How to get married in Las Vegas

Las Vegas has redefined itself to be a world-class destination – sexy, chic and fun – and in many ways, the perfect place to get married in the United States.

Nevada's relaxed licence laws, with no waiting period and no blood tests, has helped to give Las Vegas a reputation as the wedding capital of the world, and certainly the easiest (and quickest) place to get married in the United States.


Las Vegas Marriage Requirements

Marriages performed in Las Vegas are internationally recognised and legally binding.


Residency Requirement

There is no residency requirement.


Marriage Licence

Marriage Licence requirements are the same for U.S. citizens and non U.S. citizens are the same. You will both need to be present in order to obtain the licence from the Marriage Bureau. There are no blood tests or waiting periods – the marriage license will be issued immediately.


Required Documents

Ensure that all documents are in your legal name, and provide affidavits in cases where you are known by another name. Originals of all documentation are required. If you’re unable to obtain an original Decree Absolute / Death Certificate you may provide a certified true copy. All documents must be in English; if not, they must be translated and notarized.

Documents required for a legal wedding in Las Vegas, include…

  • Marriage Licence Application
  • Valid 10-year Passport
  • Birth Certificate
  • Decree Absolute bearing a seal of the Court of Divorce, if either party is divorced
  • Death Certificate of deceased spouse, if either party is widowed
  • Parental consent if either party is under 18 years of age
  • Two witnesses are required for the ceremony

The marriage licence application is valid for one year from the date of issue, provided the ceremony is performed in any Wedding Chapel, Church or the Civil Marriage Commissioner's Office, by an authorised person.

To speed things up, simply use the online marriage licence pre-application process. You'll receive a reference a number to bring to the Marriage License Bureau's 'express lane' along with your ID/documentation. (Details below.)

After obtaining your marriage license, all you need to do is take it to your chosen venue with a licenced officiant, and get married!


Marriage Certificate

After the marriage ceremony you will receive a signed souvenir certificate of marriage to take home, and another copy will be filed with the County Clerk.

For proof of marriage, you will need to obtain a certified copy of your Marriage Certificate from Las Vegas Wedding Bureau.

Allow between two to three working days for the Wedding Bureau to obtain a certified copy of the marriage license. You can collect this by visiting in person, or by requesting it be mailed to your home address.


Wedding Chapels

There are literally hundreds of Wedding Chapels. Some have a theme, some are drive-through and some are very upscale. Upscale chapels are often found in resorts and may require a reservation. To find one, ask at your hotel, or simply drive up and down the Las Vegas Strip.


Apostille of Marriage Certificate

European Union citizens (except the United Kingdom and Ireland) may need to have their Registered Marriage Certificate apostilled (or authenticated).

This does not apply to citizens of United States, Canada, Australia or New Zealand. Citizens of Asian countries, South and Central America should check with their Civil Registrar/Marriage Officer as to whether an apostille is required for your country.

If required, the Nevada Secretary of State can send the Apostille directly to your government for you.


Fees

Marriage Licence – USD$77
Certified Marriage Certificate – USD$15
Apostille from the Nevada Secretary of State – USD$20


Wedding Planners

Many chapel and hotel wedding planners can assist you with the process as part of a package deal.

Further information: Speed things up with an online marriage pre-application from the Clark County website. Or visit the Las Vegas Marriage Bureau, 201 Clark Ave., Las Vegas, Nevada 89155-1603. Hours: 8am to midnight (daily).


Best time to visit Las Vegas

Weatherwise, the best time to visit Las Vegas is during spring and autumn, from mid-March to April, and from mid-October to mid-November, so avoiding the intense summer heat as well as the winter cold spell.

For excursions to the Death Valley desert, or skiing in the Spring Mountains, the best time is from November to March.

Of course, Las Vegas is a year-round destination.

For more climate info: Las Vegas weather guide


Please note: while accurate at time of publication this information is for guidance purposes only and liable to change without notice. Please check with your wedding planner at your resort of choice or the relevant embassy of the country in which you intend to marry for up-to-date details before your wedding.


Latest update: How to get married in Las Vegas: 21 June, 2024



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