Special requirements: Getting married abroad

Overseas weddings have to be organised months in advance. Other than the bookings and planning for the wedding itself, you may need visas, jabs and certain documents. Get advice about which of these you'll need to take and make sure wedding gifts, rings and clothes are covered by your travel insurance.

Paperwork

Original birth certificates are an absolute must wherever you go. After that, requirements depend on your age and previous marital status. Some resorts ask couples to send copies of forms several weeks before a wedding. You'll usually be asked to take:

• Original birth certificates
• Death certificates, if you're a widow or widower
• Certificates of no impediment to marriage
• A decree absolut, if either of you has been divorced
• A deed poll certificate if a name has been changed
• A statutory declaration signed by a solicitor if you're under 18 or 21 years old
• Letters stating your occupations and places of employment
• An affidavit/statutory declaration proving you're both single and able to marry

Important reminders

• Make sure your wedding takes place a few days after you reach your destination - you may have to reside there for several days before you can legally marry. Allow time, too, for wedding applications to be processed. Wedding certificates may need to be mailed on to you
• Forward copies of any documents needed at least three months before your wedding
• Check whether you'll have to stay in a country for a minimum period after marrying
• Make sure your religion can be accommodated for your wedding ceremony
• Note, if marrying in a Spanish-speaking country, documents may have to be translated
• Don't book a wedding on a public holiday
• Confirm your wedding/honeymoon details before you leave home
• Make sure your passport is valid and any visas and jabs are organised in advance
• Remember to have your wedding registered in the UK when you come home

Packing

• Wear wedding dresses/suits appropriate for your destination's climate
• Hang wedding outfits in suit carriers in a plane's cabin, if possible
• Pack gifts in a hard suitcase or wait until you're home to receive them
• Take an empty holdall for extras and decorations you may want to keep

Guests

Unless you're getting married on a boat or another unusual setting, there's no limit to how many friends and relatives can attend your wedding. Many resorts offer discounts or special deals if you bring a minimum number of guests.

• If you want time alone, consider booking a twin-centre break and leave guests behind
• Consider booking at two hotels if marrying and honeymooning at one destination
• Ask a best man, matron of honour or wedding co-ordinator to look after guests' needs.