How to Get Married in Spain as a British Citizen

Mar Varela
May 28
3 min read

In recent years, Spain has become one of the most sought-after destinations for British couples dreaming of a romantic wedding abroad. Whether you imagine a sun-drenched vineyard in Andalusia or a seaside ceremony in Valencia, Spain offers a blend of charm, culture, and effortless beauty. But if you're a British citizen ready to say "I do" here, it's important to understand the legal and logistical steps involved.

At Lola Ribas Events, we specialize in helping international couples get married in Spain British citizen style—seamlessly, beautifully, and stress-free. In this guide, we walk you through everything you need to know to legally marry in Spain as a Brit.

Get married in Costa Brava as a british citizen — Get married in Spain as a british citizen

Why Get Married in Spain as a British Citizen?

Choosing to get married in Spain British citizen style offers you more than great weather and stunning views. It’s about creating a moment that reflects your story, your values, and your dreams.

Romantic venues across coastlines, cities, and countrysides
World-renowned gastronomy for your wedding menu
Mild Mediterranean climate for year-round celebrations
A mix of symbolic and legal wedding options
Rich Spanish traditions to enhance your ceremony

If you're planning your destination wedding with Lola Ribas Events, you’ll have access to exclusive venues, trusted vendors, and local expertise that makes your journey smooth from day one.

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Legal Requirements: Can a British Citizen Legally Get Married in Spain?

Yes—but with conditions. To legally get married in Spain British citizen couples must meet specific residency or legal criteria. Here's what you need to know:

Types of Marriage Recognized:

Civil Marriage (legally binding)
Religious Marriage (recognized if registered with Spanish authorities)
Symbolic Ceremony (not legally binding, often preferred by destination couples)

Required Documents to Get Married in Spain as a British Citizen

To get married in Spain British citizen, you'll need the following:

Document	Notes
Valid UK Passport	Must be in date
Certificate of No Impediment (CNI)	Issued by your local UK registry office; proves you're free to marry
Birth Certificate	Must be original and may require translation into Spanish
Marriage Application Form	Obtained from the Spanish Civil Registry
Proof of Address (Residency Certificate)	Needed only for civil marriage; not required for symbolic ceremonies
Divorce/Death Certificate (if applicable)	Must be legalized and translated

Note: All documents should be apostilled and translated into Spanish by a sworn translator.

Get married in Spain as a british citizen

Step-by-Step: How to Get Married in Spain British Citizen

Decide the Type of Ceremony:
Choose between a civil or symbolic wedding. Most British couples opt for a symbolic ceremony and handle the legalities in the UK.
Book Your Venue & Planner:
Work with an expert like Lola Ribas Events, who will guide you in choosing the perfect location and start the planning journey.
Gather Your Legal Documents:
Apply for your CNI and collect all necessary paperwork well in advance.
Submit Documents to the Spanish Registry:
This step must happen in Spain if you're opting for a civil marriage. Timelines can vary, so it's essential to start early.
Plan the Celebration:
From décor to dinner, trust Lola Ribas Events to craft a meaningful and elegant wedding day tailored to you.
Enjoy Your Wedding in Spain:
With logistics handled, you can focus on celebrating love with your family and friends under the Spanish sun.

Symbolic vs. Legal Wedding in Spain

While it’s possible to get married in Spain British citizen legally, many couples find that having a symbolic wedding is simpler and more flexible. You can still have a personalized ceremony in your dream location, and then register the marriage back home in the UK.

Get married in Valencia as a british citizen

Can You Get Married in Spain Without Living There?

Yes! This is a common question from couples looking to get married in Spain British citizen style. If you're not a resident, you can either:

Have a symbolic wedding in Spain (no paperwork needed!)
Or have a civil ceremony only if one partner is a resident in Spain or has lived there for at least two years (in some regions)

This is why many couples work with Lola Ribas Events to design a celebration that feels real and romantic—even if the legal part happens elsewhere.