How can a foreigner marry a Colombian national in Colombia? Requirements and Guide 2026
2026-02-13
Written by Camila Ocampo, Lead Immigration Attorney at Colombian Passport.
I understand exactly how you feel. The desire to build a life with the person you love in this beautiful country is often accompanied by a paralyzing anxiety: "Are my documents correct?", "Will I get citizenship immediately?", "What if my papers expire before the appointment?"
I am Camila Ocampo, and after years of guiding binational couples, I know that marriage in Colombia is not just an act of love—it is a rigorous legal contract that lays the foundation for your migratory future.
Don't let a missing apostille or a poor translation ruin your big day. Here is everything you need to know, step by step, without unnecessary technicalities.
A Vital Distinction: What is a "Notaría" in Colombia?
If you are from the United States, Canada, or the UK, it is vital to know that a Notaría in Colombia is NOT the same as a Notary Public.
In most English-speaking countries, a notary simply witnesses a signature. In Colombia, the Notario is a high-ranking official with the legal authority to perform marriages and validate documents. Think of the Notaría as the equivalent of "City Hall" or the "County Clerk"—it is the official place where your legal bond is created.
Document Checklist for Foreigners
Colombian notaries are strict with international documentation. Here are the key points most people overlook:
Birth Certificate: It must be an authentic copy issued by your home country's authority, apostilled, and officially translated into Spanish by a translator registered in Colombia.
Single Status or Divorce?
If you have never been married: You must present an Apostilled Certificate of Single Status (or Affidavit of Eligibility to Marry).
If you have been married before: You do not present a single status certificate. Instead, you must provide the Divorce Decree (or certificate) for every single previous marriage. If you have been divorced three times, you need three apostilled and translated decrees.
The Rule of Dual Nationality: If you hold two passports, the law requires consistency. You must complete the entire process using the nationality you used to enter Colombia most recently, and it must match your origin documents (birth and civil status). Visas and legal processes are not transferable between nationalities.
Passport and Immigration Status: While it is ideal to be in regular status, notary criteria can vary. If your status is irregular, my expert advice is to consult 2 or 3 different notaries. Some are more flexible and may allow the ceremony after validating your conditions.
Minor Children from Previous Marriages: Under the Colombian Civil Code, you might need an "Inventario Solemne de Bienes" (Solemn Inventory of Assets). While many of my clients are rarely asked for this, some notaries might bring it up. If they do, it's often easier to find another notary, although this requirement is actually a great way to protect your children's inheritance from the new marital assets.
Camila's Pro-Tip: Not all Notarías are created equal. Some have excellent customer service and bilingual staff, while others are overwhelmed with long lines. Visit 2 or 3 notaries in your city and evaluate their flexibility and professionalism. Choosing a notary is important because you will be linked to them for life whenever you need a new marriage certificate.
What Your Colombian Partner Needs
For the Colombian national, the process is simpler but equally technical:
Cédula de Ciudadanía: Original and a photocopy enlarged to 150%.
Birth Certificate: An authentic copy with the marginal note "Válido para matrimonio" (Valid for marriage), issued recently (ideally less than 30 days old).
The Process: From Filing to "I Do"
Filing and Review: You submit your documents to the chosen notary. They scrutinize every seal and date.
Publication of the Edict: Once approved, the notary posts a public notice (edict) for a few days to ensure there are no legal oppositions to the union.
The Ceremony: A date and time are set. At least one witness must attend. You and your witnesses will sign the Public Deed (Escritura Pública).
The Marriage Certificate: A few days later, you will collect your official Colombian Marriage Certificate (Registro Civil de Matrimonio).
Important for your Visa: If you plan to apply for a Spouse Visa, request a second copy of this certificate with the notary's "wet seal" and a recent issuance date. This is the "Golden Document" for your immigration process!
From "I Do" to the Colombian Passport
Nationality is not automatic. Marriage is the key, but the journey has stages:
M-Spouse Visa: Your first step to living and working legally in Colombia. If you need more information about this visa please visit: Your Guide to the Spouse of a Colombian Citizen Visa: Requirements and Benefits.
Permanent Residency (R Visa): You can apply after 3 continuous years as a holder of the M-Spouse Visa. If you need more information about this visa please visit: Accumulated Time Resident Visa: Your Path to Permanent Residency in Colombia.
Nationality by Adoption: After 2 additional years as a resident (5 years total), you will be eligible for the Colombian passport.
If you want to learn more about it, please take a look to this content: If I Marry a Colombian, Do I Get Colombian Nationality?
Don't Navigate This Process Alone
At Colombian Passport, we don't just fill out forms. We create a legal strategy so that your transition from couple to residents is smooth and stress-free.
If you are ready to start your life in Colombia, let's talk. Your peace of mind is my priority.