Getting Married in Mazatlán Mexico

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Is Same-Sex Marriage Legal in Mazatlán?

Yes. Same-sex marriage is legal in Mazatlán and throughout the state of Sinaloa. Sinaloa legalized marriage equality in 2021, and same-sex couples can marry through the civil registry system just like opposite-sex couples.    Mazatlán has become a popular destination for LGBTQ+ weddings, including couples traveling from the United States, Canada, and other countries.

 

Step 1: Understand the Legal Marriage Requirement

In Mexico, only a civil marriage performed by the Civil Registry (Registro Civil) creates a legally recognized marriage. A religious or symbolic ceremony alone is not legally binding.

 

Many destination weddings in Mazatlán are a civil ceremony (legal marriage) with a  beach, resort, or symbolic celebration afterward

 

Step 2: Documents Typically Required

For foreign couples marrying in Mazatlán, you will generally need:

 

Identification

• Valid passports

• Tourist entry form (FMM) or other immigration documentation

 

Birth Certificates

• Original or certified copies

• Apostille certification

• Certified Spanish translation if not already in Spanish

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Proof of Marital Status

If applicable:

• Divorce decree

• Death certificate of former spouse

• Documents must usually be apostilled and translated

 

Medical Requirements

Many municipalities in Mexico still require:

• Prenuptial medical certificate

• Blood tests performed in Mexico

• Screening commonly includes blood type, HIV, and syphilis testing

Requirements can vary by municipality, so verify directly with the Mazatlán Civil Registry before booking.

 

Witnesses

Usually:

• Two to four adult witnesses

• Government-issued identification required

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Before Traveling

• Obtain certified birth certificates

• Get apostilles

• Arrange certified Spanish translations if needed

 

Arrive in Mazatlán

Many wedding coordinators recommend arriving at least 2–3 business days before the ceremony to complete medical testing and document review.

 

Submit Documents

Your wedding coordinator or the Civil Registry reviews:

• Passports

• Birth certificates

• Medical documents

• Witness information

 

Civil Ceremony

A Civil Registry official performs the legal marriage.

 

Marriage Certificate

You receive an official Mexican marriage certificate that can generally be recognized internationally after obtaining any required apostilles.

 

Practical Checklist

✅ Valid passports
✅ Birth certificates
✅ Apostilles
✅ Certified Spanish translations (if needed)
✅ Tourist entry documents (FMM)
✅ Divorce/death records (if applicable)
✅ Medical exam and blood tests in Mexico
✅ Witnesses with identification
✅ Civil Registry appointment