Getting Married in Ecuador: Essential Documents for U.S. Citizens

Embarking on a wedding abroad can be a thrilling experience, yet it necessitates meticulous planning, particularly regarding required documentation. For U.S. citizens planning to marry in Ecuador, the following essential documents are necessary to facilitate a seamless process:

U.S. Birth Certificate Apostille

The birth certificate is a crucial document for marriage in Ecuador. It must be:

– Apostilled. This serves as a form of authentication for documents intended for use in countries that are part of the Hague Convention of 1961.

– Translated: The birth certificate needs to be translated into Spanish by a certified translator.

Certificate of Non-Impediment (Single Status Certificate)

This certificate verifies that you are legally eligible to marry. It can be obtained from the Vital Records, City Clerk’s  or County Clerk’s office in your home state. Similar to the birth certificate, it must be:

– Apostilled to confirm its authenticity.

– Translated into Spanish by a certified translator.

U.S. Passport

Your passport acts as your primary form of identification. Ensure that it is:

– Valid: Verify the expiration date and renew if necessary.

– Photocopied: Make multiple copies of the identification page for submission.

Judgment of Divorce (if applicable)

If you have been previously married, you must provide evidence of the dissolution of your prior marriage. This includes:

– Divorce Decree: The official document of divorce.

– Judgement of Divorce Apostille: To validate its authenticity.

– Translated into Spanish by a professional certified translation agency

Additional documents required for marriage in Ecuador

– Death Certificate: If you are a widow or widower, you must present the death certificate of your late spouse, which should also be apostilled and translated into Spanish.

– Migratory Record: An updated migratory record obtained in Ecuador.

– Legal Stay: Proof of your legal status in Ecuador, such as a tourist visa, extension of a tourist visa, temporary residency visa, or permanent residency visa.

Marriage Process and Fees

– Ecuador Civil Registry Office.  Marriages in Ecuador are typically conducted at the Civil Registry offices in major cities like Quito, Guayaquil, or Cuenca.

– Fees. Government fees for marriage registration vary. For example, it costs $50 at the Civil Registry office, but if you choose a different location, the fee is $250.

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, ensure they are apostilled and translated from English into Spanish. It’s advisable to contact the Ecuadorian Civil Registry or consult with a legal expert to confirm that you have everything in order.

By preparing these documents in advance, you can focus on enjoying your special day without any last-minute hassles. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding, and best wishes for a beautiful future together!

If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!