So, you’ve decided to tie the knot in Brazil. Who can blame you? With its breathtaking beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural traditions, Brazil is a dream destination for couples looking to say “I do” in paradise. Whether you’re picturing a sun-soaked beach wedding in Rio de Janeiro or a historic ceremony in Salvador, you’ll want to make sure everything is legally set before you walk down the aisle. Here’s your ultimate guide to getting married in Brazil as a foreigner, with tips on the legal process, venues, and what to expect during your Brazilian wedding journey.
1. Essential Paperwork: Getting Everything in Order
First things first—before you can say your vows, you’ll need to take care of some paperwork. We know, we know—it’s not the most exciting part, but it’s crucial for ensuring your marriage is legally recognized. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:
Required Documents
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Valid Passport: Your passport is essential for proving your identity and nationality.
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Birth Certificate: You’ll need a recent copy of your birth certificate. If it’s not in Portuguese, you’ll have to get it translated into Portuguese by a certified translator.
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Certificate of No Impediment (CNI): This certificate proves that you are legally free to marry. For U.S. citizens, the U.S. Embassy in Brazil can issue this. The exact name of the document might differ depending on your nationality, but the purpose is the same.
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Proof of Legal Status: If you’ve been previously married, a divorce decree or widow’s certificate is required.
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Marriage Application: You’ll need to fill out a marriage application at the local civil registry office (cartório). This is where the legal magic happens.
Translation Services Don’t worry about the translations—you won’t have to do it yourself! You’ll need an official translation of your non-Portuguese documents into Portuguese, but there are plenty of certified translators in Brazil who can help with this.
2. The Civil Registry Office (Cartório): Where the Magic Happens
In Brazil, the civil registry office (cartório) is where the legal side of your wedding happens. It’s here that your marriage will be officially registered, so while you might picture exchanging vows on a beautiful beach or in a charming cathedral, the cartório is the place where your union becomes legally binding.
Important Tip: Brazil’s marriage laws state that one of the partners must have been residing in Brazil for at least 30 days before the wedding. So, plan accordingly if you’re flying in from abroad!
Most cartórios are familiar with foreign couples and can guide you through the process. If you’re not fluent in Portuguese, you may need an interpreter, but don’t worry—the staff is used to working with international couples and can help translate the paperwork for you.
3. Choosing Your Dream Wedding Venue in Brazil
Now for the fun part: choosing where to say your vows! Brazil is a land of stunning landscapes and incredible venues, making it the perfect place for a destination wedding. Whether you want to marry by the beach, in a lush garden, or inside a historical building, there are endless options.
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Rio de Janeiro: Known for its breathtaking beaches and iconic views, Rio de Janeiro is one of Brazil’s top wedding destinations. Whether you dream of a beachfront ceremony on Ipanema Beach or a more intimate setting in the hills of Santa Teresa, Rio has a venue for every couple. For a luxurious wedding with panoramic views, consider Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro.
Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro
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Bahia: If you’re looking for a wedding with rich cultural roots, Bahia is your place. Salvador, with its colonial charm and lively Afro-Brazilian traditions, is a spectacular choice. Picture a ceremony in the heart of Pelourinho, followed by a vibrant celebration full of music and dance.
Salvador Wedding Venues
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Florianópolis: For couples seeking a quieter, more intimate wedding, Florianópolis offers serene beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. Known for its natural beauty and tranquil vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a wedding that feels like a private paradise.
Florianópolis Wedding Venues
Whether you’re drawn to the party vibes of Rio or the calm beauty of Florianópolis, Brazil offers a venue to match every couple’s wedding style.
4. The Legal Ceremony and Religious Rituals: Making It Official
While the cartório handles the legal side of things, many couples opt for a religious or symbolic ceremony in addition to the civil one. In Brazil, you can incorporate religious elements like Catholic, Protestant, or Afro-Brazilian candomblé ceremonies. These can take place either before or after your legal marriage, depending on your preferences.
A religious ceremony adds a personal touch and allows you to tie the knot in a way that feels most meaningful to you. Just be sure to check with the officiant about any specific requirements for conducting the ceremony.
5. The Reception: Let the Party Begin!
Brazilian weddings are known for being lively and full of energy—and your reception will be no exception! The celebrations are all about family, friends, food, and dance. Expect delicious Brazilian dishes like feijoada (a hearty stew), grilled meats, and irresistible sweets. And, of course, don’t forget the drinks—caipirinhas are a must!
Brazilian weddings often go late into the night with guests dancing samba, forró, and other traditional Brazilian dances. It’s a joyful, unforgettable experience that captures the heart and soul of the country.
Pro Tip: Brazil is all about big, festive celebrations. If you’re planning a wedding in Brazil, get ready for a lively party that will likely last well into the early hours of the morning!
6. Why Brazil?
Brazil is more than just a beautiful country—it’s a place where love is celebrated in vibrant, unforgettable ways. From its stunning landscapes to its lively cultural traditions, Brazil is the ideal destination for couples who want a wedding that’s as memorable as it is beautiful.
So, whether you’re tying the knot on a sunny beach or in the heart of a bustling city, your wedding in Brazil will be an experience you’ll treasure forever.
Planning a destination wedding in Brazil? I’d love to capture every beautiful moment of your special day. As an experienced destination wedding photographer, I specialize in telling your unique love story through creative and heartfelt photography. From the golden sands of Rio to the historical charm of Salvador, I’m here to make your wedding memories last a lifetime.
Check out my portfolio here and explore my wedding photography packages here. Ready to start planning? Feel free to reach out via my contact page. Let’s work together to create something truly magical for your wedding day!
