Marriage in Colombia for Foreigners: Legal Guidelines and Requirements
Marriage is a significant legal and personal milestone for many couples, including those where one or both partners are foreign nationals. Colombia offers a straightforward legal framework for marriage, making it possible for foreigners to marry Colombian citizens or other foreign nationals within the country. However, the process requires compliance with specific legal requirements and documentation.
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At The Law Connection Group Colombia, we guide couples through the marriage process to ensure that all legal aspects are properly addressed.
Legal Requirements for Marriage in Colombia
To get married in Colombia, certain legal requirements must be met. The marriage can be either a civil or religious ceremony, but civil marriage is the only form that is legally recognized by the Colombian government. Religious marriages can be conducted but must be registered with a notary to have legal standing.
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Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Minors can marry with parental consent, but additional legal procedures are required.
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Consent: Both parties must give their free and informed consent to marry. Forced or coerced marriages are not legally valid in Colombia.
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Single Status: Both individuals must be legally single at the time of marriage. If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or death of the former spouse.
Documents Required for Foreigners to Marry in Colombia
Foreign nationals must provide specific documents to marry in Colombia. These documents must be translated into Spanish and notarized if issued in a foreign language. The required documents include:
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Valid Passport: A copy of the passport with entry stamps showing the individual's legal status in Colombia.
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Birth Certificate: An original or certified copy of the birth certificate, translated into Spanish and apostilled.
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Single Status Affidavit: A document stating that the foreign national is legally single and free to marry, also known as a Certificate of No Impediment.
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Proof of Divorce or Widowhood: If applicable, legal documents proving the termination of any previous marriage.
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Visa or Entry Permit: Proof of legal entry and status in Colombia.
Marriage Registration Process
The process of registering a marriage in Colombia involves several steps:
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Visit a Notary
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Couples must visit a local notary to initiate the marriage process. The notary will verify all documents and ensure that both parties meet the legal requirements.
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Document Verification
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The notary will review and authenticate all documents submitted by the couple. It is essential to ensure that all documents are accurate, properly translated, and notarized.
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Publication of Marriage Intent
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The notary may publish a notice of the couple's intention to marry. This is typically a formal announcement made to verify that there are no legal impediments to the marriage.
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Marriage Ceremony
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Once the documents are verified, the marriage ceremony can take place. The couple may choose to have a civil ceremony at the notary's office or opt for a religious ceremony, which must then be registered with the notary.
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Issuance of Marriage Certificate
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After the ceremony, the notary will issue a marriage certificate, which serves as the official legal record of the marriage.
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Legal Benefits of Marriage in Colombia
Marriage in Colombia provides several legal benefits, including:
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Spousal Visa: Foreign spouses of Colombian citizens can apply for a spousal visa, allowing them to live and work in Colombia.
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Property Rights: Marriage affects property rights in Colombia, particularly concerning jointly acquired assets.
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Inheritance Rights: Spouses have legal inheritance rights under Colombian law.
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Health and Social Security Benefits: Married couples may be eligible for shared health insurance and social security benefits.
Prenuptial Agreements
Couples planning to marry in Colombia may consider signing a prenuptial agreement to outline the distribution of assets and financial responsibilities. Prenuptial agreements are legally recognized in Colombia and can help protect individual assets in the event of divorce or separation.​
Common Law Marriage in Colombia
In addition to formal marriage, Colombia recognizes common law marriage, known as "unión marital de hecho." Couples who have lived together for more than two years can apply for legal recognition of their relationship, which grants them similar rights and obligations as a married couple.​
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can two foreigners get married in Colombia? Yes, two foreign nationals can marry in Colombia, provided they meet the legal requirements and submit the necessary documentation.
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2. Do I need to be a resident to get married in Colombia? No, you do not need to be a resident. However, you must have legal entry and status in Colombia at the time of marriage.
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3. How long does the marriage process take? The timeline varies depending on the notary and the completeness of the documents. Generally, it can take several weeks to complete the process.
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4. Is a Colombian marriage recognized internationally? Yes, a marriage conducted in Colombia is recognized internationally, provided it is registered with a notary and meets the legal requirements of the country where the couple resides.
Why Choose The Law Connection Group Colombia for Marriage Legal Services?
At The Law Connection Group Colombia, we provide personalized legal assistance for individuals navigating the marriage process in Colombia. Our services include:
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Document Preparation: Ensuring all required documents are accurate and properly notarized.
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Legal Guidance: Providing step-by-step guidance throughout the marriage process.
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Immigration Assistance: Helping foreign spouses apply for visas and residency permits.
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Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with your marriage in Colombia and ensure a smooth legal process.