Yes. International couples can marry in California if they meet standard requirements (valid ID, legal age, capacity to marry). There is no California residency requirement for visitors, so tourists and destination couples commonly elope here.

No. Citizenship is not required to get married in California. What matters is identity verification and meeting legal requirements for marriage.

Most international couples use passports as their government-issued photo ID. Bring the original passport so information can be entered accurately and verified.

No. You can use a home-country address. California does not require you to live in the state to marry there.

Often yes, depending on availability and eligibility. Same-day works best when both partners arrive prepared with valid IDs and required details.

Both partners must understand what they’re signing, answer basic questions, and freely consent at the time of the appointment. If someone cannot demonstrate informed consent, the marriage cannot proceed legally.

Confidential marriage licenses generally do not require witnesses, which helps international couples keep things simple. If a public license is used, witness rules may differ based on that license type.

You’ll need the exact date the prior marriage ended. Depending on the county and your situation, supporting documents (like a divorce decree) may be requested—especially if details are unclear.

Usually no for the marriage license itself, but some couples want them for separate immigration or consular workflows. Always follow the requirements for the specific process you’re preparing for.

Certified copies are ordered through the county after the record is filed/recorded. Processing times and ordering rules vary by county, so plan for a short wait after the ceremony.

Temporary proof can help with immediate needs while you wait, but most official processes require a certified copy issued by the county. See Proof of Marriage for the practical timeline.

Often yes, but recognition typically depends on your home country’s registration rules. Many countries require a certified copy and an apostille (or legalization) before local registration.

An apostille is a form of authentication used for countries that participate in the Hague Apostille Convention. It certifies the signature/seal on the document so it can be accepted abroad.

Typically, you apostille a certified copy of the recorded marriage certificate (not the ceremonial paperwork). The certified copy is what most countries and consulates expect.

Non-Hague destinations may require “legalization” (additional authentication steps and sometimes consular processing). Confirm destination requirements before you order extra certified copies.

Some destinations require a translation of the marriage certificate for local registration or immigration filings. Translation is usually planned after you receive certified copies, unless you have special instructions from a consulate.

Often yes, depending on location rules, feasibility, and scheduling. Mobile ceremonies are popular for international couples who want a destination-style experience.

Many couples choose special dates when courthouses are closed. Availability depends on scheduling—see Holiday Marriages for planning tips.

It can be, because it creates a clear legal marriage record. For immigration, most agencies prefer certified copies, so plan to order them after filing. For official guidance, consult USCIS or a licensed immigration attorney.

Start with eligibility and document readiness, then choose your appointment type (office/chapel-style or mobile). Use these pages: Requirements and Schedule.