Getting married before a notary in Spain has become an increasingly popular option for couples seeking a faster, less bureaucratic process. Since the implementation of Law 8/2021, which allows the marriage application file to be opened directly at the notary's office, many couples have chosen this route. Below, we explain everything you need to know about the process.

Notarial marriage not only simplifies the procedures, but also offers the option of personalising the ceremony. In this article, we cover the process, required documents, costs and benefits of getting married before a notary in Spain.

What is the process for getting married before a notary?

The process for getting married before a notary in Spain is simple and straightforward. First, the couple must go to a notary's office and request that the marriage application file be opened. The notary will verify that both parties meet the necessary legal requirements.

Once the application file has been opened, all the necessary documents will be collected. The notary will review the documents, which include the DNI, birth certificates and proof of marital status for both parties, among others.

The notary will then set a date for the ceremony. It can take place at the notary's office or at a venue chosen by the couple, offering greater flexibility. This is an excellent option for those looking for a more intimate, personalised celebration.

Finally, on the day of the ceremony, the notary will conduct the marriage ceremony. Afterwards, the notary will send all the documents to the Civil Registry to register the marriage.

What documents do I need to get married before a notary?

To get married before a notary in Spain, you must submit the documents required for a marriage before a notary. The following documents are generally required:

• DNI for both parties.
• Birth certificate for each person.
• Certificate of marital status or legal capacity to marry.
• Additional documents if either party is a foreign national.

It is important to remember that documents must be up to date and, in some cases, official translations may be required. The notary may also request additional information depending on each couple's circumstances.

Once all the documents have been correctly submitted, the notary will open the marriage application file. This step is essential to ensure there are no legal impediments to the marriage.

How much does it cost to get married before a notary in Spain?

The cost of getting married before a notary in Spain varies depending on several factors, such as the notary’s office you choose and any additional services requested. In general, prices can range from 300 to 600 euros.

This cost includes opening the marriage file, the notarial ceremony and the necessary documents. It is important to check the exact prices and any possible additional charges with the notary’s office in advance.

It is also advisable to ask about payment methods and whether any notary’s offices offer discounts or promotions, which could help reduce the overall costs.

What are the advantages of getting married before a notary?

There are several advantages to getting married before a notary in Madrid and elsewhere in Spain. Some of the most notable are:

• A faster process: Being able to open the marriage file directly with the notary speeds up the process.
• Flexibility: Couples can choose the location and format of the ceremony.
• Less bureaucracy: This avoids the cumbersome procedures at the Civil Registry.
• Legal certainty: A notary’s involvement ensures that all legal requirements are met.

Another significant advantage is the ability to personalise the ceremony. Couples can include elements that reflect their story and preferences, making the occasion truly unique and special.

Is it mandatory to open the marriage file with a notary?

Since Law 8/2021 came into force, it has not been mandatory to open the marriage file with a notary, although it is highly recommended. This is because doing so simplifies many of the required procedures that would otherwise be handled through the Civil Registry.

Choosing this option can save time and effort, as well as provide a more personalised experience. However, couples can still choose the traditional routes if they prefer.

Can I marry a foreign national before a notary?

Yes, it is possible to get married before a notary in Spain to a foreign national, although certain additional requirements must be met. In this case, the notary will request specific documents to verify the foreign national’s legal capacity to marry.

A certificate of civil status is generally required to show that the person is not married in their country of origin. It is advisable to have this document translated into Spanish and legalised.

The notary may also require additional information about the laws of the foreign national’s country of origin to ensure that the marriage complies with all applicable regulations.

Frequently asked questions about notarial marriage in Spain

How much does it cost to get married before a notary in Spain?

The cost of getting married before a notary in Spain can vary, but it generally ranges from 300 to 600 euros. This price includes the marriage file, the ceremony and the necessary documents. It is advisable to check exact prices and any possible additional charges with the notary’s office.

What is the legal status of a marriage before a notary?

Getting married before a notary in Spain has the same legal validity as a marriage celebrated at the Civil Registry. A notarial ceremony is equally binding and is recorded in the Civil Registry. This ensures that all legal requirements are met and that the marriage is fully valid.

How do you get married before a notary in Spain?

To get married before a notary in Spain, the couple must go to a notary’s office, submit the required documents and request that a marriage file be opened. Once the documents have been reviewed, the notary will set a date for the ceremony, which can take place at the notary’s office or at a location chosen by the couple.

How long does it take to get married before a notary?

The time it takes to get married before a notary in Spain can vary, but the process is generally faster than the traditional route. From submitting the documents to holding the ceremony, it usually takes between two and four weeks, depending on the notary’s availability and the complexity of the file.

This video provides a visual overview of what it involves to get married before a notary in Spain and may be a useful resource for couples considering this option. It explains the steps and advantages and answers common questions about the process.