? The dramatic landscapes will make your ceremony unforgettable.
✨ Bonus Tips for a Stress-Free Wedding in Argentina
💡 Hire a Local Wedding Planner – They can handle legal paperwork and coordinate everything (especially if you don’t speak Spanish).
💡 Consider the Season – Argentina’s seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. If you want a summer wedding, book between December and February.
💡 Symbolic Ceremonies & Religious Weddings – If you want a religious wedding, you must first have a civil ceremony, as only civil marriages are legally recognized.
💡 Photography Matters! – Argentina’s landscapes are breathtaking, and you’ll want the best photos to capture the magic. (That’s where I come in 😉).
🎥 Ready to Capture Your Love Story in Argentina?
Now that you know how to legally get married in Argentina, it’s time to focus on what really matters—making your wedding unforgettable!
📸 Want dreamy wedding photos in Argentina? I specialize in capturing raw emotions and stunning landscapes that turn your wedding into timeless memories.
✅ See my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
✅ Explore photography packages: Investment Details
✅ Let’s plan your wedding shoot: Contact Me
So, are you ready to say “Sí, quiero” in the most magical place on Earth? 💃🥂
