Blog Post
Same Sex Marriage approved in Costa Rica
Quality Solutions • Jun 02, 2020
May 26, 2020
Same-sex marriage was approved in Costa Rica and it is authorized starting from May 26, 2020. After a long legal struggle, same-sex marriage is finally established in our legislation.
In Costa Rica approval of same sex-marriage provides legal recognition in which the contracting parties, upon consolidating the union, are subject to the patrimonial and domestic duties and rights established by civil and family law.
In order to go before a notary public to celebrate a marriage, the interest party must comply with the same legal requirements that are requested for pre-existing marriages in our country.
Requirements for the marriage:
1. Publication of the Edict of law: This Edict must be sent for publishing with at least 22 days in advance so it can be published in the time required by law. This edict is required and must be published in the official journal “La Gaceta” and the purpose is to inform third parties that the spouses are going to get married, and if they know of any impediment, they must notify the notary.
2. Birth certification and marital status certification. If these documents come from a foreign country, they must be apostilled and translated if necessary.
3. Two witnesses. Two people that certify the legal capacities of the parties.
4. Valid and up-to-date identification document. In the case of Costa Ricans, the document must be the identity card; in the case of foreigner’s, a residency card or DIMEX or passport with up-to-date visa.
If any of the spouses is a foreigner, and they wish to remain in Costa Rica, this marriage will give the foreigner the right to apply for the Residency by Marriage with a Costa Rican person or Naturalization. Of course, the rest of requirements must be complied. Contact our experts for more information.
Contact our notaries for more information of the cost and requirements to get married in Costa Rica.
