Planning a wedding in the sun? Sounds dreamy! But before you pack your bags and walk barefoot down the beach aisle, it’s essential to know what travel documents Canadian couples need for a destination wedding.
The truth is, every country has different rules, and skipping a small step, such as not having the proper paperwork, can cause significant headaches. Don’t worry, though. With a bit of prep and the correct info, this part is totally manageable. In this guide, we’ll break it all down for you, from your passports to your destination wedding marriage license and everything in between.
Before we dive in, welcome! At Love at First Travel, we help Canadian couples plan their destination weddings by finding the perfect all-inclusive resort, securing group travel deals, and ensuring guests are supported every step of the way. We’re not wedding planners, we’re your travel experts for all things destination wedding, including what documents you need to tie the knot abroad. Ready to get started? Reach out today, or come say hi on Instagram!
This may seem obvious, but it’s essential. Every Canadian couple planning a destination wedding needs a valid passport. And not just valid for the wedding week. Most countries require your passport to be good for at least six months after your travel dates. So, double-check those expiry dates early.
If your passport is expired or nearing expiration, apply to renew it as soon as possible. Passport processing times can take weeks, especially during busy travel seasons.
And it’s not just about the couple. All your guests will also need valid passports. If you’re inviting friends or family who haven’t travelled in a while, give them a heads-up to check theirs. It’s one of those little things that can slip through the cracks.
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Every destination has its own rules regarding legal weddings. The travel documents Canadian couples need can change depending on where they’re getting married. For example, some countries require your birth certificate, while others request a translated copy, and a few even necessitate blood tests or waiting periods.
This is where things can get a little tricky. If having a legal ceremony abroad is essential to you, you’ll want to research the rules before choosing your destination. Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica are popular destinations for Canadian couples, but each has slightly different marriage laws.
The good news? Most resorts have wedding teams who guide you through the legal steps. And if it all sounds like a lot, many couples choose to do the legal paperwork in Canada first and have a symbolic ceremony at the resort. That way, you get all the beach wedding magic without the legal stress.
So, what travel documents do Canadian couples need to legally tie the knot abroad? It depends on the destination, but here are the most common ones you might be asked for:
Just getting started? Grab our Destination Wedding Planning Guide for real advice, checklists, and stress-saving tips.
One of the most common questions we hear is whether couples need to register their destination wedding in Canada. The short answer is usually no. If the country where you got married legally recognizes your wedding, Canada will typically recognize it too. That said, you will need to bring home your official marriage certificate from the destination. This is different from the decorative one you sign during the ceremony. The government-issued certificate often arrives by mail a few weeks after the wedding.
If you plan to change your last name or need the certificate for legal purposes, be sure to request multiple copies and follow any additional steps your province may require. Not all destination weddings receive legal recognition, so it’s important to check the requirements. Many couples choose to handle the paperwork at home and have a symbolic ceremony at the resort. This is a valid choice and much more common than you might think. It still feels just as special, and you won’t have to deal with extra paperwork in another language.
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When considering the travel documents Canadian couples need, passports and marriage certificates naturally come to mind first. However, travel insurance and health-related documents also play an important role!
Travel insurance can protect you if something unexpected happens, like a delayed flight, lost luggage, or a last-minute illness. Some companies even offer special coverage for destination weddings, which can help with issues such as weather delays or vendor cancellations. It’s a wise investment, especially when you’re travelling with a group.
Depending on your destination, you may also need to provide proof of certain vaccinations or complete health forms before travelling. Some countries still enforce COVID-19 entry rules or ask travellers to complete online forms before arrival. These rules can change often, so it’s a good idea to check closer to your departure date.
You don’t need to overwhelm your guests with excessive information, but providing them with a quick heads-up or a link to official travel guidelines can make things easier for everyone.
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When you’re juggling wedding plans and travel documents, staying organized can make a big difference. Here are some simple ways to keep everything on track:
Not sure where to start? Check out our 9 essential steps for Canadians planning a destination wedding.
Planning a destination wedding is an exciting adventure, but we know the paperwork can sometimes feel overwhelming. The good news is that once you know what travel documents Canadian couples need, it’s much easier to check them off and move forward with confidence.
Thinking a destination wedding might be the perfect fit for you? We’d love to help you take the next step. Whether you’re still figuring out what travel documents Canadian couples need or are ready to start searching for your dream resort, we’re here to make the travel side feel simple and stress-free.
Download our Destination Wedding Planning Guide for tons of real advice, or reach out to learn more about how we support couples (and their guests) every step of the way. We can’t wait to hear all about your vision!
July 10, 2025
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