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At first glance, we may not notice many differences between these civil and religious marriage, but there are a series of distinctions between these two types of marriages—differences that can be decisive when choosing which type of wedding or marriage to carry out and which one you’ll actually be able to hold.
Among the factors that come into play when deciding what type of wedding you and your partner will opt for are: religious beliefs, personal preferences, and the marital status of both individuals.
Today, we want to explain the difference between these two types of marriages, and if you’re looking for information on the topic, you’ve come to the right place.
What is a civil and religious marriage?
Civil Marriage
The concept of civil marriage refers to the union or bond between two people through a contract, by which both parties acquire rights and obligations. This type of marriage can be legally dissolved through mutual agreement, known as divorce.
To carry out a civil marriage, you and your partner (if both are single) must meet certain requirements, which are outlined below:
- You and your partner must complete the civil marriage application, authenticated before a notary.
- A copy of your identity documents.
- Civil registry records, issued no more than 30 days prior.
- Both must be over eighteen years old to freely enter into marriage.
- You must be accompanied on your wedding day by two witnesses.
- A power of attorney, in case one of the parties cannot be present.
It is important to note that this type of marriage can be formalized at any location and can even be conducted in the form of a symbolic wedding.
Religious marriage
Unlike civil marriage, religious marriage encompasses various types of unions, including Jewish, Catholic, and Christian marriages.
Among the types of religious marriages mentioned above, Catholic marriage, in particular, must be conducted in a Catholic church or parish, following religious precepts. The other types of religious marriages may be officiated and/or celebrated outside a temple.
On the other hand, and in comparison to civil marriage, religious weddings are entirely tied to religious precepts and beliefs. For this reason, and unlike civil marriage, divorce does not exist in religious marriage.
The requirements to carry out a Catholic marriage are:
- Baptismal certificate for marriage, issued no more than three months prior.
- Birth certificate.
- If either party is under eighteen years old, they must present parental permission.
- Confirmation certificate.
- Proof of preparation to receive the sacrament.
- Original and copy of the identification documents of both parties.
The requirements to carry out a Jewish marriage are:
- Present the parents’ marriage certificate.
- The groom must provide proof of having completed the Bar Mitzvah.
The requirements to carry out a Muslim marriage are:
- Birth certificate.
- Two witnesses.
- Permission or participation of the father or a guardian (for the bride).
It is important to highlight that Islam allows divorce.
The requirements to carry out a Christian marriage are:
- Pre-marital course.
- Civil marriage previously conducted.
We hope you make the best decision regarding the type of marriage you wish to celebrate, and most importantly, that you enjoy this very special day in your life.
