In the aftermath of a global pandemic the way we do things has changed. Going to a concert, getting married, dealing with sickness, etc. 

As we are now getting back into full fledged travel and destination weddings are attainable again, it’s important to remember there are still restrictions we need to be aware of in order for everything to run smoothly. 

If you want to get married in Puerto Rico then you will need to be aware of their specific wedding requirements. Thankfully, you don’t need to go searching because you can find them right here. 

Puerto Rico Wedding Requirements

If you and your partner are NON-RESIDENTS of Puerto Rico you must have: 

Official birth certificate (and a photocopy). Passports do not count. 

As a US resident, you do not need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico but it will not count in place of a birth certificate, so dig through those dusty files at home or go down to the town hall where you were born to ask for a copy. 

Official ID and a photocopy.

Usually this would be your drivers license, but if you do not have a drivers license than a state ID or your passport would work in this case. You will also need to bring a photocopy. Make sure to keep the actual ID and photocopies in different places, such as different luggages, incase anything were to get lost or delayed.

Divorce decree of all previous marriages

Not your first marriage? No judgement here! If it isn’t, don’t let this one requirement throw everything off. And if this does not apply to you then you have nothing to worry about.

Lab test*

These lab tests for Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Syphilis & HIV and need to be done within 14 days of the wedding within the United States. Let’s say your wedding is on August 24th. We recommend you do the Labs on August 8th or later. It is important we have the results 10 days before the ceremony (less than that could delay the process). In the example above, August 15 is the day we should have the labs. Labs should be done within the United States. Technically they can be done in Puerto Rico as well but as it takes from 24-48 hours to be ready, couple would have to make sure they arrive to Puerto Rico with plenty of time. Cost to do that in PR is approximately $300 per couple. You must arrive with plenty of time before if doing the test here.

Medical certification

This is to be performed by a Doctor in Puerto Rico on your arrival before the wedding.

Of course please be aware of any other requirements from your specific vendors, hotels, caterers, or anyone else associated with your wedding to make it run smoothly for you, and those helping you.

To learn more about specific marriage requirements in Puerto Rico, contact us so we can put you in touch with our recommended wedding ministers and officiants that can properly legalize your wedding. Make sure to be aware of the policies before you get on the plane!