A wedding is one of the incredible milestones of a man’s life, but arranging such an event might take months of planning. But life doesn’t pause for a person waiting for perfect timing and there are quite a few reasons why two people may wish to get married sooner – be it for a marriage-based green card or just because two people wish to become husband and wife right away.
The good news therefore is that there exist several places globally where civil weddings can be arranged to take place without much delay and they are still special. If you are interested in having a short and plain marriage, or else, you fancy a memorable marriage in a certain city, here are 5 top cities for a fast marriage but with an unforgettable experience.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Known as the “Wedding Capital of the World,” Las Vegas offers a plethora of wedding chapels and venues that facilitate quick ceremonies. Couples can obtain a marriage license within 24 hours, making it an extremely convenient option for spontaneous weddings. The city features a variety of settings, from traditional chapels to luxurious hotels.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and modern vibe. It has a straightforward marriage application process with no residency requirements, allowing couples to tie the knot with minimal hassle. The picturesque backdrop makes it a romantic choice for those seeking an intimate ceremony.
New Zealand
New Zealand is another excellent option due to its minimal paperwork and no residency requirements. Couples can apply for a marriage license between three days and three months in advance, making it easy to plan a wedding on short notice. The country offers a range of beautiful venues, from scenic outdoor locations to charming indoor settings.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh combines historic charm with romantic architecture, making it perfect for quick weddings. The city’s cobblestone streets and beautiful landscapes provide an enchanting backdrop for ceremonies. The process to get married is relatively simple, appealing to couples looking for a swift yet memorable experience.
Gibraltar
Gibraltar is known for its straightforward marriage process, requiring only a few days’ notice to get married. Its unique geographical setting offers couples beautiful views and a distinctive atmosphere for their wedding day. This location is ideal for those looking for something different while still ensuring a quick ceremony.
What are the quickest wedding options available in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is renowned for its quick and convenient wedding options, making it a top destination for couples looking to tie the knot with minimal fuss. Here are some of the quickest wedding options available in the city:
Drive-Thru Weddings
The Drive-Thru Tunnel of Love allows couples to get married without leaving their car. This unique experience can be completed quickly, with packages starting as low as $89. The ceremony is performed in a private vehicle, making it both fun and efficient.
A Chapel of Love
Located at 1025 S 1st St, A Chapel of Love offers quick ceremonies and is known for its friendly service. Additionally, Couples can expect a straightforward process with onsite services available. It is recommended to make an appointment in advance.
Vegas Simple Weddings
This venue provides a range of packages designed for quick weddings, including options for online appointments and onsite services. Located at 1000 S 3rd St, it has garnered positive reviews for its efficiency and quality of service.
Bliss Wedding Chapel
Situated at 827 Las Vegas Blvd S, Bliss Wedding Chapel offers quick ceremonies with a variety of packages. It is LGBTQ+ friendly and has excellent accessibility options. Appointments are recommended to ensure a smooth process.
Love Story Wedding Chapel
With a high rating and numerous positive reviews, Love Story Wedding Chapel (704 S 6th St) specializes in quick and simple ceremonies. They also provide onsite services and have a reputation for making the wedding experience enjoyable and stress-free.
Key Considerations
- Marriage License: Couples can obtain a marriage license at the Clark County Marriage License Bureau, which is open daily from 8 AM to midnight. The license can typically be acquired within 15 minutes, allowing for spontaneous wedding plans.
- Documentation: Valid government-issued photo identification is required for both parties when applying for the marriage license.
What documents are needed for a same-day wedding in Reykjavik
To have a same-day wedding in Reykjavik, Iceland, couples must prepare specific documents to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a detailed list of the required paperwork:
Marriage Notification (Hjónavígsluskýrsla):
This form is provided by the District Magistrate in Reykjavik and must be filled out and signed by both parties. It also requires signatures from two witnesses who can confirm that there are no legal impediments to the marriage.
Birth Certificates:
Original birth certificates for both parties are necessary. These can be returned after the wedding ceremony.
Certificate of Marital Status:
Each party must submit a certificate confirming their marital status, issued within eight weeks prior to the wedding date. This document verifies that there are no legal barriers to the marriage.
Divorce Decree (if applicable):
If either party has been previously married, they must provide a divorce decree to prove that the previous marriage has ended.
Document for Widows/Widowers (if applicable):
If either party is a widow or widower, an official document showing that the estate of the deceased spouse has been finalized is required.
Valid Passports:
Both parties must present valid passports as proof of identity and nationality.
Proof of Legal Stay in Iceland:
Couples need to demonstrate that they are legally in Iceland at the time of the wedding. This can be shown through airline tickets, passport stamps, or valid visas.
Submission Timeline
- Couples should submit their paperwork at least five days before the wedding date to ensure all documents are processed in time for a same-day ceremony. While some documents can be sent via email beforehand, original copies must be presented in person.
Additional Notes
- All documents must be originals; photocopies are not accepted unless they are officially authorized copies with stamps or seals. If any documents are not in English or Scandinavian languages, they will need to be translated.
- After the ceremony, couples can obtain their marriage certificate in English from the National Registry Office (Þjóðskrá) in Reykjavik.
These cities not only facilitate quick weddings but also offer unique experiences that make your special day memorable. Whether you’re drawn to the glitz of Las Vegas or the historic charm of Edinburgh, each location provides distinct advantages for couples looking to wed without extensive planning.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the U.S. straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a CR-1 Visa or an F-1 Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit the United States. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
