Imagine saying « I do » surrounded by olive trees, golden stone walls, and the scent of lavender in the air… Getting married in France is a dream for many couples around the world and yes, it’s possible, even if you’re not French. While there are specific legal steps to follow, your celebration in the South of France can truly become the unforgettable experience you’ve always imagined.
Whether you’re dreaming of a civil ceremony or a symbolic one, there are many ways to get married in France that reflect your story and values.
How Civil Marriage in France for Foreigners Really Works
In France, civil marriage is the only legally recognized form of marriage. It must take place before any religious or symbolic ceremony and is a mandatory step for all couples who wish to be legally married.
Here’s what you need to know:
- The ceremony takes place at the local town hall ( «la mairie »).
- Both partners, along with their witnesses, will sign the marriage register.
- The ceremony is conducted in French by the mayor or a local official. If needed, a translator can be arranged to assist during the ceremony.
How to get married in France as a foreigner : The Legal Basics
In France, the legal requirements for marriage apply equally to both French citizens and foreign nationals. To get legally married, both partners must be at least 18 years old and legally single, as polygamy is strictly prohibited. The marriage must be based on mutual and free consent ( any form of pressure or coercion would render the union invalid ). Additionally, French law prohibits marriage between immediate family members, including siblings and direct ancestors or descendants.
Residency Requirement
You don’t need to be French or live in France permanently to get married here.
However, at least one of the partners must have lived in the municipality where the marriage will take place for at least 40 consecutive days before the wedding. Proof of this residency will be required when submitting your application.
This is one of the main legal conditions if you wish to get married in France as a foreigner.
What Paperwork to Prepare ?
To complete your civil marriage application, you’ll need to gather the following documents:
- A valid passport or national ID card
- A birth certificate, issued within the last 3 months (or translated into French)
- Proof of residency in the chosen municipality (or a sworn affidavit of residence)
- If applicable, a certificate of celibacy or certificate of capacity to marry (issued by your consulate or embassy)
- A certificate of custom (confirms you’re legally allowed to marry and that the marriage will be recognized in your home country)
- If previously married: a divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse to prove you are free to remarry
Pre-marriage Interview
Before the wedding, the couple will meet with the civil registrar for a pre-marriage interview, usually conducted together. However, if needed, the registrar may decide to speak to each partner separately. This interview helps confirm that both individuals are entering into the marriage willingly and without any external pressure.
If there are any doubts about the sincerity of the union( such as concerns about consent or the possibility of a sham marriage) the mayor’s office has the right to refer the case to the public prosecutor, who may temporarily suspend or block the ceremony.
Publication of Banns
In accordance with French law, a public announcement of the upcoming marriage ( called the « publication des bans » ) must be made before the wedding. A notice is displayed at the town hall where the marriage will take place for a minimum of 10 days, allowing anyone to raise a legal objection if necessary.
Witnesses
At least two witnesses are required to attend the civil ceremony, and you may have up to four if you wish. Witnesses must be adults but can be of any nationality, making it easy to involve close friends or family members from abroad.
After the Ceremony
Once married, the couple will receive a « livret de famille », an official family record book provided by the French government. You can also request a marriage certificate, which may be needed for legal procedures in your home country.
Getting married in France as a foreigner is absolutely possible, but it does require some planning and paperwork.
From meeting the residency requirement to preparing the necessary documents, attending the pre-marriage interview, and respecting the publication of banns, each step plays a crucial role in making your union official.
With a clear understanding of the process and the right support, your dream of a romantic French wedding can become a reality, legally and beautifully.
Getting Legally Married in France as an LGBTQ+ Couple
France fully recognizes same-sex marriages, and the legal process is exactly the same for LGBTQ+ couples as for heterosexual couples. However, if one of the partners comes from a country where same-sex marriage is not legally recognized, it’s strongly recommended to consult your consulate. Additional paperwork or steps may be required to ensure the marriage is recognized in your home country. Regardless of your nationality or orientation, you can get married in France and celebrate your love openly and legally.
How quickly can get married in France ?
Once your documents are approved and the administrative steps are complete, the timeline can move quite fast.
However, availability may vary depending on the location and season. For example, in popular destinations or during the summer months, securing a preferred date at the town hall may require advance planning. It’s always best to check early with the local mairie to avoid surprises !
While the general legal process is the same for all foreign nationals, some countries may require additional documents or formalities. It’s always best to consult your local authorities before planning your wedding in France.
- Australians: For detailed guidance, visit the Australian Embassy in France.
- British citizens: Specific requirements for UK nationals are available on the UK government’s website.
- US citizens: The US State Department website provides comprehensive information on marrying abroad, including in France.
Types of marriage in France ?
To get married in France, only the civil ceremony performed at the town hall is legally recognized. However, many foreign couples choose to complement this legal step ( or even skip it entirely in France by marrying civilly at home ) with a symbolic or religious ceremony.
These options offer greater flexibility and creative freedom, making them ideal for destination weddings. Whether it’s a deeply personal secular ceremony or a meaningful religious one, they allow you to fully express your story and celebrate your union in a way that reflects your values and traditions.
Can You Get Married in a Church or Religious Venue in France?
If you wish to have a religious ceremony, it must take place after your civil marriage, whether that civil ceremony occurs in France or in your home country.
You’re generally free to choose the religious venue that suits you, whether it’s a church, synagogue, mosque, or temple. Once you’ve selected the place of worship, you’ll need to contact the officiant to discuss availability and the steps required.
Depending on the religion, the preparation process may include:
- Premarital counseling or guidance
- A conversation about the religious meaning of marriage
- Ceremony planning and personal involvement (music, readings, traditions)
Each religion has its own conditions. For example, the Catholic Church requires both partners to be baptized and confirmed, and disallows remarriage unless a previous union has been annulled. Other faiths may ask for proof of identity, freedom to marry, or documents from your civil marriage.
In all cases, the religious officiant will inform you of the specific requirements and documents needed to proceed.
What about the secular ceremony ?
A symbolic ceremony, or secular ceremony offers you the freedom to celebrate your love exactly as you imagine it , without any legal or religious constraints. It’s a deeply personal experience, crafted entirely to reflect your story, your values, and your emotions.
From the words spoken to the music played, from the rituals you choose to the person who will guide the ceremony, everything is tailor-made. No rules, no required documents, just the opportunity to create a celebration that feels truly yours, sincere and unforgettable.
In provence, we have the privilege of working with native English-speaking celebrants, ensuring your ceremony feels natural, heartfelt, and perfectly in tune with your expectations.
French Wedding Traditions
Even if you bring your own traditions to France, adding a few French touches to your wedding can give your day an extra layer of charm and authenticity. While modern French weddings often blend personal style with global influences, certain customs still hold a special place.
The « Pièce Montée » a traditional tower of profiteroles, remains a favorite dessert centerpiece, though it now shares the spotlight with more modern wedding cakes.
Some couples still enjoy a car procession through the village or city, honking in celebration, while others opt for a more intimate arrival.
Today’s weddings are less about strict traditions and more about choosing the moments that feel meaningful but including a few local customs is a beautiful way to honor the setting and create an experience your guests will never forget.
Our Advice: Make It Legal at Home, Celebrate in France
While it is entirely possible to get legally married in France, many foreign couples choose to handle the civil ceremony in their home country beforehand. This simplifies the process by avoiding the more complex residency and administrative requirements.
Once officially married, they can fully enjoy a symbolic ceremony in France tailored to their story, surrounded by loved ones, and set against the stunning backdrop of the French countryside or a romantic château.
It’s the perfect way to combine legal ease with a truly unforgettable celebration.
Getting Married in South France: Plan with Confidence, Celebrate with Joy
At Anéia Events, we help couples create more than just a beautiful wedding : we craft a true experience.
Whether you need full planning or day-of coordination, I’ll be your local expert, guiding you every step of the way. From selecting the perfect venue to navigating local procedures and paperwork, we’re here to support you with care and clarity.Together, we’ll turn your wedding into a heartfelt and unforgettable journey.
Get in touch and let’s start planning your dream celebration in Provence.
Hey, I’m Lisa
Your wedding planner in Provence
With over 8 years of experience in event planning across Provence, I bring local knowledge and a trusted network of suppliers to every couple I’m working with. My attention to detail and personalized approach ensure your wedding is not only unique and elegant but also stress-free.
I am dedicated to making your special day unforgettable, staying true to your values and dreams. Wedding planning should be a joyful experience, and I’m proud of guiding you through each step with peace of mind and a smile.
Discover how I can bring your vision to life.
Let’s plan your wedding in Provence
The wedding of your dreams awaits you in Provence, where breathtaking scenery and timeless charm set the stage for unforgettable moments. Together, let’s design an experience that celebrates your unique love story. From lavender fields to sun-drenched vineyards, every corner of Provence invites romance and authenticity, the perfect setting for a celebration as special as you are.
Ready to make your Provence wedding a reality? Contact us today and let’s start planning the day you’ve always dreamed of.