So, you’re dreaming of a romantic wedding in Spain? Maybe an intimate ceremony in the heart of Seville, a beachside “I do” in Ibiza, or an elegant affair in Madrid? If you’re an LGBTQ+ couple, Spain is one of the best places in the world to get married—where love is love, and the law is on your side.
But let’s be real—weddings aren’t just about love. They come with a little paperwork (okay, a lot of paperwork). So, let’s break down everything you need to know to make your Spanish wedding legally official while keeping the romance alive.
Is Same-Sex Marriage Legal in Spain? Yes, Here’s What You Need to Know
Absolutely! Spain was one of the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage back in 2005. This means that LGBTQ+ couples have the exact same marriage rights as heterosexual couples, including inheritance rights, adoption, and tax benefits.
However, the legal process can be a little tricky, especially if neither of you is a Spanish resident. Let’s dive into the details.
Can Foreigners Get Married in Spain?
Here’s the deal:
✅ If at least one of you is a legal resident of Spain, you can apply for a civil marriage.
❌ If neither of you is a resident, Spanish law doesn’t allow foreigners to legally marry in the country.
But don’t worry! Many international couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony in Spain and take care of the legal paperwork in their home country. That way, you still get your dreamy Spanish wedding without the bureaucracy headache.
💡 Some regions like Catalonia or the Balearic Islands might be more flexible—so check with local authorities!
Step-by-Step: How to Get Married in Spain as a Same-Sex Couple
If at least one of you is a Spanish resident, here’s how to legally tie the knot:
1. Gather Your Documents
You’ll need:
📌 Passports or national IDs
📌 Birth certificates (officially translated and apostilled)
📌 Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) – proof that you’re legally single
📌 Proof of residency (utility bills, rental agreements, etc.)
📌 Marriage application form (available at your local Civil Registry)
💡 If you’re planning a religious wedding, some additional documents may be required depending on the denomination.
2. Submit Your Application
Take your documents to the local Civil Registry Office (Registro Civil) in the city where you want to get married. Processing times can vary—some offices take up to 6 months, so start early!
3. Attend an Interview
Both of you will need to attend a short interview with a judge or civil official. It’s nothing scary—just to confirm that you’re getting married voluntarily.
4. Publication of Banns
A public notice will be displayed at the registry for 15 days to announce your upcoming marriage (you know, just in case someone objects like in the movies).
5. Receive Authorization & Get Married!
Once approved, you’ll get the green light to book your wedding date. After the ceremony, your marriage certificate will be issued, making everything official. 🎉
Best LGBTQ+ Wedding Destinations in Spain
Spain is packed with breathtaking wedding venues, from beachside celebrations to historic city ceremonies. Here are some of the best locations to say “Sí, quiero”:
| Location |
Why You’ll Love It |
Things to Consider |
| Barcelona |
Iconic Gothic cathedrals, rooftop venues, beachside elegance |
Can be pricey, tourist-heavy in summer |
| Seville |
Flamenco vibes, historic palaces, romantic sunsets |
Very hot in summer |
| Ibiza |
Boho-chic beach weddings, perfect for party lovers |
Some venues are expensive |
| Madrid |
Stylish city weddings with grand historic backdrops |
No beaches, but amazing urban charm |
| Granada |
Moorish palaces, stunning landscapes |
Smaller selection of venues |
Want to explore more? Check out:
🔗 Barcelona Tourism
🔗 Seville Tourism
🔗 Ibiza Travel
🔗 Madrid Official Guide
Wedding Planning Hacks from Couples Who’ve Done It
💡 Choose a smaller city for faster paperwork. Cities like Toledo or Valencia may have shorter processing times than Madrid or Barcelona.
💡 Hire a wedding planner. Local planners know the bureaucracy inside and out, saving you time and stress.
💡 Get a translator if needed. Legal documents and ceremonies are usually in Spanish, so having a professional translator helps avoid miscommunication.
💡 Book early! Popular venues and officiants get booked out at least a year in advance, especially for summer weddings.
Symbolic Weddings: The Easy Alternative
If the legal process sounds too complicated, a symbolic wedding might be your perfect solution. Many couples handle the legal paperwork in their home country and then have their dream ceremony in Spain.
🌿 Perks of a symbolic wedding in Spain:
✔ No paperwork hassle
✔ You can get married anywhere—beach, vineyard, castle, you name it!
✔ Total freedom to personalize your ceremony
Many wedding venues and planners specialize in symbolic ceremonies for international couples, so you’ll still get the full wedding experience—minus the stress!
Final Thoughts: Love Wins, Bureaucracy Follows
Spain is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the world, offering stunning wedding locations, full legal rights, and an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether you go the legal route or opt for a symbolic ceremony, your love story deserves the perfect setting.
So, what’s next? Start planning, pick your dream location, and let’s make magic happen!
Capture Every Happy Moment
Your wedding isn’t just a legal event—it’s the beginning of a lifetime of memories. And every moment deserves to be captured beautifully.
📸 Want breathtaking wedding photos that tell your love story?
Explore my wedding portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
📷 Looking for a photographer who gets you?
Check out my wedding packages: Investment Details
💌 Let’s chat about your dream wedding!
Contact me here: Let’s Connect
Ready to say “Sí, quiero” in Spain? Let’s make your love story unforgettable! 💕
