When planning a dream destination wedding, it’s important to understand the practical steps needed to make your union official. If you’re considering saying “I do” in the Dominican Republic, knowing the legal requirements to get married in Punta Cana will ensure a smooth and stress-free process.
While getting married abroad may seem complicated, Punta Cana offers one of the most straightforward and welcoming legal wedding processes in the Caribbean — making it a top choice for couples around the world.
Legal Wedding vs Symbolic Wedding: What’s the Difference?
Before diving into the paperwork, it’s crucial to decide whether you want a legal wedding or a symbolic wedding.
- Legal Wedding: Your marriage is legally recognized both in the Dominican Republic and your home country. You must submit official documents, complete certain requirements, and the ceremony will be conducted by a civil judge.
- Symbolic Wedding: Your marriage is celebrated in a beautiful ceremony but is not legally binding. Couples often get legally married at home before or after their destination wedding to simplify the process.
Most resorts offer both options, so it depends on your personal preference and how much paperwork you’re willing to handle.
What Are the Legal Requirements to Get Married in Punta Cana?
If you decide on a legal wedding, here’s what you’ll typically need:
1. Valid Passports
Both parties must present valid passports. Photocopies are usually required for the wedding application.
2. Original Birth Certificates
You will need to submit original or certified copies of your birth certificates, which must be translated into Spanish and legalized (Apostille).
3. Single Status Affidavit
Each person must provide a notarized and Apostilled sworn statement (affidavit) declaring they are legally single.
4. Divorce Decree or Death Certificate (if applicable)
If either party has been previously married, you must present a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse, translated into Spanish and Apostilled.
5. Copies of Witnesses’ Passports
You must provide passport copies of two witnesses. Witnesses cannot be immediate family members, and they must be over 18 years old. Some resorts can provide witnesses if needed.
6. Completed Marriage Application Form
Most resorts or your wedding coordinator will provide the official marriage application form to fill out prior to your arrival.
The Legalization and Translation Process
One of the most critical steps is having your documents Apostilled and translated into Spanish by an official translator.
- Apostille: This is an international certification that verifies your documents for use in another country. You must obtain it from the designated government office in your home country.
- Translation: After receiving the Apostille, documents must be translated into Spanish by an official, court-certified translator.
Many Punta Cana resorts offer assistance with translation services, but it’s important to start this process early — at least 2-3 months before your wedding date.
Timeframe: When Should You Submit Documents?
- It’s recommended to send all required documents to your wedding coordinator at least 6-8 weeks before your wedding day.
- Some resorts may require earlier submission depending on their policies and the size of your wedding event.
Civil Ceremony Requirements in Punta Cana
Civil weddings must be performed by a Dominican judge or civil official. They are conducted in Spanish, but most resorts provide a translator during the ceremony if needed.
The typical civil ceremony includes:
- Introduction and welcome
- Reading of the marriage laws
- Exchange of vows and rings
- Declaration of marriage
- Signing of the marriage certificate
After your ceremony, your marriage certificate will be registered with the Civil Registry Office. You will receive an official marriage certificate (in Spanish), which can later be translated and legalized for use in your home country if necessary.
What Happens After the Wedding?
Once you’re legally married in Punta Cana:
- You will receive your initial Dominican marriage certificate.
- Some couples need to apostille their marriage certificate once they return home to validate it for legal use.
- Certain countries (like the U.S. and Canada) accept Dominican marriage certificates without further steps, while others may require additional legalization.
Your wedding coordinator will help guide you through the process depending on your country of residence.
Symbolic Ceremonies: A Simpler Option
Because of the paperwork involved, many couples choose to have a symbolic wedding ceremony in Punta Cana instead.
Advantages of a symbolic wedding:
- No legal documentation needed.
- No translation or Apostille required.
- Greater flexibility for ceremony structure and personalization.
- Lower fees and fewer restrictions.
Couples often legally marry at a local courthouse at home either before or after traveling, keeping the focus on celebration rather than legal logistics once they arrive in Punta Cana.
Typical Costs for Legalizing a Wedding in Punta Cana
Here’s an overview of potential extra costs for a legal marriage:
- Civil Judge Fee: $400 – $600 USD
- Document Translation: $150 – $300 USD
- Apostille Services: $50 – $100 USD per document
- Express Shipping of Certificates: $50 – $100 USD
Always confirm with your wedding coordinator and vendors for the latest fees.
Why Working with an Experienced Team Matters
Handling legalities in a foreign country can feel daunting, which is why it’s so important to work with a team that understands the process inside and out. Most reputable Punta Cana resorts have experienced wedding coordinators who handle the documentation process daily.
Similarly, having seasoned photographers and videographers, such as Coresfilms, ensures that every moment of your wedding — whether legal or symbolic — is captured with the professionalism and beauty your special day deserves.
Final Tips for a Smooth Legal Wedding in Punta Cana
- Start early: Give yourself at least 3–6 months to gather and process documents.
- Communicate often: Stay in close contact with your wedding coordinator to meet deadlines.
- Confirm all translations and apostilles: Make sure all documents are properly prepared before sending them.
- Consider symbolic if overwhelmed: A symbolic ceremony is equally meaningful and far simpler to arrange.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the legal requirements to get married in Punta Cana is a crucial part of your destination wedding planning. With the right guidance and early preparation, the process can be smooth and stress-free — allowing you to focus on celebrating your love in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.
Whether you choose a legal or symbolic ceremony, Punta Cana promises a romantic, unforgettable experience that you’ll treasure forever.