Applies to: Spanish civil marriage procedures; document and jurisdiction checks depend on the couple.
Before you start
- Passports and accepted identity documents.
- Birth and civil-status certificates requested for your nationalities.
- Address/residence evidence and any divorce or death documents.
- Required translations, authentication and witness details.
The steps
Confirm jurisdiction
Ask the competent Registro Civil or notary about the prior marriage file and which office can process it for your addresses.
Request the exact document list
The requirements can differ by nationality and previous marital status. Obtain written guidance before ordering records with limited validity.
Prepare the foreign records
Check apostille/legalisation and sworn-translation requirements. Keep the document and any authentication attached together.
Complete the prior file
Attend the required interviews or appointments and provide witnesses where instructed. The ceremony cannot replace the prior capacity assessment.
Arrange the ceremony and registration
After clearance, use an authorised celebrant and confirm the marriage is registered. Request the certificate needed for later administration.
Deal with residence separately
If the marriage changes a potential residence route, apply under that route. Marriage itself does not grant a permit or nationality.
Important details
What the national guidance says
Two foreign nationals can marry in Spain under the form prescribed for Spaniards or under an applicable personal-law form. The competent authority must confirm the route for your case.
Timing
Do not advertise a guaranteed wedding date or instant residency. Availability and document corrections can affect the sequence.
See the bigger picture
Pair these practical steps with the Spain-wide essentials.
Sources & next steps
Reviewed 30 September 2026. This independent guide provides general information. Requirements, fees and office arrangements can change; the responsible authority’s current instructions control your application. Commercial service links explain products, not official rules.