Costa Rica is a popular destination for couples who want to elope, but if you want your marriage to be legally recognized, there are specific steps to follow. Understanding the country’s marriage law, required document, and the process of registering your marriage in the U.S. is essential. This guide on how to elope outlines what you need to legally marry in Costa Rica, how to find a certified officiant, and the steps to ensure your marriage is valid back home. If you prefer to skip the legal process in Costa Rica, you can have a symbolic ceremony, and legalize your marriage in the U.S.A. before or after your trip.

First things first: Do you need to be a resident or citizen of Costa Rica to legally elope there? Nope! Let’s dive in!

Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Costa Rica

Foreigners can legally marry in Costa Rica without residency, but specific documents are required. Both partners need valid passports, and in some cases, birth certificates. A sworn affidavit stating both individuals are single is required and typically prepared by a Costa Rican attorney. If either person has been previously married, a divorce decree or death certificate is necessary.

A licensed Costa Rican attorney must officiate and file the marriage paperwork for the Civil Registry. After processing, the registry issues a marriage certificate, which must be notarized and translated for recognition in the U.S. This process typically takes 8 – 12 weeks.

Choosing a Legal Officiant in Costa Rica

A legal marriage in Costa Rica must be officiated by a licensed attorney, and the attorney is responsible for conducting the ceremony, preparing and submitting the legal paperwork, and registering the marriage with the Civil Registry.

To find a reliable officiant, consider working with a local wedding planner or an elopement planner that has experience in Costa Rica. You can also ask for recommendations from other couples who have chosen to get married in Costa Rica, or research attorneys that specialize and are licensed in Costa Rica. Many attorneys offer bilingual services and can guide you through the legal process.

Before hiring an officiant, confirm their experience with foreign marriages and ensure they will provide a certified marriage certificate for U.S. recognition.

Pro tip: Make sure that when you inquire with a Costa Rica officiant, you provide all of the specific details of your planned elopement, including your specific date to exchange vows, the amount of time they will need to be present, and the specific service(s) you are inquiring about so that the officiant can provide you an adequate quote for their services.

2 suggested licensed attorneys that work as legal officiants in Costa Rica:

1 – Marcelo Galli

2 – Notel Ibo

How to Register your Costa Rican Marriage in the U.S.

After the ceremony, your officiant will submit the marriage documents to the Costa Rican Civil Registry. Processing takes about 8 – 12 weeks, after which you’ll receive an official marriage certificate.

To have your marriage recognized in the U.S., the certificate must be certified in Costa Rica and translated in to English. The certification confirms the document’s authenticity for international use. Once you receive the certified and translated certificate, check your state’s requirements for registering foreign marriages. Some states require submission to a county clerk’s office, while others recognize the marriage without additional steps.

How to Elope Symbolically

A symbolic elopement is a non-legally binding ceremony that allows couples to have a private or traditional wedding experience without completing legal paperwork in Costa Rica. This option is common for those who want to avoid the extra steps required for international marriage recognition.

To make the marriage legal in the U.S., couples can either complete the legal process at a courthouse before traveling or finalize the legal paperwork upon returning after their elopement. This approach is usually the preferred route as it simplifies the process and will save you money.

Some FAQs About How to Elope Legally in Costa Rica

1. How much does a legal Costa Rican officiant cost?

There are a lot of factors that will determine the exact cost, but it can be between $500 – $1200. Some factors that affect the cost are the officiant’s experience, location of the ceremony, and specific, optional services elected that the officiant provides.

2. Do we need witnesses to make our elopement legal in Costa Rica?

Yes, Costa Rica requires 2 witnesses be present in order for your marriage to be legal. Good news is your photographer can be one of the witnesses! And if your photographer has an assistant, the assistant can be your second. Or, you can ask close friends or family to be your witnesses. Some officiants will also give the option to bring their own witnesses at an additional cost.

3. How do we find a legally certified officiant for our Costa Rica wedding?

If you’re planning and coordinating your elopement wedding on your own, Google is the first place to look. Type in ‘legal Costa Rica wedding officiant’ and go through your options. If you’ve hired a planner and/or coordinator, ask your planner or coordinator for recommendations, or ask if they’ve worked with anyone in particular that he/she/they prefer.

Legally eloping in Costa Rica requires specific documents, a licensed attorney as an officiant, and registration with the Civil Registry. The process takes several weeks, and additional steps are needed to have the marriage recognized in the U.S. Couples who want to avoid international paperwork can opt for a symbolic ceremony and handle the legal process at home.

Understanding these options helps ensure a smooth experience. Whether choosing a legal or symbolic elopement, planning ahead is key. Working with experienced professionals can simplify the process and provide guidance on legal requirements.

Find These Tips on How to Elope in Costa Rica Helpful?

If you’re dreaming of an intimate, stress-free elopement in Costa Rica, look no further! As a photographer who specializes in capturing love stories in this breathtaking destination, I know how important it is to make sure your marriage is legally recognized. From stunning beaches to lush rainforests, Costa Rica offers the perfect backdrop for your vows. For the full rundown of my Costa Rica elopement experience, head over to this guide and start planning your unforgettable day! Until then, find all my top resources and tips for a seamless, adventurous Costa Rica elopement on the journal!

Photography by Sara Anne | How to Elope in Costa Rica

Featured Costa Rica Elopement Details

Couple: Kate Bystrova and Karlos Orozco

Venue: Radhoo Tulum

Makeup: Makeup by Jac Foo

Florals: Narcissus & Echo

Bride’s dress: OUMA Bridal