Requirements for Marriage to Someone from Another Country in the United States

Marriage to someone from another country in the United States comes with a unique set of considerations and requirements, required to ensure the legality and proper documentation of the union. This article outlines the essential conditions that must be met to marry someone from a different country in the U.S., including age restrictions, current marital status, consent, identification requirements, and fees. While drive-through weddings in Las Vegas have been a subject of interest in the past, such quick weddings are not a common practice anymore and come with their own complexities.

Age and Consent

In the United States, the concept of maturity and consent is crucial in establishing the legal framework for marriage. To legally marry someone from another country, you must meet certain age requirements. In most states, individuals must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental permission. If you are under 18, you will need your parents' or legal guardian's consent. This ensures that any marriage under the age of 18 is entered into willingly and with the support of the individual's primary caregivers.

Current Marital Status

Another important requirement is the confirmation of your current marital status. You must be single to legally marry someone from another country. This means that you cannot have a live-in relationship, common-law marriage, or any other form of co-habitation that constitutes a form of partnership. It is essential to verify your marital status before you begin the marriage process to avoid any complications or legal challenges to your marriage.

Consent

Consent is a fundamental principle in marriage and permeates all aspects of the process. Both individuals must give clear and explicit consent to enter into a marriage. This consent is not only legally formal but also personally genuine, reflecting the individuals' mutual desire to marry each other. It is critical to ensure that there is no coercion or undue influence, and the decision to marry is made freely and solely by both parties.

Identification and Fees

As part of the marriage process, you must present valid forms of identification and be willing to pay the associated fees. You will typically need to show a valid government-issued ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or social security card. These documents serve to verify your identity and help prevent identity fraud, ensuring the integrity of the marriage record.

Marriage licenses come at a nominal fee, which can vary by state. The fee is a small but necessary expense that contributes to the overall cost of recording the marriage. It is important to ensure that you are prepared to cover this fee as part of your overall planning process.

Officiant Requirements

Marrying someone from another country can also involve considerations related to the officiant. In the U.S., marriages must be officiated by a legally authorized individual, such as a justice of the peace, a minister, a rabbi, or other religious leader. The officiant must complete the marriage license application and can only officiate if they are registered and licensed to do so. It is crucial to verify the credentials of the officiant to ensure that they meet the legal requirements for performing a marriage ceremony in your state.

A Brief History of Las Vegas Weddings

While many think of drive-through weddings in Las Vegas as a common and easy option for international marriages, it is essential to note that such quick weddings are not a common practice anymore and come with their own set of complications. Las Vegas was once known for its glamorous and fast marriage ceremonies, with drive-through weddings and quick registration processes. However, recent changes in state laws and heightened scrutiny on the process have led to a shift away from these quick and informal wedding practices.

Conclusion

Successfully marrying someone from another country in the United States requires meeting several requirements, from age and consent to the presentation of identification and payment of fees. With careful planning and adherence to these criteria, you can ensure a smooth and legally valid marriage. Remember to choose a qualified and authorized officiant, prepare for any potential delays or complications, and take the time to understand the full scope of the marriage process before proceeding.