How do I get married in Puerto Rico?

Question

My fiance and I want to get married in PR. We are both US citizens. I need to know the process. It will just be the 2 of us, so no cake, no flowers - just a minister and help with figuring out the licsence and blood test. Would like the beach or a gazebo on the beach - do I have to reserve a spot or just step out onto the beach?

Answer 1

I can help.  We had some guests do a low stress wedding- on the beach with a minister.   It was lovely.

Things you need to be married in PR:

First things first-

Marriage license papers may be requested in writing from the:  Dept. of Health, Demographic Registry Office, Box 11854, Fernandez Juncos Station, Santurce, PR 00910 (allow 2 months) or call [phone].   One problem is the Marriage License is all in Spanish.  The cost is about $30 because you have to purchase two license stamps.

What to bring with you:

    *  photo ID  (drivers license ) for American Citizens (or passport).

* Original birth certificates for both people.

  * If previously married, you need a certified copy of the finalized divorce decree or death certificate with a raised seal prior to a marriage license being granted  

Then:

  * Blood tests are required (VDRL), although a test conducted on the U.S. mainland or in PR within 10 days of the ceremony.

Once you get to PR:  go to a Doctor in Puerto Rico wh will need to sign and certify marriage certificate and blood tests.

Now you are ready to  apply for the license at City Court office.  Go to the  Marriage License Bureau to have all the documents authenticated and get the license.  Note: Both the bride and groom must appear in person at the time of applying for the papers

Persons must be over 16 to wed and if under 21 years of age must have the consent of their parents or legal guardians to marry.

Once you have done these hurdles you are ready to go: The license is good indefinitely.

The marriage certificate  will be ready in about 10 days after the marriage is registered by the judge or minister.

The amount of time needed to complete the license requirements is around 2 months, so prepare in advance!

http://www.salud.gov.pr/Programas/Regist...

A minister who I met at my guests wedding who helped them with everything (going to the offices, the doctors etc)...

Rev Santana (email- [e-mail]  787-435-3145)

Good luck and congratulations!

Answer 2

To separate a gazebo you need to make a reservation, for a place on the sand or under the palm trees no reservation is required, it is just First In, First Served.

For the minister you need to contact one and ask if he/she agree to marry you or if he/she can suggest another that will.

There are some blodd test / laboratory analysis and the paperwork required at the Registro Demografico to get the marriage license.

Answer 3

Coquishi, that was great! And to you two, congratulations, it will be beautiful!