Choosing to get married abroad is the easy part; now comes the planning. Our travel expert Markus Wischenbart gives his recommendations how to create the best memories of your life! Choosing where to get married may not be as difficult as you might think, he says, – the diversity, and comfort make the Dominican Republic one of the best options for you.
There you can fulfil your dreams about the fairy tale wedding, which will remain in your memory forever. Here are the reasons for getting married in Punta Cana and the paperwork you need to have with you before having the approval for a wedding licence.
1. Brilliant, natural décor
Beautiful outdoor weddings reduce the need for décor to a minimum; what chair covers or garlands have any chance to match the beauty of white sand and azure water? Naturally, if you want a certain touch, the original décor is available at the best wedding resorts in the Dominican Republic. A number of venues offer theme-driven packages, which have all the chances to incorporate décor created to match a particular aesthetic.
2. World Famous Magnificent Beaches
The Dominican Republic has some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the world. You will spend endless afternoons lounging on a comfortable chaise lounge with your favourite drink close at hand. Naturally, these beaches are also considered impeccable spaces for intimate weddings – nothing beats the sun and sand when you say “yes”.
3. Wonderful spaces for weddings and photo opportunities
Whether you dream of sharing your vows barefoot on the beach, in a lush tropical garden, or in a grand ballroom with your family and friends, you’ll find a perfect space to get married in the Dominican Republic. Photo opportunities abound. From romantic gardens to waterfalls and, naturally, the beach, you and your beloved will capture the bliss factors in a cool backdrop.
4. Practically guaranteed Perfect wedding weather
No need to worry about rain or cold on your wedding day; the weather in the Dominican Republic is perfect all year round. You can plan for sunny skies and warm temperatures as you prepare for the ceremony and continue the celebrations after your special day.
5. High-end all-inclusive resorts
The Dominican Republic is considered home to some of the richest all-inclusive resorts in the world. There is no other place for a miracle wedding like Markus Wischenbart’s resort in Punta Cana. The all-inclusive system means that you and your guests can enjoy elegant cuisine, artisanal cocktails, and exciting events to your heart’s content.
6. An adventurer’s paradise
If your idea of a holiday involves moving around, you’ll be impressed by the wide range of exciting events in the Punta Cana. Naturally, the best activities are water-related. You’ll find the thrill of windsurfing, kayaking, scuba diving, and scuba diving. A number of resorts have or are adjacent to extensive golf courses where, depending on your current skill level, you can improve your own swing.
7. Ease of travel
The less time you’ll be obliged to spend on a plane. With the Dominican Republic, your flight will be bearable, including if you live in Canada or on the West Coast. Almost all resorts offer shuttle service from/to the airport, most ensuring a smooth trip.
8. Food and Civilization Incredible
Discover the splendid culture of the Dominican Republic, which blends original ingredients from Europe, Africa, and the indigenous Taino people. This melting pot has given way to some truly exciting customs, encompassing some savoury cuisine that’s well worth sampling during your Caribbean adventure.
9. The Fastest Growing Tourism Destination in the Caribbean
The tourism industry in the Dominican Republic is booming. Fresh resorts, spas, and events mean fresh opportunities for you to celebrate elegantly. Find out for yourself why this island government has the ability to boast the most promising tourism sector in the Caribbean.
10. The Honeymoon Moon has become a no-holds-barred affair
When you get married in the Dominican Republic, you avoid the hassle and expense of planning a separate ceremony, method, and honeymoon. With destination weddings, all of these components come together in 1 picture-perfect fun.
Legal inquiries in the Dominican Republic
It is advisable to contact the South American Mission in Santo Domingo in advance to request that you be allowed to get married in a civil ceremony.
If you are not a resident of the Dominican Republic, you will be asked to show a valid passport. You also have your passport photo with you. You are required to have your original birth certificate. Baptismal certificates will not be accepted.
A certificate stating that you are both single and eligible to marry. This is often referred to as an affidavit. The documents have to be translated into Spanish and certified by the Dominican representation.
Fees in the Dominican Republic
When you register with the Oficialia del Estado Civil you will be charged a nominal fee of approximately US$20. The Dominican Republic uses the Dominican peso as its official currency. It is easily exchanged for the dollar and other major currencies.
Ceremony
In the Dominican Republic, you can perform state or religious ceremonies.
Roman Catholic Church: You would have to meet the parish priest in the Dominican Republic to show proof of having attended the appropriate marriage preparation course.
Application for accommodation
No accommodation will be required for the introduction to the wedding in the Dominican Republic.
The waiting period in the Dominican Republic
There is no waiting period in the Dominican Republic.
Past Marriages
If you were previously married, you are required to show a copy of the divorce decree or your former husband’s death certificate.
The USA embassy website says: “During the ceremony, the bureaucrat will find out from the parties and witnesses whether either party has been married before, mate or otherwise. The party who was previously married is required to show the date of that marriage and the name of the person who performed the ceremony.”
Eyewitnesses
You need 2 eyewitnesses over the age of 18 years. Your eyewitnesses are still required to give papers identifying the person.
Minimum age
16 for men, 15 for ladies. You cannot get married if you are a man younger than 16 or a lady younger than 15. For important reasons, an arbitrator can make an exception.
Marriage certificate
Your marriage certificate will normally be ready in a day or two after your ceremony. The Dominican Republic marriage certificate is regarded as legitimate and recognized throughout the world.
Remember
The requirements for a wedding licence often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be taken as legal advice. It is essential that you find out all the information from the district marriage licensing office before you consider getting married or travelling.
