Vegas Weddings: Legal In Canada?

Las Vegas is known for its quick and easy marriage process, attracting couples from all over the world who want to tie the knot in a unique and exciting way. But are Vegas weddings legal in Canada? In short, yes—as long as the marriage follows the legal requirements of both Las Vegas and Canada. This means that individuals getting married must meet the legal age requirements of both locations, provide their full and free consent, and adhere to other conditions. For example, both parties must not be related, and they must not already be married to someone else.

Getting a marriage license in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known for its quick and easy marriage process, attracting couples from all over the world. If you're planning a wedding in Sin City, here's a step-by-step guide to obtaining your marriage license:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you begin the process, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements to get married in Nevada. Both parties must be at least 18 years old (or 17 with parental consent and a court order). You must not be nearer in kin than second cousins, and you must not already have a living husband or wife. These requirements apply to both US citizens and non-citizens.

Step 2: Preregister for Your Marriage License (Optional)

Although not mandatory, you can save time by preregistering for your Clark County marriage license up to 60 days before your wedding. Use your legal names as they appear on your government-issued IDs, and double-check the spelling to avoid corrections later. You can preregister by clicking the link provided on the Clark County website.

Step 3: Go to the Las Vegas Marriage License Bureau

Within 60 days of preregistering, both parties must go to the Las Vegas Marriage License Bureau in person to pick up the license. The bureau is located in the Regional Justice Center in Downtown Las Vegas and is open daily from 8 am to midnight. No appointment is necessary, but there may be a wait time, especially if you haven't preregistered. Bring valid government-issued photo IDs, such as a driver's license, passport, military ID, or foreign country-issued ID card. The marriage license costs $102, payable by cash or credit card.

Step 4: Get Married!

With your marriage license in hand, you're now ready to tie the knot! Your marriage license is valid for one year from the date of issuance, and the ceremony must be performed in Nevada by an officiant licensed in the state. You will need at least one witness for the wedding ceremony, in addition to the officiant. After the ceremony, the officiant has ten days to file the wedding paperwork with the Clark County clerk.

Step 5: Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Marriage Certificate

Once your marriage is officially filed, you can order a certified copy of your marriage certificate online or in person. The marriage certificate costs $20 for each certified copy. If you're an international couple, you may also need an Apostille, which can be obtained from the Nevada Secretary of State's Office.

Recognition in Canada

If you're a Canadian citizen or resident, rest assured that your Las Vegas marriage will be recognized in Canada. According to the Canadian government, marriages legally performed in another country are generally recognized in Canada. However, it's important to ensure that you meet the legal age requirements of both Las Vegas and Canada, provide full and free consent to the marriage, and comply with the laws of Las Vegas. Additionally, you may need to register your marriage and obtain a marriage license in Canada, depending on the specific circumstances.

Legal age of consent

The legal age of consent for marriage in Canada is 16 years, with some conditions. This means that a person must be at least 16 years old to be able to legally agree to a marriage. The age of consent is set at the federal level, but provinces and territories can set a minimum age higher than that. For example, in Alberta, the age of consent is 18 years, but with the consent of all parents and legal guardians, it can be as low as 16. In British Columbia, the minimum age is 19, but 16-year-olds can marry with parental consent.

In Canada, the age of majority is set by province or territory at 18 or 19, so minors under this age have additional restrictions, such as requiring parental and court consent. For example, in Saskatchewan, a 16-year-old can marry with the consent of their parents or guardians, but if the parents refuse, the minor can apply to a judge for an order overriding this decision.

It is important to note that before 2015, it was possible for children younger than 16 to marry in some jurisdictions in Canada, with parental consent or a court order. The absolute minimum marriageable age was raised to 16 in 2015, and now any marriages of individuals under 16 are considered a criminal offence.

In addition to age requirements, there are other legal requirements for marriage in Canada. Both parties must freely consent to the marriage. Forcing someone to marry is a criminal offence. The individuals getting married must not already be married to someone else, and they must not be too closely related, including parent-child, grandparent-grandchild, and sibling relationships.

Marital status

Firstly, it is important to understand that Las Vegas weddings are indeed legally recognised in Canada. According to the Canadian government, marriages performed in a foreign country are generally considered valid in Canada. This means that as long as the legal requirements of both Las Vegas and Canada are met, the marriage will be legally binding. These requirements include adhering to the legal age of consent, which is typically 18 years of age or older, and providing full and free consent to the marriage by both parties.

To obtain a marriage license in Las Vegas, couples can take advantage of the streamlined process offered by the Clark County Marriage License Bureau. By filling out preliminary forms online and presenting valid government-issued identification, such as a driver's license or passport, couples can obtain their marriage license without a waiting period. This license is a crucial step in ensuring the legality of the marriage.

It is worth noting that there may be additional requirements for foreign citizens wishing to get married in Las Vegas. For example, visas may be necessary for non-Canadian citizens. It is essential to research and understand the specific requirements beforehand to ensure a smooth process.

Once the marriage is solemnised in Las Vegas, it is generally recognised as a legal union in Canada. However, there may be instances where additional steps are required. For example, if the marriage certificate is in a language other than English, it may need to be translated before being registered with Canadian authorities. Additionally, some provinces in Canada may have specific requirements, so it is advisable to consult local laws or seek legal advice to ensure compliance with all necessary regulations.

Overall, Las Vegas weddings are legally recognised in Canada, provided that the legal requirements of both jurisdictions are met. Couples should be diligent in understanding the specific laws and regulations governing marriages in both locations to ensure their union is valid and recognised in their home country.

Validating your marriage in Canada

If you're a Canadian planning to get married in Las Vegas, you might be wondering if your marriage will be legally recognised when you return home. The good news is that, according to the Government of Canada, marriages that are legally performed in a foreign country are usually valid in Canada. Here are some key things to keep in mind to ensure your marriage is legally valid in Canada:

Legal Requirements:

Firstly, ensure that your marriage meets the legal requirements of both Las Vegas and Canada. This includes adhering to the legal age requirements and obtaining the necessary marriage license. In Las Vegas, you can obtain a marriage license from the Clark County Marriage License Bureau with valid government-issued identification, such as a driver's license or passport. There is no waiting period, and the process can be completed in a single day.

Consent and Free Will:

Both parties must be consenting adults and must provide their full and free consent to the marriage. This means that you must be of legal age, not already married, and not closely related to your partner.

Recognition in Canada:

Upon returning to Canada, you do not need to register your marriage or take any additional steps for it to be recognised. However, if your marriage certificate is in a language other than English, you may need to have it translated before presenting it to Canadian authorities.

Documentation:

Make sure to keep all relevant documentation, including your marriage certificate and license. These documents may be required for various purposes, such as changing your name or filing taxes.

Visa Requirements:

If you or your partner are not Canadian citizens, you may need to obtain a visa to enter the United States. Check the requirements for your specific situation and plan accordingly.

Residency Requirements:

Some countries have residency requirements that must be met before a marriage can be performed. Although the United States does not have such a requirement, be aware of this when planning your wedding.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Las Vegas wedding is legally recognised in Canada and avoid any potential complications. Congratulations and best wishes on your special day!

Obtaining a marriage certificate

To obtain a marriage certificate, you must first ensure that your marriage is legally recognised in the respective country. In the case of Canadians getting married in Las Vegas, the marriage must comply with the legal requirements of both Las Vegas and Canada. Here are the steps to obtain a marriage certificate:

• Meet the legal age requirements: Both parties must be at least 18 years old and provide proof of age with a valid government-issued photo ID.
• Obtain a marriage license: Apply for a marriage license from the Clark County Marriage License Bureau in Las Vegas. The cost of the license is $102 in cash or $105.29 with a credit/debit card. Both parties must be present and provide their IDs.
• Find a licensed officiant: The marriage ceremony must be performed in Nevada by an officiant licensed in the state. The officiant will complete and submit the marriage certificate after the ceremony.
• Provide necessary documents: Along with the marriage license, both parties must present their IDs to the officiant before the ceremony.
• Have a witness: Someone other than the officiant must witness the vows being exchanged.
• Obtain a certified copy of the marriage certificate: After the officiant submits the marriage certificate, you can purchase a certified copy as proof of marriage. This typically costs $20.
• Register the marriage in Canada: To ensure the marriage is legally recognised and binding in Canada, register it with the appropriate authorities.
• Provide additional certifications if required: Some countries may require additional certifications, such as an apostille from the Nevada Secretary of State. Contact the Canadian consulate office in the US to inquire about any specific requirements.

By following these steps, Canadians can obtain a marriage certificate for their Las Vegas wedding, ensuring that their marriage is legally recognised in Canada.

Frequently asked questions