The Islands of Tahiti, officially known as French Polynesia, are a gorgeous selection of volcanic islands and atolls strewn lazily across the grand South Pacific ocean. French Polynesia is known for its exclusive resorts for the discerning traveller, however there are more types of resorts and hotels to suit all markets. With a combination of modern Polynesian styled accommodation, the friendly Tahitian hospitality and with some of the most breath-taking scenery in the Pacific, you will undoubtedly experience a romantic holiday in ultimate paradise.
Getting Married in Tahiti
Weddings are now legal in French Polynesia! A new law was recently passed in France which has allowed non-French nationals to be legally wed throughout the islands of Tahiti. Many of the hotels, resorts and cruise line partners are eager to cater to this new opportunity. Couples who wish to be legally married in the islands of Tahiti can now have a memorable and meaningful wedding in one of the most beautiful, romantic places on Earth!
Eligibility to get married
- Both spouses must be at least 18 years old
- Both spouses cannot be already married
- Spouses must be of the opposite sex
- Cannot be related by direct lineage
- Cannot be of French origin or have French residential status in France or its territories
- The bride and the groom must each choose a witness (who must be 18 years of age or older. Please note: if the chosen witnesses are not present, the mayor will appoint a witness).
What you need
All documents must be sent at least 45 days prior to the ceremony to the City Hall of the commune where the wedding will take place. After submission of the application file the Mayor’s office will post a Non Opposition to Marriage document. The mayor’s office will then contact the spouses to advise of the approved date and time of the wedding!
- The “Marriage of Foreign Citizens in French Polynesia” document must be completed.
- A letter signed and dated by both future spouses, addressed to the mayor of the commune chosen for the marriage ceremony, noting which language the ceremony will take place in.
- Proof of identity of both of the future spouses (copies of their passports).
- A certified copy of both spouses’ birth certificate authenticated with an “Apostille” (note: the birth certificates must have been issued less than 6 months prior to the date of the marriage). Both of the birth certificates and the “Apostille” must be translated into French by an approved translator and legalized by the French Consulate (translators can be found on the consulate’s website).
- A “Certificate of Non-Marital Status” (“Certificat de Celibat”) signed by a lawyer, translated into French and legalized by the French Consulate. Lawyers can be found on the consulate’s website.
- Proof of residency for both of the future spouses (a utility bill or any bill noting names and physical address will suffice). A photocopy of bills for both spouses is acceptable.
- Optional, if a prenuptial agreement has been created, it must be translated into French and authenticated by the French Consulate.
Marriage Fees
There is no cost for the French consulate to legalize the documents.
