Getting married in Spain: Legal steps, venues, and planning tips

Getting married in Spain is as joyful as it is unforgettable. Don’t be surprised if your tie is cut into pieces and auctioned off to the highest bidder. In some Spanish weddings, it’s tradition for the groom’s friends to snip the tie, bit by bit, and sell the scraps to guests — a cheeky way to raise funds for the honeymoon. 

And if you’re the bride? You might be saying goodbye to your garter in a similar fashion.

You’ll need the extra cash because no one’s getting away with just canapés here. A Spanish wedding feast is a marathon — think five courses, flowing cava, decadent desserts, coffee, and late-night snacks – all part of usual wedding ceremonies in Spain.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get married in Spain, from the legal requirements and official documents to finding the right venue and choosing between a civil, symbolic, or religious wedding.

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Why get married in Spain?

You don’t need to fly halfway around the world for a destination wedding in Jamaica or a beach ceremony in the Bahamas when one of Europe’s most spectacular settings is just a short flight away. 

Spain offers everything you could want — Mediterranean sunshine, dramatic coastlines, historic towns, and a culture that knows how to celebrate love. Here are some reasons why couples choose a Spanish wedding instead of flying off to distant wedding destinations.

• The settings are stunning: From beaches to vineyards to ancient towns, weddings in Spain offer breathtaking backdrops. You’ll find venues that feel straight out of a movie — perfect for your dream wedding.

• It’s a wedding and honeymoon in one: Stay in Spain after the ceremony and explore cities, coastlines, and wine regions. Imagine having your wedding in Seville in May and staying there for an unforgettable honeymoon.

• It suits different wedding ceremonies:  Whether you’re after a civil ceremony, a Catholic wedding, or a symbolic celebration, Spain makes it easy to craft your ideal day — legally or just beautifully.

Let’s clear up the legalities first.

Can foreigners legally marry in Spain?

Let’s start with the burning question: can you get legally married in Spain if you’re not Spanish? The answer is yes — but there are some essential rules to understand. 

To have a legal marriage in Spain, you or your partner must be a Spanish national or have legal residency there. If you’re both foreign nationals without Spanish residency, you may need to consider a symbolic wedding instead. 

Many couples choose to handle the legal part at home and celebrate with a symbolic Spanish wedding on their own.

Always check with the local civil registry where you plan on getting married in Spain, as requirements vary by region.

Will your Spanish marriage be valid in your home country?

If you have a legally registered civil or Catholic wedding in Spain and provide the right documents, your marriage will be recognized in most countries — including the UK. 

Just make sure your marriage certificate is properly translated and apostilled if needed. It’s always smart to check with your local authorities in your home country to confirm recognition.

Legal requirements and documents for marriage in Spain

Before you can walk down the aisle in Spain, there’s paperwork to take care of — and it can vary depending on your location and whether your wedding is civil or Catholic. Here’s what you need to know.

Where and how to apply

• Apply at the local Spanish civil registry (Registro Civil) or town hall (Ayuntamiento), where your wedding will take place.
• Each region may have slightly different procedures and timelines, so always contact the Spanish civil registry office in advance.
• In some cases, especially if you travel to Barcelona, applications go through the central civil registry.

What documents do you need?

To apply for a legal marriage in Spain, you’ll typically need the following:

• Valid passports
• Original birth certificates
• Proof of civil status (e.g. single, divorced, or widowed)
• A Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) and/or Marital Status Certificate (MSC)
• Translations of all non-Spanish documents, plus an apostille stamp to legalize them
  

Be sure to check with your local civil registry for any region-specific requirements.

How to apply for a CNI and MSC 

As of the initiative launched on 3 February 2025, all applications must be submitted online, as paper applications are no longer accepted. Here’s how it works:

• Use the official online portal to apply for:
  • A Marital Status Certificate (MSC): Often required in Barcelona or for registering cohabitation
  • A Certificate of No Impediment (CNI): If you live in the UK, you’ll need one from a UK register office, then exchange it for a local CNI in Spain
  • Both documents together: Make one combined application if the registry advises you so.
• You’ll need to complete forms such as:
  • MSC affirmation
  • CNI affirmation
  • Notice of marriage
• Once completed, these forms must be taken to a notary in Spain for certification. Each form must be notarized individually.

Short summary:

Contact the civil registry where you plan to marry to confirm the required documents. Then, apply for your Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) and/or Marital Status Certificate (MSC), complete the forms, and have them notarized locally.

Getting married in Spain from the UK

Most legal requirements for getting married in Spain as a British citizen match those for other foreigners — but Brexit changed a few things. You now need to meet residency requirements, as most civil registries require at least one partner to have legal residence in Spain.

Many UK couples still go through with a legal wedding in Spain, but if you don’t qualify, a symbolic ceremony is a popular option. Just be sure your documents are correctly translated, apostilled, and submitted on time. 

Once married in Spain, your marriage certificate is usually valid in your home country, including the UK, but you should always check with local authorities.

When in doubt, check with your local register office or refer to the official UK government guidance.

Costs and timelines

If you’re planning a legal wedding in Spain, it’s important to factor in both the time it takes to prepare, deal with the Spanish authorities and the overall cost. Unlike symbolic weddings, which can be arranged quickly, legal civil marriages often involve documentation, appointments, and approvals that vary by region.

How quickly can you get married in Spain?

The timeline depends largely on your legal status and the region where you’re applying. In some areas, you may be able to marry within 4 to 6 weeks of submitting your paperwork — especially if you or your partner already has legal residence in Spain. 

In others, delays at the civil registry or town hall could mean waiting several months. If you’re aiming for a specific wedding date, start the process with the Spanish authorities as early as possible to avoid surprises.

How much does it cost to get married in Spain from the UK?

For UK couples pursuing a legal marriage in Spain, costs can vary widely depending on your approach. Expect to budget for:

• Registry fees at the civil registry or town hall (typically €100 – €300)
• Document translations and apostilles for certificates (around €150 – €400)
• Notarisation of your forms in Spain (approximately €50 – €150 per document)
• If you’re working with a wedding planner, coordination fees usually range from €1,500 – €5,000
• Venue costs, which can range anywhere from €3,000 for simple countryside weddings to €30,000+ for high-end resorts

Types of wedding ceremonies in Spain

Not every couple wants to deal with paperwork, translations, and registry visits. If you’re planning a destination wedding but don’t meet Spain’s legal requirements, a symbolic wedding offers a beautiful, stress-free alternative. Many couples handle the legal side in their home country and travel to the Canary Islands for the real party.

If you do want your marriage to be legally recognised in Spain, there are two main paths: civil and Catholic religious ceremonies. Here are the differences.

Civil marriage in Spain

A civil wedding is a secular, legally binding ceremony performed by a government official, typically at a town hall (ayuntamiento) or civil registry office (registro civil). These ceremonies are usually short, straightforward, and free of religious elements. They are ideal for couples looking for a simple, legally valid Spanish wedding.

• To be eligible, at least one partner must be a Spanish citizen or legal resident. Without this, foreign couples will likely not be approved for a civil marriage.
  
• These ceremonies are recognised internationally, including in the UK, as long as you complete the required paperwork and legalize your marriage certificate.
  
• You’ll need documents such as:
  
  • Valid passports
  • Birth certificates
  • Certificate of No Impediment (CNI)
  • Proof of civil status
  • Sometimes, a Marital Status Certificate (MSC)
    

Catholic wedding in Spain

A Catholic wedding in Spain is a religious ceremony and a legally recognized marriage if all requirements are met. Catholic weddings typically take place in beautiful historic churches and follow the structure of a traditional Catholic mass, with blessings, vows, and readings.

• To qualify, at least one partner must be a baptised Catholic. The church will request:
  
  • Baptism and confirmation certificates
  • Pre-marriage preparation (often called Pre-Cana)
  • Permission from your home parish and bishop
  • Approval from the local Spanish diocese
    
• After the ceremony, the couple must register the marriage with the local civil registry for it to be fully recognized by the state.
  
• Costs vary but are often by donation, with some churches suggesting €300 – €800, plus admin and translation fees.

Where to get married: Wedding venues in Spain

Spain offers no shortage of unforgettable wedding venues — historic castles, beachfront villas, vineyard estates, and charming town halls. From symbolic wedding ceremonies to formal events in a Catholic church, planning a wedding in Spain means choosing from some of Europe’s most stunning wedding venues.

To help you start planning a wedding in Spain, we’ve grouped top venues by region — with three suggestions each for budget, mid-range, and luxury tiers. Here’s your wedding travel guide through Spain.

Wedding ceremonies in Andalusia

Passionate, colorful, and deeply traditional, Andalusia is one of the most romantic regions for a destination wedding in Spain. Its mix of Moorish architecture, whitewashed villages, and flamenco soul makes it a favorite for couples wanting an authentic atmosphere.

Budget

• Cortijo de Enmedio (Granada): An Andalusian farmhouse with views of the Sierra Nevada. Great for rustic wedding ceremonies. From €2,500.
• Molino del Duque (Málaga): A converted 18th-century mill with private gardens and fountains. Venue hire from €3,200.
• Hacienda La Esperanza (Córdoba): Ideal for intimate celebrations. Prices start at €3,000.

Mid-range

• Finca La Concepción (Marbella): Tropical gardens meet historic elegance. Popular among couples hiring a wedding planner. From €9,500.
• Hacienda Los Angeles (Seville): An elegant estate perfect for medium-sized religious ceremonies or symbolic weddings. Packages from €10,000.
• Cortijo Bravo (Málaga): A romantic boutique hotel with mountain views and outdoor terraces. From €8,000.

Luxury

• Castillo de Santa Catalina (Málaga): A 17th-century hilltop fortress with dramatic views. An iconic wedding venue. From €15,000.
• Hacienda de San Rafael (Seville): A high-end venue combining rustic charm and upscale service. From €20,000.
• Villa Padierna Palace (Marbella): A Tuscan-style palace ideal for grand wedding ceremonies. Packages from €25,000.

Wedding ceremonies in Catalonia

With cosmopolitan Barcelona and the coastal beauty of Costa Brava, Catalonia blends modern style with historic charm.

Budget

• Casa Felix (Olivella): A laid-back venue perfect for symbolic or religious ceremonies. Prices start at €3,000.
• Masia Cabellut (Penedès): Vineyard setting, ideal for nature lovers. Venue hire from €3,500.
• This Must Be The Place (Barcelona): Perfect for a party after a civil ceremony. Modern, casual, and creative. From €3,500.

Mid-range

• El Convent de Blanes (Costa Brava): A historic convent overlooking the sea. A unique setting for Catholic weddings or symbolic events. Packages from €10,000.
• Mas Torroella (Girona): A 14th-century estate perfect for elegant wedding ceremonies. From €12,000.
• La Baronia (Barcelona): A stately home surrounded by forest, with space for large gatherings. From €11,000.

Luxury

• Castell d’Empordà (Girona): A medieval castle, one of the most iconic wedding venues in Spain. From €9,500.
• Hotel Miramar (Barcelona): A 5-star hotel with views of the city and sea. Premium packages from €20,000.
  Mas de Torrent (Costa Brava): A boutique spa hotel with impeccable service and scenery. From €22,000.

Wedding ceremonies in Madrid

For an elegant urban wedding ceremony or grand Catholic church affair, Spain’s capital delivers both style and convenience. Consider the seasons when choosing the time to visit Madrid for your wedding.

Budget

• Finca La Montaña: A charming countryside escape just outside the city. Venue hire from €4,000.
• El Antiguo Convento de Boadilla: A historic convent with indoor and garden spaces. From €4,500.
• La Quinta de Illescas: Flexible venue known for great value and lush gardens. From €5,000.

Mid-range

• Palacete de la Ochava: Boutique hotel perfect for stylish indoor or garden wedding ceremonies. From €10,000.
• Finca El Chaparral: Surrounded by forest, ideal for private destination weddings. From €12,000.
• La Casa de Mónico: Classic elegance meets modern hospitality. From €11,000.

Luxury

• Casino de Madrid: One of Spain’s most exclusive venues, with regal interiors and fine dining. Packages from €20,000.
• Palacio de Cibeles: A stunning civic palace in the heart of Madrid, ideal for formal Catholic weddings or civil events. From €25,000.
• Villa Magna Hotel: High-end city venue known for luxury service and timeless decor. From €30,000.

Wedding ceremonies on the Balearic Islands

Ideal for couples craving Mediterranean views, seaside vows, and the laid-back elegance of Mallorca, Ibiza, or Menorca.

Budget

• Son Togores (Mallorca): A quiet finca with mountain views and citrus groves. From €4,000.
• Finca Son Bosch (Mallorca): Rustic countryside venue near the coast. From €4,500.
• Cas Mila (Ibiza): Clifftop restaurant ideal for symbolic wedding ceremonies. From €3,000.

Mid-range

• Son Marroig (Mallorca): Cliffside views and marble pavilions. A favorite for symbolic or religious ceremonies. From €7,000.
• Villa Alma (Ibiza): Stylish and modern, with space for guests and dancing. From €10,000.
• Finca Es Cabas (Mallorca): Rustic-chic venue with full-service options. From €9,000.

Luxury

• Cap Rocat (Mallorca): Former fortress turned 5-star hotel. Ultimate privacy and style. Packages from €25,000.
• Atzaró Agroturismo (Ibiza): A luxurious retreat blending nature and refinement. From €30,000.
  Villa Las Cicadas (Ibiza): Exclusive villa with poolside ceremony spaces and elegant gardens. From €28,000.

Wedding ceremonies in the Canary Islands 

Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote are sun-drenched all year round, with volcanic beauty and exotic charm. They are perfect for a tropical-feeling destination wedding without leaving Europe.

Budget

• Finca Salamanca (Tenerife): Traditional Canarian estate with vibrant gardens. From €3,500.
• La Vicaría (Gran Canaria): Small, colorful venue ideal for symbolic or religious ceremonies. From €3,000.
• Finca Las Margaritas (Tenerife): Affordable venue near the coast, great for smaller events. From €3,200.

Mid-range

• Hacienda de Abajo (La Palma): Historic sugar estate turned boutique hotel, full of character. From €12,000.
• Finca El Escobonal (Tenerife): Cliffside venue with unique volcanic views. From €10,000.
• Hotel Cordial Roca Negra (Gran Canaria): Chic and coastal, great for modern wedding ceremonies. From €9,000.

Luxury

• The Ritz-Carlton, Abama (Tenerife): Ocean views, five-star service, and space for a full weekend celebration. From €30,000.
• Salobre Hotel Resort & Serenity (Gran Canaria): Upscale golf and spa resort with panoramic ceremony spots. From €28,000.
• Lanzarote Retreats: High-end eco-luxury venues on the island’s stunning volcanic terrain. From €25,000.

Hiring a destination wedding planner in Spain

If you’re not based in Spain, working with a destination wedding planner can make all the difference. They handle the heavy lifting — from securing your wedding venue to managing local vendors, translators, and legal paperwork. This is especially helpful if you’re planning a Catholic wedding, where coordination with the Catholic church and civil authorities is often required.

Many planners offer full-service packages that include:

• Venue sourcing (especially helpful when comparing wedding venues in Spain)
• Vendor coordination: catering, flowers, music, photography
• Styling and décor tailored to your wedding ceremony
• Guidance with legal documents and appointments for civil or religious ceremonies
• Translation services and on-site coordination

Working with a planner can save you time, stress, and costly mistakes — but it’s not for everyone. One downside is the additional cost, which can range from €1,500 to €5,000 depending on the scope. 

Also, some couples prefer to have full creative control and enjoy planning a wedding in Spain themselves, especially if they’re familiar with the country or speak Spanish.

Final touches for your big day

Getting married in Spain offers a chance to create a memorable wedding experience. Spain delivers romance equally for the symbolic ceremony on the Mediterranean sea, civil wedding in a historic town hall, or a Catholic wedding in a centuries-old church.

Just remember: the earlier you start, the smoother it goes. From legal paperwork and venue booking to language barriers and local timelines, planning a wedding in Spain comes with details that deserve attention. 

And while your planner or venue coordinator can handle much of it, staying connected is still essential — especially if you’re traveling between countries or managing things remotely.

That’s where Holafly eSIM for Spain can make a real difference. It gives you instant data access without swapping SIM cards or racking up roaming fees in Spain. Whether you’re checking schedules, messaging vendors, or uploading photos from your big day, staying online helps keep your destination wedding plans on track. 

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Katarina M Arsic

Senior Writer

With a background in English literature and a focus on storytelling, I’ve turned my interests in travel and technology into a career helping others stay connected abroad. Originally from Serbia, I work remotely with my husband, experiencing local cultures firsthand and bringing that perspective to my writing for Holafly. Fun fact: before focusing on content creation, I was a professional volleyball player.

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