Florida Nuptials: Non-Resident Wedding Guide [Must Read]
Planning Florida nuptials as a non-resident involves understanding specific state regulations. The marriage license, a critical document, has unique requirements for out-of-state applicants. Securing a venue, such as a beautiful beachfront resort, requires early booking, considering the high demand for destination weddings. A qualified wedding officiant familiar with Florida law ensures legal compliance throughout the ceremony. This comprehensive guide outlines the crucial steps for getting married in florida for non residents, helping you navigate the process smoothly and create a memorable celebration.
Image taken from the YouTube channel The Reeves Family , from the video titled How to get married in Florida .
Florida Nuptials: A Guide for Non-Resident Weddings
Planning a wedding is exciting, but doing it from afar adds a layer of complexity. If you're dreaming of saying "I do" under the Florida sun, this guide is for you. We'll cover everything you need to know about getting married in Florida for non-residents.
Understanding Florida's Marriage Laws
Before you start booking venues and florists, it's important to understand Florida's legal requirements for marriage. This section breaks down the essential rules.
Residency Requirements
- No Residency Requirement: Good news! Florida does not require you to be a resident to get married there. This significantly simplifies the process for out-of-state couples.
Age Requirements
- 18 Years or Older: Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent.
- 16-17 Years Old: If either applicant is 16 or 17, they need written consent from a parent or legal guardian. Further restrictions may apply. Those under 16 generally cannot be married in Florida.
Identification Requirements
- Valid Photo ID: You'll need a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID card.
- Social Security Number: You will also need to provide your Social Security number, if you have one. Non-US citizens without a social security card will need to affirm that they do not have one on the marriage license application.
Previous Marriages
- Proof of Dissolution: If either party has been previously married, you must provide documentation proving the marriage ended (divorce decree, annulment, or death certificate).
Blood Tests
- No Blood Tests Required: Florida does not require blood tests for marriage license applicants.
Obtaining a Marriage License in Florida
Getting your marriage license is a crucial step. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Apply in Person: Both you and your partner must apply for a marriage license in person at any Florida county clerk's office. It does not need to be the county where the wedding will take place.
- Complete the Application: You will fill out an application providing the necessary information (names, addresses, dates of birth, etc.).
- Provide Documentation: Present your valid photo IDs and Social Security numbers (if applicable). If you were previously married, provide proof of dissolution.
- Waiting Period (Sometimes): Florida has a three-day waiting period for Florida residents. However, this waiting period is waived for non-residents. You can get married immediately after obtaining your license.
- License Fee: There is a fee for the marriage license, which varies slightly by county. Expect to pay around $86.00, but confirm the current fee with the county clerk's office beforehand. Payment methods accepted may vary.
- License Validity: The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.
Choosing the Perfect Florida Wedding Location
Florida offers a diverse range of wedding locations, from beaches to ballrooms.
Beach Weddings
- Pros: Beautiful scenery, romantic atmosphere, natural backdrop.
- Cons: Weather dependency, potential crowds, permit requirements for some beaches.
Hotel and Resort Weddings
- Pros: Convenient amenities, on-site catering, professional event staff.
- Cons: Can be more expensive, may lack personalized touches.
Garden and Outdoor Weddings
- Pros: Lush greenery, intimate setting, customizable décor.
- Cons: Weather dependency, need for pest control, potential noise restrictions.
Unique Venues
- Consider museums, historic estates, or even boats for a memorable celebration.
Permit Requirements
- Check with the city or county regarding permit requirements for beach weddings or other public spaces.
Hiring Wedding Vendors
Finding reliable vendors is key to a smooth wedding day.
Planners
- Why Hire One? A local wedding planner can be invaluable in navigating Florida's wedding scene, especially when planning from out of state. They can help with vendor selection, contract negotiation, and logistics.
Photographers and Videographers
- Book Early: Popular photographers and videographers book up quickly, so reserve your date well in advance.
- Review Portfolios: Carefully review their portfolios to ensure their style aligns with your vision.
Florists
- Seasonal Flowers: Discuss seasonal flower options with your florist to save money and ensure availability.
- Florida-Specific Blooms: Consider incorporating Florida-native flowers and greenery into your arrangements.
Caterers
- Tastings: If possible, schedule a tasting to sample different menu options before making a final decision.
- Dietary Restrictions: Clearly communicate any dietary restrictions or allergies to your caterer.
Making it Legal After the Ceremony
Don't forget the final, critical step!
- Officiant's Responsibilities: After the ceremony, your officiant is responsible for completing the marriage license and returning it to the county clerk's office.
- Filing the License: The license must be filed within 10 days of the ceremony.
- Certified Copy: Once the license is recorded, you can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate, which you will need for legal purposes (changing your name, updating insurance, etc.).
Important Legal Notes
Common Law Marriage
- Florida does not recognize common law marriages created within the state. If you are already in a valid common law marriage (established in a state that recognizes it), Florida will typically recognize it.
Proxy Marriages
- Florida does not allow proxy marriages (where one or both parties are not physically present at the ceremony).
Video: Florida Nuptials: Non-Resident Wedding Guide [Must Read]
Florida Nuptials: Non-Resident Wedding Guide FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about planning your Florida wedding as a non-resident to help clarify key points from the guide.
How long do I have to be in Florida before getting married?
There is no residency requirement for getting married in Florida for non-residents. You can get married as soon as you arrive, as long as you have the necessary documents.
What documents do non-residents need to get a marriage license in Florida?
You'll need valid photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport. If either of you have been previously married, you’ll need to provide the date of divorce, annulment, or death. There's no need for blood tests or medical examinations for getting married in Florida for non-residents.
Where can non-residents apply for a marriage license in Florida?
You can apply for a marriage license at any County Clerk's office in Florida. It does not need to be the county where you are planning to get married. Check the county clerk's website for specific hours and requirements.
Is there a waiting period after applying for the marriage license?
For non-residents getting married in Florida, there is a 3-day waiting period after applying for the marriage license, unless you complete a premarital course registered with the state. By completing the course, you also get a discount on the marriage license fee.