Getting married before a notary in Spain has become a popular option for foreign couples who want to formalize their union quickly. The process not only allows couples to get an appointment quickly, but also gives them the option of choosing the ceremony venue, making it easier to fulfill their wishes.

It is essential to know the requirements and the necessary documents. In this article, we take an in-depth look at the process of marriage before a notary for foreign nationals in Spain and answer the most frequently asked questions about it.

What does getting married before a notary in Spain involve for foreign nationals?

Getting married before a notary allows foreign couples to formalize their union without going through the Civil Registry. The procedure takes place before a notary, who is legally authorized to perform marriages.

The notary prepares the marriage certificate, an official document certifying the union. This process is much simpler and quicker than a traditional marriage, which appeals to many couples looking to avoid bureaucracy.

In addition, getting married before a notary can be particularly advantageous for those who have difficulty obtaining the documents required by the Civil Registry. This includes couples where one partner is a foreign national.

What are the requirements for getting married before a notary in Spain?

To enter into a marriage before a notary for foreign nationals in Spain, certain requirements must be met, including:

• Both parties must have the legal capacity to marry.
• Neither party may currently be married.
• Specific documents, such as identification and birth certificates, must be submitted.

The notary may also require couples to provide a certificate of civil status confirming that they are not married to anyone else. These requirements vary slightly depending on the applicants’ nationality.

What documents does a foreign national need to get married before a notary?

The documents required to get married before a notary include:

• Personal identification: Passport or DNI, depending on nationality.
• Birth certificates: These must be legalized or apostilled, depending on the country of origin.
• Certificate of civil status: This document confirms that the foreign national is single, divorced or widowed.

It is essential that all documents not in Spanish be translated into Spanish. In addition, some notary offices may request additional documents, so we recommend checking directly with the notary.

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

The cost of getting married before a notary in Madrid may vary, but generally includes:

• Notary fees: usually range from 300 to 600 euros.
• Document processing costs: may range from 50 to 100 euros.
• Possible administrative fees: depending on the documents required.

It is important to bear in mind that the final price will depend on the complexity of the application and the number of documents that need to be processed. We recommend requesting a quote before the wedding.

What are the advantages of getting married before a notary?

Getting married before a notary offers several significant advantages:

• Time saving: The process is faster than at the Civil Registry.
• Choice of venue: Couples can choose the location of the ceremony.
• Less bureaucracy: The complicated documentation process required by the Civil Registry is avoided.

In addition, a ceremony before a notary ensures that the marriage is legally valid, which is essential for couples of different nationalities. It offers a level of privacy and convenience that many couples seek.

What is the procedure for applying to get married before a notary?

The procedure for applying to get married before a notary is fairly straightforward:

1. Choose a notary: It is important to select one based on their fees and availability.
2. Gather the documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents.
3. Book an appointment: Contact the notary to set a date.
4. Attend the marriage interview: The notary will conduct an interview to verify the couple's intentions.
5. Sign the marriage certificate: Finally, the certificate will be signed.

Each of these steps is essential to ensure that the marriage is conducted successfully and legally.

Frequently asked questions about getting married before a notary in Spain as a foreign national

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

A marriage celebrated before a notary in Spain has the same legal validity as one conducted at the Civil Registry. This type of marriage is recognised both nationally and internationally, ensuring that the union is protected by law. In addition, the notarial certificate is an official document that can be used for other legal procedures, such as obtaining visas or managing jointly owned property.

What documents does a foreign national need to get married in Spain?

A foreign national wishing to get married in Spain must submit several documents, including a valid passport, a birth certificate and a certificate of marital status. These documents must be duly legalised or apostilled, depending on the country of origin. Any document that is not in Spanish must also be translated by a sworn translator.

What documents are needed to get married at a notary's office?

To get married at a notary's office, you must submit:

• Personal identification (DNI or passport).
• Birth certificate.
• Certificate of marital status.

We also recommend checking with the notary whether any additional or specific documents are required, as this may vary depending on the nationalities of the people getting married.

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

The time it takes to get married before a notary may vary depending on several factors, such as the notary's availability and the complexity of the documents. Generally, the entire process can take between two weeks and one month. We recommend starting the procedures in advance to avoid any setbacks and ensure everything is ready for the desired date.