The law in Monaco states that you or your partner must be a resident of Monaco for at least 30 days prior to the marriage. You may be required to show proof of residency (such as an electric bill, a receipt of rent paid, etc.) when applying for a marriage license.

Because of this law, most people who have their heart set on a wedding in Monaco (but not planning on moving to Monaco) choose to have a vow renewal ceremony instead. The couple may have a small private ceremony before a judge in their hometown, and then travel to Monaco with their wedding party and guests for another ceremony. Most of the time, the bride and groom (and the officiant) are the only people who know that the ceremony is a vow renewal and not the real deal. This way, you can still have your dream wedding in romantic Monaco, but you can also avoid the residency requirements and the extensive amount of paperwork, rules, and regulations.

In some cases, such as if you or your partner is a resident of Monaco, and you wish to obtain a marriage license, here are a few of the requirements for a marriage in Monaco:

  • Every wedding must be preceded by publication of banns by mean of an announcement.
  • This announcement will be posted on the door of the Town Hall for a period of 10 days, which must include two Sundays.

The following documents must be submitted when applying for a marriage licence:

  • Certified Birth Certificates
  • If previously married, a certified copy of the final divorce decree, or death certificate if previous marriage ended due to death of spouse.
  • Translation of foreign documents submitted, being countersigned by the consuls of the country or countries of which the couple to be married are subjects
  • Certificate of publication of the marriage banns For more detailed information, contact the Town Hall of the principality where the wedding will be held.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Consular Representatives in Canada
1111 Melville St, Suite 500
Vancouver, BC V6E 4H7
Tel: 604-682-4633 Fax: 604-684-0015

Monaco Government Tourist Office
565 Fifth Ave, 23rd Fl.
New York, NY. 10017
Tel: 212-286-3330 Fax: 212-286-9890