How to Legally Wed in Nantes, France as a Foreigner

Nantes, located in the picturesque Loire Valley of France, is a city that exudes charm and romance, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking to tie the knot. If you’re a foreigner considering Nantes as your wedding destination, you may be wondering about the legal requirements and processes involved. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to legally wed in Nantes, France, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience.

Understanding the Legal Requirements

To legally marry in Nantes as a foreigner, you need to familiarize yourself with the following requirements:

Legal Age

Both parties must be at least 18 years old to get married in France.

Proof of Identity

You will need to provide valid passports or identity cards to establish your identity.

Residency Requirement

There is no residency requirement to get married in Nantes, making it an attractive option for destination weddings.

Marital Status

You must be single, divorced, or widowed to marry in France. If you were previously married, you need to provide relevant documents such as divorce decrees or death certificates.

Consent

If either party is under 18 but over 16, parental consent is required.

Gathering Required Documents

Before you can legally wed in Nantes, you will need to gather a set of documents. It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on your nationality, so it is advisable to contact the relevant authorities or seek professional assistance. Generally, the required documents include:

Proof of Identity

Valid passports or identity cards.

Birth Certificates

Official birth certificates translated into French by a certified translator if they are not already in French.

Certificates of No Impediment (CNI)

Obtained from your home country’s embassy or consulate in France, this document confirms your eligibility to marry.

Proof of Address

Documents showing your current residence, such as utility bills or rental agreements.

Proof of Single Status

If you were previously married, provide divorce decrees or death certificates of the previous spouse.

Booking the Wedding Venue

Nantes offers a variety of beautiful venues for your dream wedding ceremony. From historical chateaux to stunning gardens and romantic riverfront locations, you can choose a venue that aligns with your preferences. It is advisable to book the venue well in advance to secure your desired date and avoid any last-minute disappointments.

Scheduling the Ceremony

Once you have gathered the necessary documents and booked your wedding venue, you can contact the Nantes City Hall (Mairie) to schedule your ceremony. They will guide you through the process and provide you with the available dates and times for your wedding.

Legalizing Your Marriage

After the ceremony, your marriage will be legally recognized in France. You can obtain a marriage certificate (livret de famille) from the City Hall, which serves as proof of your marriage.

Nantes, with its enchanting ambiance and rich cultural heritage, offers a perfect setting for a romantic and legally recognized wedding for foreigners. By familiarizing yourself with the legal requirements, gathering the necessary documents, and following the prescribed procedures, you can ensure a seamless wedding experience in this charming French city. Celebrate your love and create unforgettable memories as you embark on this beautiful journey together.

Have A Symbolic Ceremony Instead

While a traditional wedding with all the fanfare and guests is a popular choice for many couples, some prefer a more intimate and personalized experience. Nantes, France, with its romantic charm and picturesque locations, offers the perfect backdrop for a symbolic ceremony or destination elopement. In this blog post, we will explore the advantages and considerations of opting for a symbolic ceremony or destination elopement in Nantes, allowing you to create a unique and unforgettable celebration of your love.

The Meaning of a Symbolic Ceremony

A symbolic ceremony is a non-legally binding celebration of love, where couples exchange vows and rings without the legal formalities. It provides couples with the freedom to personalize their ceremony, incorporating meaningful rituals, readings, and music that reflect their unique relationship. Nantes, with its enchanting atmosphere, offers a range of stunning venues to choose from, including gardens, historic sites, and scenic spots, where you can create an intimate and memorable symbolic ceremony.

Benefits of a Symbolic Ceremony or Destination Elopement

Flexibility

Opting for a symbolic ceremony or destination elopement allows you to plan your celebration with greater flexibility. You can choose a date, time, and location that aligns with your preferences and schedule, without being bound by legal requirements or guest considerations.

Intimacy

Symbolic ceremonies or elopements are perfect for couples seeking an intimate celebration. It provides an opportunity to focus solely on each other, savoring the moment and creating lifelong memories in a romantic setting.

Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to a traditional wedding, symbolic ceremonies or elopements can be more budget-friendly. You can allocate your resources towards creating a unique experience rather than dealing with the expenses associated with a larger guest list. Check out my budget blog for Nice, France here!

Less Planning Stress

With fewer logistical considerations and formalities to navigate, planning a symbolic ceremony or elopement in Nantes can be less stressful. It allows you to focus on the elements that truly matter to you as a couple and enjoy a more relaxed and intimate celebration.

Personalizing Your Ceremony

One of the key advantages of a symbolic ceremony is the freedom to personalize every aspect of the celebration. Consider incorporating meaningful rituals, such as handfasting, unity candle lighting, or sand blending. Choose readings, poems, or vows that resonate with your relationship and love story. You can also hire a professional officiant who specializes in creating customized ceremonies to ensure a personalized and heartfelt experience.

Capturing the Memories

Although a symbolic ceremony or elopement may not have the extensive guest list of a traditional wedding, you can still capture the precious moments with professional photography and videography. Nantes offers breathtaking landscapes and architectural wonders that can serve as a stunning backdrop for your photographs, allowing you to cherish and share the memories of your special day for years to come.

Choosing a symbolic ceremony or destination elopement in Nantes, France, offers couples a unique opportunity to celebrate their love in an intimate and personalized way. Whether you desire a romantic garden ceremony, a secluded elopement on the banks of the Loire River, or a symbolic celebration at a historic venue, Nantes provides the perfect setting for your dream ceremony. Embrace the freedom, flexibility, and personalization that a symbolic ceremony or elopement offers, and create a truly unforgettable celebration of your love amidst the enchanting ambiance of Nantes.

Let’s connect to plane your Nantes Wedding!