All foreign documents must be translated into French by an accredited translator and may require an apostille for official use.
Getting Married in France as an American
Legal Requirements and Symbolic Weddings
Picture yourself…
saying “I do” in a romantic vineyard near Bordeaux, inside a majestic French château, or under the twinkling lights of Paris. France has long been a dream wedding destination for couples from the United States, offering an irresistible blend of history, elegance, and unforgettable beauty.
Planning a wedding in France, however, comes with its own set of rules and formalities. Whether you’re envisioning a legal ceremony or a symbolic celebration, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your dream wedding a reality.
Can U.S. Citizens Get Married in France?
Yes, U.S. citizens can legally marry in France — but there are specific requirements to meet.
French law states that at least one of the partners (or their parents) must have a long-lasting connection to the town where the civil ceremony takes place. This usually means owning or renting a home and providing proof of residency for at least 30 days before submitting a marriage application.
Because of these requirements, many American couples prefer to have a legal marriage in the United States first, and then travel to France for a symbolic ceremony surrounded by family and friends.
Do I Need to Be a Resident of France to Get Married?
Yes — for a legal civil marriage.
One of you must prove residency in the town where the wedding will occur.
Without residency, you cannot have a legal civil wedding in France — but you can absolutely plan a symbolic or religious ceremony without restrictions.
This is the option most American couples choose when organizing their dream wedding in France.
Can I Get Married in France on a Tourist Visa?
If you’re coming to France with a tourist visa, you can easily host a symbolic wedding ceremony.
However, for a legal civil marriage, the residency requirement must still be fulfilled, regardless of your visa status.
What Documents Are Required for a Legal Marriage in France?
If you meet the residency requirements and wish to proceed with a legal ceremony, you’ll need to prepare the following:
- Valid passports or government-issued IDs for both partners
- Proof of address in France (utility bill, rental contract, etc.)
- Original birth certificates issued within the last 3-6 months, translated into French
- Certificate of celibacy (Certificat de Célibat)
- Certificate of custom (Certificat de Coutume) confirming you are free to marry
- Divorce or death certificates (if applicable)
- Witness information (two to four witnesses, with copies of their IDs)
- Optional: Prenuptial agreement handled by a French notary
Where Does the Legal Ceremony Take Place?
All legal marriages in France take place at the local Town Hall (mairie).
Ceremonies are performed by the mayor or an appointed official, and must be completed before any religious or symbolic celebration.
Unlike in the United States, civil ceremonies cannot be performed at private venues such as châteaux or hotels.
What About Religious or Symbolic Ceremonies?
If you want a stress-free experience, hosting a symbolic ceremony in France is the perfect solution.
Symbolic weddings allow you to:
01
Skip the Complex Legal Requirements for Your Wedding
Avoid navigating French bureaucracy and focus on celebrating your love.
02
Choose any venue you love (château, vineyard, seaside, etc.)
Enjoy complete freedom to select a setting that matches your vision.
03
Personalize every aspect of your ceremony
Craft vows, rituals, and details that truly reflect your story.
04
Have someone you trust officiate your ceremony
Make the moment more meaningful with a friend, family member, or professional celebrant.
Many couples complete the legal formalities in the U.S. first and then celebrate their wedding in France with all the style, romance, and emotion — without the paperwork headaches.
Same-Sex Marriage in France
Same-sex marriage has been legal in France since 2013.
Couples of all genders are warmly welcomed for legal or symbolic weddings across the country.
Top Locations for Weddings in France
Some of the most beautiful places to celebrate your French wedding include:
The vineyards and châteaux of Bordeaux
Perfect for wine lovers and those dreaming of a classic countryside celebration.
The timeless romance of Paris
Nothing compares to saying “Oui je le veux” in the City of Love with its iconic backdrops.
The lavender fields of Provence
A stunning choice for dreamy outdoor ceremonies surrounded by natural beauty.
The luxury estates of the French Riviera
Perfect for glamorous celebrations under the Mediterranean sun.
The coastal charm of Île de Ré & La Rochelle
A picturesque island and port city. Ideal for a romantic seaside wedding.
Booking your wedding venue 12 to 18 months in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular dates.
How Much Does a Wedding in France Cost?
On average, destination weddings in France range from €30,000 to €80,000.
Elopements and intimate ceremonies can be more affordable, while large château weddings can go beyond €100,000, depending on your vision.
Traditional French Wedding Customs
Want to add a French touch to your celebration?
Here are some cherished traditions you can incorporate:
- Vin d’Honneur: A champagne and canapé reception following the ceremony.
- Croquembouche: A stunning traditional French wedding cake made of cream puffs.
- Champagne Tower: A show-stopping moment at the reception.
- Late-Night Onion Soup: Served to keep the party going into the night.
- Car Parade: Guests honk their car horns as they travel from ceremony to reception.
Why Choose Me as Your Wedding Photographer in France
I’m Wayan Barre, a French-American wedding photographer specializing in destination weddings for U.S. couples in France.
After living in the United States for several years, I understand both cultures deeply and offer a smooth, bilingual experience from start to finish.
- Fluent in English and French: Communicate effortlessly throughout the planning process and on your wedding day.
- Experience working with American couples: I understand your expectations and wedding traditions.
- Familiar with U.S. wedding traditions and expectations: I’ll help make everything feel natural and meaningful.
- Currently relocating to France with a focus on weddings in Bordeaux, La Rochelle, and Paris: Well-positioned to offer local expertise and insider recommendations.
- Documentary-style storytelling to capture every emotion naturally, combined with my experience as an internationally published photojournalist: Real, timeless, and emotion-filled images.
I work closely with you to ensure that every part of your wedding feels effortless and joyful — from the planning process to the day itself.
