For a myriad of reasons, engaged Canadians look to places outside of the Great White North to tie the knot. Whether couples seek the sunny shores of an island getaway or the opportunity to temporarily immerse themselves in another land, destination weddings are a popular choice for many. Some take advantage of a remote spot to combine both the marriage ceremony and the honeymoon. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, you’ll need to know a few things about getting hitched in another country.
First Things First
Canada recognizes legal marriages in other countries as valid. After getting married in another country, neither you nor your spouse need to register your union. You’ll need to be familiar with the regulations of the foreign country, as marrying abroad may automatically make you citizens of that country. While your Canadian citizenship won’t be impacted by this, the foreign country may not recognize you as a Canadian. This would make you ineligible from receiving services from Canadian consular offices. Before you make that trip, find out where the nearest Canadian government office is and contact it for information.
Paperwork Matters
An embassy or a consulate of the nation where you’ll marry should be able to provide details for marriage requirements. Please note that these offices do not perform ceremonies or other related services. Different nations and jurisdictions vary when it comes to the required documentation, but you may be expected to furnish the following:
- Valid Canadian passport
- Birth certificate
- Divorce or death certificate to prove that you’re legally divorced or widowed
- Statement of parental consent for very young participants
- Premarital blood test certificate
You may need to provide an affidavit to prove that you are single. Some nations may require you to pre-register before exchanging vows. You may also need to provide a certificate of non-impediment to marriage or a qualifying statement. Depending on the location, you’ll also need to investigate having documents translated in another language and authenticated by Canada.
Concerns for Marrying a Foreign Partner
You may be traveling abroad to meet and marry a person you’ve been dating online for some time. While love can bloom between two consenting adults anywhere in the world, be aware of the potential of someone marrying you just for citizenship reasons. Someone may be using you or your connection to commit fraud in another territory or back home. If you have concerns, an attorney who specializes in matrimonial law can provide counsel.
Foreign Laws Abroad
Besides impacting your citizenship status, marrying abroad may expose you to foreign laws that could prohibit you from returning. For example, in some countries, a husband can restrict the travel of a wife and children. He may also have full authority when it comes to use of legal documents. It cannot be stated enough that you need to carefully research requirements before putting a ring on it in another country. If you’ll be marrying at a particular venue such as a resort or within a house of worship, these institutions should be able to help.
LGBTQ+ Considerations Abroad
While same-sex unions are legal and recognized in Canada, this is not the case in other parts of the world. Some countries make a distinction between civil unions and marriages in this regard. Embassies, consulate offices and online websites can provide answers to your questions about marrying someone of the same gender. Look up countries that recognize same-sex unions and focus on venues that are LGBTQ-friendly.
Our planet is home to many beautiful places to commit yourself to another in matrimony. Even the simplest of ceremonies requires forethought, and this is especially true for nuptials outside Canada’s borders. It’s important to do your research, have the required paperwork and be aware of the implications that come with saying “I do” abroad.
