Legal Marriage in California for Immigration Purposes: Everything You Need to Know
For couples navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration, a legal marriage in California can be a powerful first step toward stability, unity, and a secure future. Whether you’re seeking to adjust immigration status, apply for a green card, or provide spousal documentation for a visa, the legal marriage process must be handled with precision, professionalism, and urgency.
Get Married Today offers a legal and streamlined path to same-day marriages in California, including marriage license issuance, legally binding ceremonies, and documentation support—all without stepping foot in a courthouse.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about getting legally married in California for immigration purposes, including requirements, step-by-step procedures, frequently asked questions, and how Get Married Today can help expedite your journey.
Why a Legal Marriage Matters for Immigration
Marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident can open the door to many immigration benefits. A legal marriage:
- Establishes eligibility for a green card (Form I-485)
- Supports petitions such as Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
- Strengthens legal standing for removal of conditions (Form I-751)
- Allows for filing for spousal visas (K-1/K-3)
- Provides access to adjustment of status without leaving the U.S.
However, USCIS and the Department of State require that your marriage be valid under state law—in this case, California law. This means completing all legal steps, including obtaining a license, performing the ceremony, and filing your paperwork.
With Get Married Today, these steps can be completed on the same day, even if time is critical for immigration filings or deadlines.
Who Is Eligible to Marry in California?
California has simple, inclusive requirements for marriage:
- Both individuals must be at least 18 years old
- Both must consent freely to the marriage
- At least one valid government-issued ID is required
- No proof of legal status or Social Security Number is required
- Same-sex and opposite-sex couples are treated equally
Couples do not need to be California residents or even U.S. citizens to get legally married in California. This makes it an ideal state for immigrants and international couples.
Get Married Today helps immigrant couples legally marry with just a valid ID—passport, driver’s license, or consular ID—and no residency restrictions.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Married for Immigration Purposes in California
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Contact Get Married Today to book your same-day appointment. They are authorized by the County Clerk’s office to issue marriage licenses and perform the ceremony legally.
Book now to reserve your time, even on evenings, weekends, or holidays.
2. Bring Valid ID
You must present a valid photo ID, such as:
- Passport (even if expired)
- Driver’s license
- Consular ID card
- State-issued ID
No Social Security Number or immigration documents are required. This is ideal for immigrants who may not yet have full documentation.
If you’re unsure about what ID qualifies, contact our team for a consultation.
3. Marriage License Issuance
A Deputy Commissioner of Civil Marriages from Get Married Today will issue your marriage license on-site. There is no waiting period in California, so you may proceed to the ceremony immediately.
This marriage license is issued directly through the County Clerk, making it 100% legally valid for immigration filings.
4. Same-Day Legal Ceremony
After issuing your license, Get Married Today will perform the legal marriage ceremony and file all necessary paperwork. They offer services at:
- Homes
- Offices
- Beaches
- Hospitals
- Parks
- Chapels
- Courthouses (by appointment)
You receive proof of marriage immediately, which you can use in your immigration filing. For couples seeking privacy, discreet ceremonies are available.
5. Receive Your Official Marriage Certificate
The team will file your license with the county and can order your certified marriage certificate to be mailed directly to your address.
Need it internationally? They also offer apostille certification services for use in your country of origin or for foreign consulates.
Immigration Filings That Require Legal Marriage
Here are just a few immigration cases where your California marriage can be pivotal:
- Green Card through Marriage
USCIS requires a certified marriage certificate as part of the adjustment of status process. - Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130)
You must submit legal proof of your marriage to initiate the immigration process for a spouse. - Removal of Conditions (Form I-751)
For conditional residents, a legal marriage strengthens your case when requesting permanent status. - Consular Processing (Form DS-260)
Spouses applying from abroad must present a valid U.S. marriage certificate at their visa interview.
Get Married Today helps ensure your documents are correctly issued and filed, supporting a smooth immigration path.
Can I Get Married Without Legal Status?
Yes. California does not require immigration status to issue a marriage license or perform a legal ceremony. You can get married with a valid passport or foreign ID—even if you are undocumented, on a visa, or between statuses.
Get Married Today understands the importance of discretion, urgency, and full compliance with both California marriage law and immigration requirements.
Apostille Services for Immigration Use Abroad
If your spouse is outside the U.S., or if your marriage certificate will be used abroad, you may need an apostille for the marriage certificate. An apostille verifies the authenticity of the document for use in countries under the Hague Apostille Convention.
Get Married Today offers same-day apostille processing for:
- Spouse visa applications (K-1, CR-1)
- Consular interviews
- Dual citizenship applications
- Legalization of marriage in another country
Learn more about apostille support.
Why Choose Get Married Today?
✅ Licensed by the County Clerk’s Office
✅ Marriage License + Ceremony on the Same Day
✅ Available 24/7 (Even weekends and holidays)
✅ Multilingual team familiar with immigration cases
✅ On-location weddings (home, office, park, hospital)
✅ Certified copies and apostille services available
✅ Discreet and professional for immigration needs
Common Immigration Questions About Marriage in California
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get married in California?
No. California law allows anyone to marry regardless of immigration status or nationality.
Can I use my California marriage certificate in immigration court?
Yes. The marriage certificate issued through Get Married Today is legal and valid for all immigration processes, including USCIS and consular filings.
How long does it take to get a certified marriage certificate?
Typically 5–8 weeks by mail. However, rush services and apostille processing are available.
Can I use a marriage in California to apply for a green card?
Yes. A legal California marriage can be the foundation for Form I-130 and subsequent adjustment of status.
Will USCIS accept my marriage if I didn’t go to a courthouse?
Yes. Marriages performed by a legally authorized officiant (such as Get Married Today) are 100% valid under state law.
Get Married Today – Your Trusted Partner in Immigration & Legal Marriage
Whether you’re marrying for love, unity, or a shared dream of staying together in the U.S., Get Married Today is here to help.
With decades of combined experience in legal marriage services, document filing, and urgent immigration timelines, our team ensures you’re married legally, quickly, and with full peace of mind.
We serve Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside County, and beyond. We’re ready to meet you at your home, hospital, beach, or park—any day, any time.