Getting Married in Mexico: What You Need to Know Before You Say "I Do"
Thinking about saying "I do" in paradise? You’re not alone. Mexico is one of the top destinations for couples dreaming of a beautiful, stress-free wedding filled with sunshine, love, and unforgettable memories. From turquoise beaches and historic chapels to ancient rituals and vibrant culture—Mexico truly has something for every kind of love story.
As a Destination Wedding & Romance Travel Specialist, I help couples navigate all the options (and trust me, there are a lot!) so they can focus on what really matters—celebrating their love.
Before you pack your bags and send out the Save the Dates, here’s everything you need to know about getting married in Mexico—plus some insider tips you might not find on Google.
💍 Types of Wedding Ceremonies in Mexico
One of the best things about a destination wedding in Mexico is the variety. Whether you're looking for a simple beach ceremony or something rich in cultural tradition, you have beautiful options. Let’s walk through the most popular ones:
Symbolic Ceremonies
Most Popular – No Legal Paperwork Required
A symbolic ceremony is perfect for couples who want all the romance without the legal hassle. It’s not legally binding, but it’s emotionally meaningful—and fully customizable.
You can get married barefoot on the beach, in a lush garden, or even under a floral arch overlooking the ocean. Most couples choose to get legally married at home and then celebrate their symbolic ceremony in Mexico.
Requirements:
No legal paperwork needed
Arrive 2+ business days before the ceremony
Ceremony can be performed by anyone you choose—officiant, friend, or family
Average Cost:
Often included in resort wedding packages
For custom setups, expect $500–$900
Legal (Civil) Weddings
Official & Legally Recognized
If you want your marriage to be official and recognized internationally, you’ll need a civil ceremony. These are performed by a judge (not a priest or minister) and must meet specific legal requirements.
Requirements:
Valid passports
Birth certificates (translated and apostilled)
Blood tests in Mexico
4 witnesses with ID
Arrive 3–4 business days early
All documents translated into Spanish
Average Cost:
$1,000–$1,600, including legal fees, translations, and blood tests
Some resorts offer full legal ceremony packages to make it easier
📝 Note: You’ll still need to register your marriage with your local authorities when you return home to make it valid internationally.
🇲🇽 In Mexico, a legal (civil) wedding cannot be performed by a priest or minister.
Here’s why:
Civil Weddings Are Government-Run in Mexico
In Mexico, only a government-appointed judge or civil registry officer (known as a “registro civil”) has the legal authority to marry couples in a way that is officially recognized by the Mexican government.
Even if you have a religious or spiritual leader officiate your ceremony, it won’t be legally binding unless you also complete the civil marriage process with a judge.
What About Religious Ceremonies?
Priests, ministers, rabbis, or spiritual leaders can absolutely officiate your symbolic or religious wedding.
These types of ceremonies are not legally recognized unless a separate civil marriage has already taken place (either before, after, or alongside the religious ceremony).
The Bottom Line:
If you want your marriage to be legally recognized in Mexico (and in your home country), you’ll need to:
Have a civil ceremony performed by a judge (either at the resort or a local registry office).
Optionally add a religious or symbolic ceremony led by a priest, minister, or family member for the personal/spiritual aspect.
🏳️🌈 Is Gay Marriage Legal in Mexico?
Yes! Same-sex marriage is legal throughout Mexico.
As of 2022, all 32 Mexican states have legalized same-sex marriage, making Mexico one of the most LGBTQ+ inclusive wedding destinations in Latin America. Whether you're planning a legal civil ceremony or a symbolic celebration, you can absolutely get married here as a gay couple.
Can LGBTQ+ Couples Have a Legal Ceremony in Mexico?
Yes. Just like heterosexual couples, same-sex couples can have a civil (legal) wedding in Mexico that is recognized both locally and internationally—as long as you follow the standard requirements, listed above under legal/civil ceremonies.
💡 Note: Some local offices might be slower with paperwork or less experienced with LGBTQ+ marriages, but working with an experienced planner (like me!) ensures couples avoid any issues.
Symbolic & Spiritual Ceremonies for LGBTQ+ Couples
Many LGBTQ+ couples opt for symbolic ceremonies in Mexico, especially when they’ve already been legally married at home. These ceremonies are beautiful, meaningful, and 100% personalized—and they allow couples to celebrate in the location of their dreams without worrying about legal logistics.
You can also have:
Mayan or spiritual ceremonies
Religious blessings (with LGBTQ+-friendly officiants)
LGBTQ+ Friendly Resorts & Vendors
Mexico is home to many LGBTQ+-friendly resorts and wedding venues, particularly in popular wedding destinations like:
Puerto Vallarta
Cancun & Riviera Maya
Los Cabos
Mexico City
Many of these resorts work with staff and vendors trained by organizations like the Equality Institute to ensure inclusivity, comfort, and respect for LGBTQ+ couples and guests.
💬 Real Talk:
While the law is on your side, inclusivity can still vary depending on the location or vendor. That’s why it’s so important to work with a wedding planner who:
Has firsthand experience with LGBTQ+ weddings in Mexico
Partners with vetted, welcoming resorts and vendors
Advocates for your love story every step of the way
Catholic Weddings
For Couples Wanting a Traditional Church Ceremony
Mexico’s historic churches and chapels offer a stunning setting for Catholic weddings. These ceremonies must follow Catholic traditions and be held in a consecrated space—not on the beach.
Requirements:
Baptism, communion & confirmation certificates
Approval from your home parish
Completion of a Pre-Cana course
Permission from the Mexican diocese
Average Cost:
Priest & chapel rental: $1,000–$1,500+
Add-on travel or decor costs depending on location
📝 Catholic weddings must also include a legal civil ceremony to be legally recognized.
Mayan & Indigenous Ceremonies
Cultural & Spiritual Experiences Rooted in Mexican Tradition
Looking for a unique, sacred experience? Mayan or Indigenous ceremonies are led by spiritual guides or shamans and honor ancestral traditions. These are symbolic ceremonies filled with meaning, rituals, and natural elements like water, fire, and incense.
Perfect For:
Nature lovers
Spiritual or eco-conscious couples
Those wanting an authentic cultural touch
Requirements:
No legal paperwork
Choose a location like a cenote, jungle clearing, or sacred beach
Average Cost:
$900–$2,500, depending on location and inclusions (musicians, decor, ceremonial elements)
Multicultural & Fusion Weddings
Blending Traditions & Families
Planning to blend two cultures, religions, or family traditions? Mexico is incredibly welcoming to fusion and multicultural weddings—whether you’re combining Hindu and Christian elements, Jewish and Catholic traditions, or creating something totally your own.
Requirements:
Depends on traditions involved
Often structured as symbolic or paired with a civil ceremony
Average Cost:
$1,500–$10,000+ depending on the number of events, customs, and vendors
✨ A Few More Things to Keep in Mind
Arrival Time Matters: For legal and Catholic weddings, plan to arrive a few days early to allow for documentation and blood tests.
Weather: Mexico is gorgeous year-round, but hurricane season runs June–October. I’ll help you plan accordingly.
Language Barrier: I’ll connect you with English-speaking vendors and officiants so nothing gets lost in translation.
So, Which Ceremony is Right for You?
Every couple is different, and that’s the beauty of destination weddings—you can make it as relaxed, traditional, spiritual, or extravagant as you want.
If you’re not sure where to start, that’s where I come in. I help couples navigate all the options, find the perfect destination, handle the travel for you and your guests, and ensure your wedding is as smooth and joyful as the love you’re celebrating.
Ready to Start Planning?
Let’s turn your dream wedding in Mexico into a reality. Whether you’re picturing a barefoot beach ceremony, a traditional chapel, or something deeply spiritual—I’ll help you plan it all, stress-free.