How to Get Married in Florida

Getting married is one of those life moments that feels a bit like standing at the edge of a diving board. You’re excited, maybe a little nervous, and wondering if you’ve prepared enough before taking the leap. If Florida is the place where you plan to say “I do,” you’re in good company. From sandy beaches to elegant courthouses, Florida is one of the most popular wedding destinations in the world—especially for international couples.

But how exactly does it work? What documents do you need? Is getting married in Florida for foreigners complicated or surprisingly simple? Let’s walk through it together.

1. Why Florida Is a Popular Place to Get Married

For foreigners, Florida stands out because the process is relatively simple. No residency requirement, no citizenship requirement, and no need for long waiting times in most cases. It’s a bit like a drive-thru wedding system—legal, efficient, and surprisingly romantic if done right.

2. Who Can Get Married in Florida?

The short answer? Almost anyone.

Florida allows marriage between:

• Two adults of legal age

• U.S. citizens and non-citizens

• Couples from different countries

• Same-sex couples

There is no requirement to be a Florida resident. You can fly in, get married, and fly out married. Simple as that.

3. Legal Age and Basic Requirements

To get married in Florida:

• You must be 18 years or older, or

• Be 16–17 with parental consent

Both parties must be legally free to marry. That means:

• Not currently married

• Any previous marriages must be legally ended (divorce or death certificate)

Honesty matters here. Florida takes marriage seriously, even if the process feels easy.

4. Getting Married in Florida for Foreigners: What You Need to Know

This is where many people get nervous, but take a breath—it’s simpler than you think.

Getting married in Florida for foreigners does not require:

• U.S. citizenship

• Permanent residency

• A special “marriage visa”

Foreigners can legally marry in Florida as tourists. The marriage itself does not give immigration benefits automatically, but it is legally valid.

5. Required Documents for Marriage in Florida

Here’s what you typically need:

• Valid photo ID

  • Passport (for foreigners)

  • Driver’s license or state ID (for U.S. citizens)

• Social Security Number

  • Only required if you have one (foreigners usually don’t)

• Proof of divorce (if applicable)

  • Date of divorce is usually enough

No birth certificate is required in most counties, but it’s always smart to double-check locally.

6. Do You Need a Visa to Get Married in Florida?

You do not need a specific visa just to get married.

Most foreigners marry in Florida using:

• Tourist visa (B-2)

• ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)

However, marrying in Florida and planning to immigrate later are two different things. If immigration is your goal, you should consult an immigration attorney before making plans.

7. How to Apply for a Marriage License

Applying for a marriage license in Florida is straightforward:

1. Go to a County Clerk’s Office

2. Apply in person or online (varies by county)

3. Pay the fee

4. Receive your marriage license

Both partners must usually apply together, though some counties allow separate appearances with notarized forms.

8. Waiting Period and Validity of the License

Here’s a key detail many people miss:

• Florida residents may have a 3-day waiting period

• Non-residents usually do not have a waiting period

That means foreigners can often get married the same day they receive the license.

The license is valid for 60 days, so you have a two-month window to hold your ceremony.

9. Marriage Ceremony Options in Florida

One of the biggest advantages of getting married in Florida is the flexibility in how and where your ceremony can take place. Couples are not limited to traditional weddings or large events. Instead, Florida allows simple civil ceremonies, including weddings performed directly at a notary’s office.

Getting married at a notary in Florida is an excellent option for couples who want a quick, legal, and stress-free ceremony. In most cases, the required documents are minimal, and the ceremony itself can be held right in Florida without complicated planning.

Florida marriage ceremonies may take place at:

• A notary’s office for a civil wedding

• A courthouse

• A beach or outdoor location

• A religious venue

• A private setting arranged by the couple

Witnesses are generally not required, unless requested by the officiant. Some couples choose a brief, straightforward ceremony, while others prefer something more personalized. The notary option is especially popular among couples looking for efficiency, clarity, and legal certainty.

10. Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Florida?

Florida law provides several options when it comes to who can legally officiate a wedding, making the process simple and accessible for both residents and foreigners.

A wedding in Florida may be officiated by:

• A Florida notary public authorized to perform marriages

• Judges or court clerks

• Ordained ministers or religious leaders

For couples seeking a civil marriage, a notary in Florida is often the most practical choice. Notaries can legally perform wedding ceremonies and handle the necessary documentation in one place. This makes the process especially convenient for couples who want to avoid multiple appointments or complex procedures.

This flexibility is ideal for destination weddings, international couples, and anyone who prefers a smooth and straightforward experience.

11. Costs and Timeframes You Should Expect

The cost and timing of getting married in Florida can vary depending on several factors, including the type of ceremony, the officiant, and the services included.

When choosing to get married at a notary’s office in Florida, couples often find the process to be efficient and transparent, with fewer steps involved. Because each situation is different, fees and timeframes are not fixed and may depend on:

• The type of civil wedding service requested

• Document review and processing

• Additional administrative services, if needed

For accurate information regarding pricing, availability, and required documents, couples are encouraged to contact the notary’s office directly to inquire about civil wedding services in Florida. This ensures clear expectations and a smooth experience from start to finish.

12. After the Wedding: Marriage Certificate and Apostille

After the ceremony:

• The officiant files the license

• You receive a marriage certificate Florida

If you plan to use the marriage abroad, you may need:

• An apostille

• Or consular legalization

This step is crucial for foreigners using their Florida marriage in another country.

13. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Some easy-to-avoid errors:

• Forgetting passport validity

• Assuming marriage equals immigration status

• Not checking county-specific rules

• Waiting too long to apostille documents

A little planning goes a long way.

14. Final Tips for a Smooth Wedding Experience

• Contact the county clerk before traveling

• Bring extra copies of documents

• Plan your ceremony early

• Ask about apostille services in advance

Conclusion

Getting married in Florida is refreshingly simple, even for international couples. With no residency requirements, flexible rules, and beautiful settings, it’s easy to see why so many people choose Florida.

If you’re considering getting married in Florida for foreigners, rest assured: with the right documents and a bit of planning, it’s absolutely achievable.