Can you marry outside your country?

Getting married abroad is a wonderful way to celebrate with family and friends in a place you love. Many couples choose this route, but the legal side works differently from a UK wedding. Each country sets its own rules about notice, documents, residency and who can officiate.

For the marriage to count back home, it must be legal where it happens. Most countries that are party to the relevant Hague Convention issue documents that the UK recognises. If the country is not part of that agreement, you may need extra steps to have the marriage recognised in the UK. Always check the current position on GOV.UK before you book anything.

Some practical things to sort out early:

• the documents you need, such as passports, birth certificates and proof of marital status
• any residency or notice period required before you can marry
• whether you need to translate documents or have them apostilled
• what proof you will receive and how to register the marriage back in the UK

If you are unsure about a religious ceremony, confirm with the place of worship and the local registrar that it will be legally binding.