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Getting married in Colombia is a beautiful experience — but you need to get the paperwork right first. Whether you are a Colombian citizen or a foreigner planning a destination wedding, here is everything you need to know about marriage requirements in Colombia.
Basic Requirements for Everyone
- Be at least 18 years old (minors need parental consent).
- Provide valid identification (cédula for Colombians, passport for foreigners).
- Present a certificate of marital status (single, divorced, or widowed).
- Have two witnesses present at the ceremony.
- Complete blood tests (required by Colombian law).
Required Documents for Colombians
- Original cédula de ciudadanía (national ID).
- Registro civil de nacimiento (birth certificate).
- Certificate of marital status from the notary.
- Proof of blood tests (grupo sanguíneo y Rh).
- If previously married: divorce decree or death certificate.
Required Documents for Foreigners
- Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity.
- Birth certificate — must be translated into Spanish by an official translator and apostilled.
- Certificate of marital status (single status affidavit) — apostilled and translated.
- If divorced: Divorce decree — apostilled and translated.
- If widowed: Death certificate of former spouse — apostilled and translated.
- Cédula de extranjería (foreigner ID) if living in Colombia.
The Apostille Process
Colombia is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. All foreign documents must have an apostille (a standardized international certification). This is done in your home country before traveling. Plan for 2-4 weeks for apostille processing.
Blood Tests and Medical Exams
Colombian law requires both parties to have blood tests (blood type and Rh factor) before marriage. These can be done at any Colombian medical lab and cost approximately $30-$60 USD per person. Results are valid for 30-60 days.
The Marriage Ceremony
Civil Marriage (Notary or Judge)
- Performed at a notary office or by a judge at a venue of your choice.
- The ceremony is brief (15-20 minutes) and includes signing the official marriage register.
- Two witnesses over 18 years old are required (they only need valid ID).
Religious Marriage (Catholic Church)
- Requires preparation courses (pre-marriage counseling) at the local parish.
- Must present baptismal and confirmation certificates.
- The parish handles the civil registration alongside the religious ceremony.
- Plan for 3-6 months of preparation before the wedding date.
Timeline: How Long Does It Take?
- Document collection: 2-8 weeks (depending on apostille processing).
- Blood tests: 1-2 days (results ready in 24-48 hours).
- Notary appointment: 1-2 days (can be scheduled online in most cities).
- Marriage certificate: Delivered immediately after ceremony (official copies available within 1 week).
Planning a destination wedding in Colombia? Wink Eventos guides you through every step — from paperwork to the perfect celebration.
