For many immigrants in the United States, a courthouse wedding can be an excellent option to tie the knot. A civil ceremony will save you the time and expense of planning a wedding ceremony in a church or chapel, plus it will create an official record of your wedding that you may need as you navigate the immigration system.
Whether you want to qualify for a marriage-based visa or a Green Card, this guide will help you navigate the process of arranging a courthouse wedding while considering your immigration status.
The Benefits of a Courthouse Wedding
When you aren’t able to travel to your home country or have a destination wedding due to your immigration status, a courthouse wedding may be the next best thing. Here are some of the benefits:
- Courthouse weddings are typically much less expensive than traditional weddings, so you’ll be able to save money on venue rentals, catering, and other costly elements.
- The process is usually straightforward and can be completed in a short amount of time, often on the same day you apply for a marriage license.
- A smaller ceremony typically has a lower environmental impact than a large traditional wedding.
- Couples can quickly formalize their union and begin their married life together without a long engagement or planning period.
Remember, just because you are getting married at the courthouse doesn’t mean you can’t have a cultural or religious ceremony later on when your immigration status, schedule, or budget allows it. Many couples choose to have a court wedding first followed by a traditional celebration with friends and family later on.
How to Arrange a Courthouse Wedding
So now that you know the benefits of courthouse marriage, you may be wondering how to get married at the courthouse. To have a wedding at a courthouse, follow these steps:
Check Your Eligibility
Before your courthouse wedding, you’ll need to ensure both you and your partner meet the requirements to marry in the United States. That means you’ll need to be of legal age, which in most states is 18. You’ll also need to not currently be married to anyone else (even in another country!), and you will need to have the mental capacity to commit to marriage.
Gather Your Documents
So once you’ve verified that you are eligible to legally marry in the U.S., you’ll need to be ready to provide your Green Card or a valid visa, your passport, your birth certificate (with a certified translation if it’s not in English), and proof of any previous marriages if you’ve been married before.
Get Your Marriage License
To get your marriage license, you’ll need to visit your local county clerk’s office. While you’re there, you’ll apply for your marriage license. This typically involves paying a fee of about $50-$100 and completing an application form. Some states have waiting periods, so if you live in one of these states, be sure to plan accordingly.
Schedule Your Ceremony
To schedule your courthouse wedding ceremony, you’ll need to contact your local courthouse. Some courthouses accept walk-ins, but others require appointments, so you’ll want to confirm this information with your local courthouse in advance. Most states also require one or two witnesses. If you can’t provide your own, ask if the courthouse can provide them.
While it’s not always necessary, it’s generally a good idea to inform USCIS of your marriage, especially if you’re on a temporary visa. If you’re marrying a U.S. citizen and are eligible, you might consider applying for adjustment of status to obtain a Green Card based on marriage.
Understanding Your Status and Rights Before a Courthouse Wedding
If you are a permanent resident, you have the right to have a courthouse wedding in the U.S. without additional immigration paperwork. Be aware that if you’re a visa holder, depending on your visa type, getting married could impact your immigration status. For example, some visas prohibit the intent to immigrate, which marriage could imply.
A courthouse wedding can be a practical and meaningful option for Green Card and visa holders in the U.S. By understanding the process and considering the immigration implications, you can ensure that your special day complies with both marriage and immigration laws.
IMPORTANT: Always consult with legal professionals if you have doubts about how marriage might affect your immigration status.
