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Marrying in Peru

Marrying in Peru

A practical guide to getting legally married in Peru

Planning to get married in Peru? First of all - congratulations! Getting legally married in Peru is not overly complicated, but it does require preparation, paperwork, and patience. Especially if a foreigner is involved, collecting the right documents and understanding the local procedures early on can save you from delays and last-minute stress.

And yes - this is Peru. So expect a bit of running around, possible waiting times, and the occasional bureaucratic surprise. The good news: thousands of couples successfully marry in Peru every year. With the right information and realistic expectations, you can too.

This guide covers everything you need to know about getting married in Peru: where and how to marry, which documents are required (particularly for foreign nationals), and what to expect when it comes to religious ceremonies, receptions, costs, and destination weddings.

 

Overview

 

Civil Wedding in Peru

Introduction

In Peru, only a civil marriage is legally recognized. So, if you dream of a church wedding, a romantic beach ceremony, a Shaman’s blessing, or an adventurous mountaintop marriage, be aware that they have no legal validity on their own.

If you want to be legally married in Peru, you must first complete a civil ceremony.

A civil wedding in Peru can be performed either:

  • at the registry office of a municipality, or
  • since December 2022, at a public notary.
 

Who can legally marry in Peru

You can marry in Peru if:

  • both partners are at least 18 years old.
  • at least one partner is Peruvian or a legal resident of Peru.
  • additionally, most municipalities and notaries require that at least one partner lives in the district where the wedding takes place or within the notary’s jurisdiction.

It’s also important to know that, under current Peruvian law, marriage is defined as a union between a man and a woman. Same-sex marriages and civil unions are not legally available in Peru at this time.

 

Getting married in the registry office of a municipality

Even though notarial weddings are now possible, most couples still choose to marry at the municipal registry office where at least one partner lives.

Regulations, required documents, and procedures can vary slightly from one municipality to another and changes can happen without much notice. Therefore, your first and most important step is always to check directly with the municipality where you plan to marry. This helps avoid last-minute surprises, which could delay your wedding by weeks or even months - especially important for foreigners - and ensures your documents are accepted.

Below is a general overview of documents commonly required for a civil wedding in Peruat a registry office of a municipality .

 

Typical marriage requirements at a municipality in Peru

Most municipalities request:
  1. Marriage application form
  2. DNI / carné / passport
  3. Birth certificate
  4. Certificate of being free to marry (Certificado de soltería)
  5. Proof of domicile
  6. Prenuptial medical exam (Certificado médico prenupcial)
  7. Wittnesses
  8. If divorced: divorce certificate
  9. If widowed: death certificate of former spouse
Explanatory notes:

1. Application form

This form includes personal information about the couple and the witnesses and confirms your intention to marry. Municipalities usually provide their own format.

2. Identification

3. Birth certificate

  • Peruvians:
    Recent certified copy, often not older than 3 months (varies by municipality).
  • Foreigners:
    Original birth certificate from the home country.

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

4. Certificado de soltería

The “Certificate of being single” is an official document stating that you are single, divorced or widowed, so legally free to marry.

  • Peruvians:
  • Foreigners:
    This is often where things become a bit challenging. In many countries, such a certificate simply doesn’t exist or cannot be issued. So yes - a little creativity and patience may be required. Commonly accepted options include:
    • Affidavit at a Peruvian notary
      If you are already in Peru, first check with the municipality where you plan to marry whether they accept an affidavit signed before a Peruvian notary. If they do - great. You just visit a notary and sign the declaration. Be aware you may first need a Permit to sign contracts. This is often the quickest and easiest solution.
    • Embassy/Consulate certificate
      Another option is to contact your home country’s embassy or consulate in Peru. Many are familiar with this situation and can either:
      • issue a Certificado Consular de Soltería, or
      • notarize a sworn statement in which you declare that you are single (unmarried, divorced, or widowed).
      • Most municipalities accept these documents, but always confirm beforehand.
      • Important: Documents issued by an embassy or consulate must be legalized by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and translated if not in Spanish.
    • Document from your home country
      If the municipality does not accept the above options and you have someone back home who can help - or if you are still in your home country - check whether any government authority can issue an official document confirming your civil status. Some countries provide civil status records or similar certificates.
    • Notarized affidavit in your home country
      If none of the previous options work, you still have two possibilities:
      • Sign an affidavit before a notary public in your home country declaring that you are single (unmarried, divorced, or widowed), or
      • Request a search or confirmation from the authority responsible for marriage registrations in your country. If you have never been married, they will not find a record and can often issue a statement confirming this.

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

5. Domicile certificate

Most municipalities require that at least one partner lives in the municipality where the wedding takes place. This can be shown through:

6. Certificado médico prenupcial

Most municipalities require a medical exam, the so-called certificado médico prenupcial. It typically includes:

  • Basic health check
  • STIs/STDs counseling
  • Blood test (HIV/AIDS and other STIs/STDs)

It’s best to ask the municipality which doctor or clinic to use. Both partners must attend together. The results and the certificate are usually ready within a couple of days.

7. Witnesses

Usually, 2 witnesses are required (some municipalities ask for 4; two for the groom and two for the bride).

They should:

  • Not be family members
  • Know the couple well
  • Present valid ID (DNI, passport, carné)

Choose reliable and trustworthy people - if a witness present at paperwork submission doesn’t show up on the wedding day, the ceremony may not proceed.

8. If divorced

Additionally to above-mentioned requirements, if one or both partners are divorced proof that the previous marriage legally ended is required.

Examples:

  • Divorce decree
  • Final judgment
  • Municipal divorce resolution

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

Some municipalities impose waiting periods. Women remarrying within 300 days of divorce may need a pregnancy test.

9. If widowed

Additionally to above-mentioned requirements, if one or both partners are widowed municipalities require:

  • Death certificate of the spouse
  • Sometimes also: Former marriage certificate

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

Some municipalities require a pregnancy test if remarriage occurs within 300 days.

Using foreign documents in Peru

Any foreign document presented in Peru must meet specific formal requirements.

  • Apostille or legalization
    Foreign documents must either:
    • carry an Apostille (if the issuing country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention), or
    • be legalized (if the country is not part of the Convention)through a Peruvian consulate abroad and then the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • Translation into Spanish
    If a foreign document is not entirely in Spanish, it must be translated into Spanish by a certified translator in Peru .
    • Lists of government-approved certified translators (traductor público juramentado) are available on the Peruvian government website. There you can select the language of your original document and find translators for that language, however, mostly in Lima.
    • In some cases, the translation itself may also need legalization by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Lima or a RREE branch in the provinces.
  • Validity period (“expiration date”) of documents
    Something many foreigners don’t expect: in Peru, official documents are often only accepted for a limited time after issuance. Unless stated otherwise:
    • Documents issued in Peru are usually accepted only if issued within the last 3 months.
    • Documents issued abroad are usually accepted only if issued within the last 6 months.
 

Application process for getting married at a municipality in Peru

Once you have gathered all the required paperwork, the most demanding part is behind you and you can breathe a little easier.

The next step is to submit your documents to the municipality. Don’t forget to bring your witnesses. At this stage you also pay the fee for the civil ceremony and choose your wedding date. After submitting the paperwork, there is usually a waiting period of at least one or two weeks before the marriage can take place. If the municipality is busy, however, the next available date might be two or even three months away, so planning ahead is wise.

You can normally choose whether the civil ceremony takes place at the municipal building or at a venue of your choice, where a municipal official performs the ceremony; the latter typically involves additional costs. Many municipalities also require the couple to publish a marriage announcement in a local newspaper and to submit the full newspaper page once the announcement has been printed.

With that done, you are almost at the finish line. The final step is the civil ceremony itself. As in many countries, it is usually a simple and rather brief affair, often attended only by close family and friends. The ceremony typically lasts around 20 to 30 minutes. The official may speak about marriage as the union of two people, as well as the legal rights and responsibilities that come with it. Your main role is to listen, say “Sí, quiero” or “Sí, acepto” at the right moment - otherwise all your hard work of the last weeks or months would have been in vain - and sign the marriage certificate. If you are marrying while in Peru on a tourist status, the municipality may require a Permit to sign contracts so you can legally sign the marriage certificate.

Congratulations! You made it and are now legally married in Peru.

After the ceremony, many couples celebrate with a small lunch or a private gathering with close family and friends. Larger celebrations only follow if couples don't plan a separate religious wedding later on (see the section on Wedding reception below).

One last administrative step remains: After your wedding, your marriage must be registered with Reniec. Once registered, you can obtain the official Peruvian marriage certificate. Peruvians must then update their marital status on their DNI. If applicable, foreigners should also register their marriage with the embassy or consulate of their home country in Peru.

 

Getting married at a public notary in Peru

Besides getting married at a municipal registry office, couples in Peru can also marry at a public notary - an option available since December 2022. This alternative is open to Peruvian-Peruvian couples, Peruvian-foreigner couples, and foreign resident-foreigner couples.

In general, the required documents are similar to those requested by municipalities. However, many couples report that notarial marriages are handled more clearly and efficiently, and that the overall process is often more straightforward and faster. While a notary wedding may feel less romantic than a ceremony at the municipality, it can be a practical solution if you are short on time or facing administrative hurdles at a municipal office.

That said, procedures and document requirements are similar to the ones at municipalities and can vary slightly from one notary to another. It is therefore highly recommended to check the exact requirements with the notary where you plan to marry. Doing so helps ensure your paperwork is complete and avoids unpleasant surprises or delays.

To give you a general idea of what to expect, the following are the documents typically requested.

 

Typical marriage requirements at a public notary in Peru

Most public notaries request:
  1. Marriage application form
  2. DNI / carné / passport
  3. Birth certificate
  4. Certificate of being free to marry (Certificado de soltería)
  5. Proof of domicile
  6. Prenuptial medical exam (Certificado médico prenupcial)
  7. Wittnesses
  8. If divorced: divorce certificate
  9. If widowed: death certificate of former spouse
Explanatory notes:

1. Application form

This form includes personal information about the couple and the witnesses and confirms your intention to marry. Public notaries usually provide their own format.

2. Identification

3. Birth certificate

  • Peruvians:
    Recent certified copy, often not older than 3 months (varies by municipality).
  • Foreigners:
    Original birth certificate from the home country.

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

The “Certificate of being single” is an official document stating that you are single, divorced or widowed, so legally free to marry.

  • Peruvians:
  • Foreigners:
    This is often where things become a bit challenging. In many countries, such a certificate simply doesn’t exist or cannot be issued. While municipalities randomly accept (or often not) a "subsitute" document, notaries seem to have clearer rules. Often accepted are:
    • Certificado Consular de Soltería
      Contact your home country’s embassy or consulate in Peru. Many are familiar with the situation and can issue a Certificado Consular de Soltería (Consular Certificate of Single Status). Important: Documents issued by an embassy or consulate must be legalized by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and translated if not in Spanish.
    • Official document from your home country
      Check whether any government authority can issue an official document confirming your civil status. Some countries provide civil status records or similar certificates. If not, sign an affidavit before a notary public in your home country declaring that you are single (unmarried, divorced, or widowed). Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required)
    • Declaración jurada de estado civil
      In case you cannot get the consular certificate or an official document from your home country, talk to the notary, if they accept a Declaración jurada simple de estado civil.

5. Proof of domicile

Most public notaries require that at least one partner lives in the jurisdiction of the notary. This can be shown through:

6. Certificado médico prenupcial

Most public notaries require a medical exam, the so-called Certificado médico prenupcial. It typically includes:

  • Basic health check
  • STIs/STDs counseling
  • Blood test (HIV/AIDS and other STIs/STDs)

It’s best to ask the notary which doctor or clinic to use. Both partners must attend together. The results and the certificate are usually ready within a couple of days.

7. Witnesses

Usually, 2 witnesses are required.

They should:

  • Not be family members
  • Know the couple well
  • Present valid ID (DNI, passport, carné)

Additionally, the witnesses must sign a sworn statement declaring that they are not aware of any legal impediment to the marriage.

Choose reliable and trustworthy people - if a witness present at paperwork submission doesn’t show up on the wedding day, the ceremony may not proceed.

8. If divorced

Additionally to above-mentioned requirements, if one or both partners are divorced proof that the previous marriage legally ended is required.

Examples:

  • Divorce decree
  • Final judgment
  • Municipal divorce resolution

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

Some municipalities impose waiting periods. Women remarrying within 300 days of divorce may need a pregnancy test.

9. If widowed

Additionally to above-mentioned requirements, if one or both partners are widowed municipalities require:

  • Death certificate of the spouse
  • Sometimes also: Former marriage certificate

Don’t miss the rules for foreign documents in Peru (apostille/legalization + translation if required).

Some municipalities require a pregnancy test if remarriage occurs within 300 days.

Using foreign documents in Peru

Any foreign document presented in Peru must meet specific formal requirements.

  • Apostille or legalization
    Foreign documents must either:
    • carry an Apostille (if the issuing country is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention), or
    • be legalized (if the country is not part of the Convention)through a Peruvian consulate abroad and then the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • Translation into Spanish
    If a foreign document is not entirely in Spanish, it must be translated into Spanish by a certified translator in Peru .
    • Lists of government-approved certified translators (traductor público juramentado) are available on the Peruvian government website. There you can select the language of your original document and find translators for that language, however, mostly in Lima.
    • In some cases, the translation itself may also need legalization by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Lima or a RREE branch in the provinces.
  • Validity period (“expiration date”) of documents
    Something many foreigners don’t expect: in Peru, official documents are often only accepted for a limited time after issuance. Unless stated otherwise:
    • Documents issued in Peru are usually accepted only if issued within the last 3 months.
    • Documents issued abroad are usually accepted only if issued within the last 6 months.
 

Application process for getting married at a public notary in Peru

The process of getting married at a Peruvian notary is similar to a civil wedding at a municipal registry office, as explained above, but it is often quicker, clearer, and more organized.

The most important part is having all your required documents in order. Once everything is complete, you submit your paperwork to the notary, pay the fee for the ceremony, and choose your wedding date. Notaries are usually more flexible than municipalities when it comes to scheduling, which can save you a significant amount of time.

Most notaries require that a wedding announcement is displayed at the notary’s office and that the couple publishes a marriage announcement in a local newspaper. After publication, the full newspaper page with the announcement usually has to be submitted to the notary.

You are then almost at the finish line. The final step to becoming legally married in Peru is the ceremony itself. As in many countries around the world, it is typically a simple and rather private affair, often celebrated only with close family members and friends. The ceremony usually lasts around 20 to 30 minutes.

The notary conducting the ceremony may speak about marriage as the union of two people, as well as the legal rights and responsibilities that come with it. Your main tasks are to listen carefully, say “Sí, quiero” or “Sí, acepto” at the right moment — otherwise all your preparation of the past weeks or months would have been for nothing — and sign the marriage certificate. If you are in Peru as a tourist, the notary may require that you first obtain a Permit to sign contracts, which allows you to sign legally binding documents, including your marriage certificate.

Congratulations! You made it and are legally married in Peru.

After the ceremony, many couples celebrate with a small lunch or a private gathering with close family and friends. If there is no separate religious wedding planned, this may be followed by a larger celebration (see the section on Wedding reception below).

One last administrative step remains: After your wedding, your marriage must be registered with Reniec. Once registered, you can obtain the official Peruvian marriage certificate. Peruvians must then update their marital status on their DNI. If applicable, foreigners should also register their marriage with the embassy or consulate of their home country in Peru.

 

Religious Wedding in Peru

As mentioned above, only a civil ceremony creates a legally valid marriage in Peru. A religious wedding is optional and can only take place after the civil ceremony. Nevertheless, in Peru a church wedding is often a huge affair, the emotional and social highlight of the marriage, and many couples choose to exchange their vows in front of God, extended family, and friends as well.

Each religion has its own rules and preparation process for a religious marriage. Since around 80% of Peruvians are Catholic, the Catholic ceremony is the most common. Typically, couples are asked to present:

  • ID (DNI for Peruvians, passport or carné for foreigners)
  • Birth certificate
  • Baptismal certificate (legalized by the ecclesiastical notary of the Archdiocese)
  • Certificate of Confirmation (legalized by the ecclesiastical notary of the Archdiocese)
  • Religious pre-marriage counselling
  • 4 witnesses (2 for the groom, 2 for the bride), can’t be family
  • Official civil marriage certificate or reliable proof that the civil ceremony will take place before the religious one.
  • “La proclamación” (public announcement of the upcoming wedding, which may be made during Sunday mass, published in the parish magazine, or displayed on the parish notice board).
  • Fee or donation

For exact requirements, please get in contact with the corresponding congregation.

Unlike the civil ceremony, which is usually tied to the municipality or notary where one partner resides, a religious wedding can often be held in the church of your choice. However, popular churches and especially well-known cathedrals may have waiting lists of several months and higher fees. It’s also worth planning the logistics early, as you’ll need to arrange transportation for the wedding party between the ceremony, the reception venue, and home.

 

Wedding Reception in Peru

The religious ceremony is often followed by a large reception at one of the most beautiful or prestigious venues the couple or their families can afford. These celebrations typically feature plenty of good food, an open bar, a wedding cake, a photographer, music and dancing, and sometimes even an entertainment program with professional dancers or animators and a few party games. In short, it’s usually a lively, night-long celebration.

Many couples choose to hire a wedding planner or book a wedding package that combines catering and event services at a hotel, club, or event venue. That said, organizing all or parts of the reception yourself is absolutely doable and, if you compare options and plan carefully, you can save a fair amount along the way. Which brings us to the question many couples ask next: how much does a wedding in Peru actually cost?

 

Wedding costs in Peru

As anywhere in the world, you can celebrate a beautiful and memorable wedding in Peru on a modest budget or spend the price of a small apartment on a luxury event. There really is something for every style and wallet.

How much you end up spending depends on many factors: whether you only have a civil ceremony or also a religious wedding, if you plan a small gathering or a big party, whether you marry in your backyard or a five-star hotel, how many guests you invite, and if you organize everything yourself or hire a wedding planner, if you serve home-cooked food or use the service if an exclusive caterer. Add to this the dress and suit, rings, décor and flowers, photographer, music and entertainment, transport, accommodation for guests, and all the little extras that inevitably pop up and the final number can vary widely. The sky or better the budget you are willing to spend, your or your parents’ financial resources, savings or limit of the credit card is the limit.

In Peru, the biggest chunk of the budget usually goes to the reception venue, catering, and decoration. However, the “smaller” items - invitations, attire, rings, hair and makeup, cake, photo and video, music, entertainment, and transport - add up faster than many couples expect and shouldn’t be underestimated.

To give you a realistic idea, here are rough average ranges many couples in Peru report:

A simple civil wedding at a municipality is the most economical way to marry in Peru. Fees commonly range between US$ 40 - 400 (approx. S/ 140 - 1,400+).
On the lower end, this usually covers a standard ceremony at the municipal building on a weekday. Higher fees often apply for popular districts in Lima, weekend ceremonies, special dates, or if the official travels to an outside venue. Even at the higher end, it remains a very affordable option compared to a full wedding celebration.

A civil wedding at a public notary is typically a bit more expensive but often more flexible and faster to arrange. Costs generally fall between US$ 160 - 400+ (approx. S/ 540 - 1,400+).
Many couples choose this option for convenience, clearer procedures, and shorter waiting times. Location and demand play a role here as well. Notaries in central or high-demand districts may charge more than those in smaller cities or towns. Special dates (Valentine’s Day, symbolic calendar dates, weekends) can also push prices up, so do additional services, publications, or special scheduling.

A nice, average wedding with 50 - 100 guests often lands around US$ 8,000 - 16,000 (approx. S/ 27,000 - 54,000+).
This typically covers a good venue, catering, open bar with local drinks, music, photography, and decent décor. You can certainly do it for less with careful planning or more if you add premium options.

A larger wedding with 100 - 200 guests and a bit more luxury commonly falls between
US$ 16,000 - 40,000 (approx. S/ 54,000 - 135,000+).
At this level couples often choose upgraded venues, more elaborate décor, premium bar options, and professional coordination.

A huge or high-end wedding with 200+ guests can easily reach US$ 40,000 - 95,000+ (approx. S/ 135,000 - 320,000+) and sometimes more.
These weddings often include prestigious venues, top-tier catering, full wedding planning services, live bands or shows, luxury décor, and high-end photo and video production.

Location and season also play a role. Weddings in Lima and Cusco tend to be pricier than in smaller cities, and peak wedding season can push prices up. On the other hand, choosing an off-peak date, comparing packages, and being selective with extras can make a big difference.

In the end, there is no “right” budget. Some couples prefer an intimate celebration and invest elsewhere in their future, while others dream of a once-in-a-lifetime party with everyone they love. Both are perfectly valid. The key is to plan realistically, prioritize what truly matters to you, and avoid starting married life with financial stress.

 

Destination wedding in Peru

With its incredible diversity of landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and world-famous sights, Peru is a dream setting for couples who want more than a standard wedding. Few countries offer such a variety of backdrops for a memorable ceremony or vow renewal: saying your vows in a centuries-old colonial church, barefoot on a Pacific beach at sunset, on the grounds of a rustic hacienda or vineyard, during a traditional Andean ceremony with a Shaman in the Sacred Valley, in a five-star luxury hotel overlooking the ocean, deep in the Amazon rainforest, or even with Machu Picchu as your symbolic backdrop.

It’s easy to see why Peru has become an increasingly popular destination wedding location - the scenery is spectacular, the cultural touch adds meaning, and the experience often feels more intimate and unique than a large traditional wedding at home.

However, it’s important to understand the legal side. Nearly all of these picturesque ceremonies are symbolic only and not legally binding. For this reason, most couples first get legally married in their home country. Alternatively, if at least one partner is a legal resident of Peru, the civil marriage can be completed at a Peruvian municipality or notary before the symbolic celebration.

Once the paperwork is taken care of, couples are free to focus on the experience itself and this is where Peru truly shines. Many hotels, lodges, and specialized wedding planners offer destination wedding packages that can include ceremony setup, celebrants, flowers, photography, music, and even traditional elements such as Andean rituals or Peruvian cuisine.

A destination wedding in Peru is less about formalities and more about creating a once-in-a-lifetime memory in an extraordinary place. For many couples, it’s not just a wedding day; it’s the beginning of their story together, set against one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in the world.

 

Same-sex marriage and civil union in Peru

To this day, the Peruvian Constitution defines marriage as a stable union between a man and a woman. As a result, same-sex marriages and civil unions are currently not legally available in Peru, and same-sex marriages performed abroad are generally not recognized by Peruvian authorities.

Over the years, LGBTQ+ advocates and some public figures have repeatedly pushed for legislative change. There have also been individual court cases in which judges ruled in favor of same-sex couples seeking the recognition of their rights or foreign marriages. However, strong conservative sectors in Congress, the influential role of the Roman Catholic Church, and resistance within parts of the state apparatus have so far prevented broader legal reform.

In January 2018, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) issued an advisory opinion stating that countries that signed the American Convention on Human Rights - which Peru did - should provide legal recognition for same-sex couples, including access to marriage or equivalent institutions. At the time, this raised hopes that Peru might move toward marriage equality within a reasonable timeframe.

So far, however, no comprehensive change in national legislation has followed, and the legal situation remains unchanged.

 

Please note: LimaEasy is not a Peruvian government agency, public authority, or law firm. The information provided is based on our best knowledge and is intended as general guidance to help you understand Peruvian regulations and procedures. Regulations, requirements, and administrative practices may change at any time and without prior notice, so we recommend verifying current details with the relevant authorities before acting on this information.

And last but not least: If you notice any inaccuracies or outdated information on this page, please help us keep this guide up to date by leaving a comment below or contacting us via our contact form. Thank you for your support!

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  • This commment is unpublished.
    Jeffrey · 16/10/2025
    Hello, thank you for this page and website! It's so helpful! Do you know of translators who are on the approved list who could do a fast job at an affordable price? We contacted eight translators from the Colegio de Traductores a couple of days ago, and only heard back from one, who didn't respond after we sent PDF copies of my documents. We live in the La Molina - Ate area.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 16/10/2025
      @Jeffrey
      Hello Jeffrey,

      it depends on the original language of your documents. And unfortunately it's quite common that you never get a reply to an e-mail. Sometimes it's better to call. 

      And you don't actually need a translator from the Colegio de Traductores . Under this link on the Peruvian government website you find lists of Traductores Públicos Juramentados (sworn public translators). Just click on the language that applies and download the list. 

      Another option is to check the website of the embassy or consulate of your home country, where usually translators are recommended.

      Hope this helps.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Chad · 08/10/2025
    Thank you so much for all the information and advice here!  It helped me prepare my documents correctly. But we still had a bit of an adventure!  I hope this story is helpful to someone.

    I'm a US citizen who is marrying a Peruvian who lives in Puente Piedra district in Lima, and joining her there.  The municipal officials had several objections to documents which were correct in the eyes of everyone else.  The primary objection was to the form the US Embassy has in lieu of the Certificado de Solteria.  The form has options for single, divorced, or widowed. I checked "divorced".  At the bottom of that document it says it's used as a substitute for the Certificado de Solteria.  The clerk pointed at that word "Solteria" and the place where I checked "Divorced", and said that the document was incorrect and they would not accept it.  We called the embassy (we should have asked to speak to the American Citizen Services section), they said to contact them via their web site, got a quick email response to make another appointment (next morning!).  They said they'd like to help, but they couldn't change the form. "If you're divorced, you're single! This form is accepted everywhere." Well, not in Puente Piedra. They suggested we show the local officials their web page about the document which says that it's for single, divorced, or widowed people, or ask them to call the embassy. The clerk said "we don't do that".  When I asked if this meant I couldn't get married there, she smiled.  It wasn't just her, she spoke with her supervisor a couple of times.  She was also going to object to the fact that I gave her one document  (notarized, apostilled) that was a declaration of my address, marital status, and that I had no minor children. She said that was supposed to be 3 documents, and it was supposed to say that I did not administer the assets of any minor children.

    We checked with the only notary in Puente Piedra. Expensive, and they had to submit the documents to the same people at the municipality.  We thought about a notary in another place, but wondered about the residency requirement.

    Friends and family wound up helping. There were several suggestions of municipalities that they knew would be helpful.  We wound up going to another place that was willing to help. They took one look at the embassy document and said "yes".  "These documents are perfect", and shook his head.  Then he gave my spouse directions on how to change her address with the help of a friend or relative, and told her what else she needed to do and when to come back. That office's attitude was "Don't worry, we're here to help you."

    The embassy folks were good, but couldn't overcome this. Appointments are currently available 1 to 2 days out for early morning slots.  And you can't bring anything in! (I had go back to leave my car key fob). There's a computer and printer available in the waiting room--good help inside! Call and ask for the American Services Unit if you need to ask questions!

    We dropped everything off at Enlace translators in the center of Lima--48 hour turn around. Two copies of a birth certificate, my personal declaration, a two page divorce decree with fine print, and the embassy form for 630 soles.

    Two days became four with a lot of stress, but I think we made it.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 08/10/2025
      @Chad
      Hello Chad,

      thank you so much for sharing your experience. 

      It's such a good example how things sometimes don't work out in Peru or on how officials don't want to even though everything is perfect. So, in some cases there is nothing you can do but turn around and try somewhere else. Great that you had family and friends suggesting this and supporting you. 

      So, I hope that your wedding is soon and - if you plan to do so - the application for your family visa is smooth.

      All the best
      Eva


  • This commment is unpublished.
    Jacob · 14/07/2025
    Hello I would like to ask if you have any recommendations on a good notary who can help with fast and efficient civil marriage ? 

    My fiancée lives in Arequipa and so far all the notaries we have contacted ask for the paperwork weeks ahead the posible wedding date or have another unusual requests on paperwork (apostille domicile certificate etc)  . Which makes things very difficult especially with a limited time on tourist visa.. 

    Is it possible to get married at notary in Lima for example? Even though she is from Arequipa? 

    Every advice much appreciated 🙏
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 15/07/2025
      @Jacob
      Hello Jacob,

      sorry for getting back to you so late.

      The requirements for getting married are more or less the same at every municipality or notary in Peru. They include:

      Application form
      Passport / ID
      Birth certificate
      Certificate of being free to marry (Certificado de soltería)
      Domicile certificate 
      Medical exam (Certificado médico prenupcial)
      Witnesses

      You find explanations about the requirements above in the article.

      Additionally, documents issued outside Peru need an Apostille, so the person handling them knows they are legitimate, genuine and original. How else would a Peruvian notary or other official know, for example, that the birth certificate you submit is a true document from your home country?

      So, neither the Apostille nor the domicile certificate or any other required document is unusual. Sorry, but nothing you can do about it. 

      Your only option is to organize the documents and submit them as required by the municipality or notary. And yes, the 90 days you get as a tourist often isn't enough time to get married. If you want to marry in Peru you must come prepared. So, it might be necessary that you leave Peru and return to your home country to get the documents with Apostille and then return, submit your application, get married and if that's the plan apply for a family visa (best get your criminal record check with Apostille, which you will need for your visa application, when you are already on it as well)

      What seems unusual to me is your statement that notaries in the Arequipa area are asking for the documentation weeks in advance. Yes, there might be a waiting period, but as others shared this is usually only around 2 or 3 weeks - at least in Lima and if you present all required documents. One of our readers even managed to get married within a bit over a week, but he and his fiancée came prepared. 

      Generally, yes you as well can get married in Lima or elsewhere in Peru, however only if the municipality or notary is willing to marry you.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Michael · 21/06/2025
    Hello, a question about the Affidavit of Single Status. The US Embassy in Lima provides one that can be notarized for a fee. After the notarization, is an apostille needed in addition to a translation or is notarizing the same as apostilling? Is it better to get the affidavit apostilled just in case?
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 21/06/2025
      @Michael
      Hello Michael,

      the only one who can answer your questions is the municipality/notary where you plan to marry. The staff there decide if they accept the document or not.

      Usually it's enough to have the notarization done and then get it translated by an official translator. 

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Kuba · 18/06/2025
    Hello Sunflower,

    Firstly thank you very much for all the amazing work you do! 

    I have a question regarding the Birth certificate - if I understand it correctly, we handle the apostilled document to the municipality and then they keep it right ? Can it be apostilled copy or duplicate of Birth certificate?  I would rather keep the original to myself. Thank you 🙏
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 18/06/2025
      @Kuba
      Hello Kuba,

      if you apply for a birth certificate in your home country, you will get an excerpt from the register of birth; so, in fact you don't get the original, you get a copy of your birth certificate. This must be apostilled in the country where it was issued and then translated into Spanish by an official translator in Peru. And yes, usually you hand in this "copy" of your birth certificate; and yes, they keep it. 

      If you only have one, I can understand that you want to keep it. But be aware that at least in Peru it will only be accepted within 6 month of being issued. Strange, I know, but documents have an "expiration" date in Peru. If not otherwise stated: Documents issued in Peru are usually only accepted when they were issued a maximum of 3 months prior to being submitted; documents issued outside Peru are usually only accepted when they were issued not more than 6 months prior to being submitted.

      Anyway, if you don't want to hand in your only birth certificate, you should talk to the municipality/notary where you plan to marry. You could explain that this is the only "copy" of your birth certificate and it's hard/impossible to get a new one. You could ask if they accept a notarized copy made by a notary in Peru of it or if it's possible that you get the document back, once your are married.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Levito · 03/06/2025
    Hello, 

    Does one overstaying their tourist visa impact their ability to marry in Peru? There are a number of Peruvian lawyers who say something like that in videos about how to get married in Peru. But I haven’t read anything about that on your posts so I was surprised they claim. 

    So just to be more specific, I have overstayed my days, paid the fine, returned a few weeks later and am still currently overstaying (by quite a bit). 

    Other unrelated question, have you heard of westerners who overstay their tourist visa repeatedly and are actually denied entry at Migraciones? So far I have only met people who have paid the fine and been let back in. And honestly I am just skeptical that the worker at migraciones will look at you and tell you no you are not able to enter Peru if you present yourself reasonably well. 

    Thanks so much for all the info you post! 

    Levi
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 03/06/2025
      @Levito
      Hello Levito,

      In general, yes, you could get married when you are overstaying your time as a tourist. However, it always depends on the municipality/notary where you marry. 

      The application form and the marriage certificate, which you both must sign, are official documents. Peru requires that foreign tourists can only sign legally binding documents  after having applied for a special permit, the so-called “Permiso especial para firmar contratos” or also known as "Permiso especial para suscribir documentos”. When you are in the country as a tourist and don't have the special permit, when you sign, officially, the document is null and void, could be contested and, if you have to present it at a Peruvian authority, could be not accepted. While applying for the permit is a quick and easy process, you must be in the country on a valid stay. So, if your stay as a tourist is expired, you cannot get the permit. 

      So, if you find a municipality/notary, which doesn't request the permit to sign documents, and if you have all other required documents from your home country with Apostille, then you could get married in Peru even though your stay as a tourist is expired. 

      But be aware that even when you manage to get married you remain in the country on an expired stay as a tourist. And with your "irregular" immigration status, in most cases you cannot apply for a family visa. So, if your plan is to apply for a family visa you most probably have to leave Peru and return. 

      And yes, I heard of a few foreigners, who excessively overstayed, and when leaving the country not only had to pay the overstay fine but also got a re-entry ban for a year or two. I as well know a few, who (excessively) overstayed, but could leave the country after having paid the fine with no problems, but were denied re-entry, when they tried to return weeks/months later. 

      It's always at the discretion of the immigration officer you have to face how he/she evaluates you/your travel history/whatever and if he/she let's you enter and how many days he/she is willing to allow you to stay. In some cases being married to a Peruvian, having the marriage certificate and stating that you want to apply for a resident visa, might help convincing the immigration officer to let you return.

      All the best
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Millie · 26/05/2025
    Hi Sunflower, I was just wondering if you know if, when you are given options of a wedding date it is possible to choose a wedding date 6 month to 1 year later? 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 26/05/2025
      @Millie
      Hello Millie,

      I doubt that a municipality or notary will allow you to choose a wedding date 6 months or even a year after you submitted all your documents. But you never know, so, best check with the municipality or notary where you want to get married, directly. They are the only ones that can give you an answer and/or make it possible.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Arlis Mongold · 19/02/2025
    for what it's worth, I plan on getting married at a notary in Barranco in Lima and today they told me I do not need a domicile paper of any type. 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 19/02/2025
      @Arlis Mongold
      Hello Arlis,

      thank you so much for sharing your experience.

      The requirements mentioned above may vary. So, great that you don't need the domicile certificate; one document less to worry about.

      I hope everything works out and you have a greet wedding day.

      All the best.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Kush · 07/12/2024

    Can two foreigners get married in Peru?

    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 08/12/2024
      @Kush
      Hello Kush,

      if you want to celebrate your civil wedding in Peru at least one partner must be a resident.

      If you want to marry in church or have another form of "marriage" celebration, it depends on the church or shaman, etc.

      Greetings
      Eva

  • This commment is unpublished.
    Daniel Bloomfield · 12/06/2024
    Hi. I'm actually going to get married in Peru after living there for 5 years with my Peruvian girlfriend. I'm on a work visa - which required a criminal/interpol check when I applied. I noticed in your article about getting married in Peru, you did not mention a criminal background check - however someone else told me it's necessary to get married. Is it? Even if I already did it to get my carnet extranjera? Thank you!
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 12/06/2024
      @Daniel Bloomfield
      Hello Daniel,

      I don't know who this someone is, but no, you usually do not need a criminal record check to get married in Peru. It's not on the official requirement list and is - as far as I know - never required by a municipality or a notary.

      However, you will need a current criminal record check if you want to apply for the family visa after getting married, so if you plan to make a cambio de calidad migratoria in your case from trabajador to familiar then you will need among other requirements,  which are listed in our extensive Family Visa article, a new criminal record check with Apostille and a new Ficha de Canje from Interpol.

      All the best.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    robin · 03/06/2024
    Hi Sunflower,

    Thank you soo much for the tips. everything worked perfectly with the steps you said. i did the steps and to be honest. We could have married in less then 2 weeks after ariving.  the city where we married was not the hardest with the papers.  we made of everything 2 copys  in case of but we decied to marry  25th of may. The only thing we where a little bit suprised about was how much taxi did cost for the person that married us in civil way it was around 30 Solos but we had too pay 150. And a good tip for people that marry civil way but not in the city hall. if they say 5 o clock dont expect they will be there 5 the person from the city hall arrived 5:30
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 04/06/2024
      @robin
      Hello Robin,

      Congrats in your marriage! And thanks for sharing your experience.

      I'm happy to hear that for you the process was straightforward and so quick.

      Wishing you two all the best for your life together.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Nick · 28/05/2024
    Hello

    I have a question about the certificate of singleness and the birth certificate. After I get the documents apostilled I was planning on getting a translation done, would I need the translated copies apostilled? 

    Thanks 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 28/05/2024
      @Nick
      Hello Nick,

      you surely won't need another Apostille, but in some rare cases the municipality or notary, where you marry, wants an authentication of the translation from the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (RREE). You should ask them about the exact (!) requirements.

      But usually an additional authentication is not required. So, if you have an Apostille, which must be done in the country where the document was issued, and a translation from a certified translator in Peru (do not get your documents translated abroad !!!) you should be fine and won't need an additional authentication from RREE.

      Greetings
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Mark · 25/03/2024
    Hi Eva,

    Just want to say thank you very much for for your advice. I got married in Lima a week ago in a notary you recommended. I am from Ireland and my Peruvian wife and I are planning on applying for a visa for Ireland. If you know of any other Peruvian Irish couples, please let us know of their experience with visa application 😊? 
    By the way, do you know how long it takes to get a wedding certificate after a marriage? 

    Thanks, 
    Mark 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 25/03/2024
      @Mark
      Hello Mark,

      So good hearing from you again. I'm so happy that getting married at a notary in the end worked out.

      And, of course, congratulations.

      Unfortunately, I don't know any Irish-Peruvian couples. Sorry. Have you tried social media? When I remember correctly, there is a group on Facebook called Irish in Peru. Or try to ask in one of the Expats in Peru groups; probably someone there can share his/her experience.

      Not 100% sure how the notary handled it, but either you got a document (the "acta") with which you must register your marriage at Reniec or the notary forwards the documentation and the marriage is automatically registered.

      Either way, it is better and quicker if you personally register your marriage at Reniec. It depends on the Reniec office, but it can take anything between 10 and 20 business days (or sometimes even longer) until the marriage is registered and your wife can download a certified copy of your Peruvian marriage certificate.

      All the best
      Eva

  • This commment is unpublished.
    Mark · 21/02/2024
    Hi there, my fiancée is Peruvian and I am living in Europe. We are planning to get married in Peru. We already have gone to a well respected notary in Lima, however the notary have let us down. They accepted all of our documentation but refused, for some reason, to confirm a wedding date for us. It is really confusing and we do not understand the behavior of the notary. Anyway, can someone recommend a notary in Lima please? 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 21/02/2024
      @Mark
      Hello Mark,

      that's really strange. Never heard of something like this.

      You said that "for some reason" the notary refuses to confirm a wedding date. What are the reasons? Have you specifically ask why or where the problem is? Maybe you just have to wait a week or two until the publishing period of the Edicto Matrimonial is over? Or one of the documents you submitted isn't in order? Or the notary is on holidays for the next two weeks and no-one in the office can fix a specific date? Or whatever?

      Anyway, I can't recommend any notary but I heard that Jorge Gonzales, Jr. Miller in Lince and Rosalia Mejia, Av. Panama in Barranco are performing many marriages and seem to know what they are doing.

      Wishing you all the best

      Greetings
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Mark · 22/02/2024
      @Sunflower Thanks Eva. We will contact one of the Notaries you referenced.
      It seems that the Notary was busy and so could not confirm a date. It is unfortunate because we feel we wasted time waiting for the notary to confirm. Finally, yesterday the notary just told us to go to a different notary. My fiancée and I do not understand why we were just not told this from the start. Surely the notary had a schedule and knew when she was busy originally not busy. Instead, they accepted all of our documentation and kept us waiting. Anyway, we have to move on and look for a new notary. Thank you for your response. 
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 22/02/2024
      @Mark
      Unbelievable. As said before, I never heard of something like this. Usually, getting married at a notary is much easier and way quicker than dealing with a municipality.

      Hope with another notary things go smoothly and you can soon get married.

      Greetings
      Eva
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Mark · 23/02/2024
      @Sunflower Thanks again. By the way, I may have to do two visits to Peru within the space of a few months. One visit to submit the marriage documents and a second visit maybe two months later for the ceremony. Is this allowed by the Peru border immigration authorities do you know? I am from ireland.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 23/02/2024
      @Mark
      Hello Mark,

      if you haven't already stayed in Peru for 183 days over the past 365 days, you shouldn't have a problem.

      And if the immigration officer asks just tell him/her that you visit to submit the documents to get married / to get married to the love of your life. You should be fine.

      All the best
      Eva
  • This commment is unpublished.
    Natalja · 23/01/2024
    Hello! Maybe you could help me with some information regarding changing last name after getting married? Is it mandatory for a woman to keep her last name as part of her new last name when she gets married? Is it in any way possible to keep her husband's 1st part of the last name only? e.g. she is Maria MENDEZ GARCIA, he is Jose REYNA GONZALEZ. Can she be only Maria REYNA, not Maria MENDEZ GARCIA de REYNA. I'm from Estonia and I'm currently in the process of changing my last name to my husband's last name who is Peruvian (we've been married for 17 years but I kept my maiden name at that time). Now I want to take my husband's last name but only the first part of it. Today I was informed by the Civil Status Office that I'd have to take both of his last names unless in Peru/by Peruvian law it is allowed to keep only 1. If there is any proof that it is allowed in Peru, I'd really appreciate if you could let me know, so I could share this with the Civil Status Office. They have also started a research on their side (don't know how long it would take) but I hope to get some information as soon as I can.
    • This commment is unpublished.
      Sunflower
      • LimaEasy
      · 24/01/2024
      @Natalja
      Hello Natalja,

      in Peru, women never ever even would consider taking their husband's last name. They keep their first (father's) and second (mother's) last name and if at all add "de" and the their husband's first (father's) last name.

      If you take your husband's first last name you are considered his half-sister (farther the same but mother unknown as you don't have a second last name); if you take both of your husband's names you are considered his sister with the same father and mother.

      I'm from Europe and married my Peruvian husband there and was stupid enough to take my husband's first last name as common where I'm from. In Peru, I'm now considered his half sister and had lots of problems getting our marriage registered. And getting the last names of our children sorted out was a nightmare.

      Honestly, if you are planning to move back to Peru I highly recommend keep your name.

      And I don't know, if there is somewhere a regulation or law specifying the name rules for married women in Peru, never heard of it, but as said above, women in Peru keep their names.

      Sorry, I couldn't help.

      Greetings
      Eva

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