Requirements for a U.S. citizen to marry in Colombia

The exact list depends on the notary and whether the foreign national is domiciled in Colombia. This guide explains how to prepare commonly requested U.S. documents without replacing the Colombian notary’s review.

First determine whether you are domiciled in Colombia

The specific rule for a foreign national not domiciled in Colombia generally calls for a birth record and proof of single status or an accepted equivalent. A person domiciled in Colombia may receive a different list, so contact the notary that will perform the marriage first.

Documents commonly prepared in the United States

• Valid passport.
• Certified copy of the birth certificate.
• Single-status evidence accepted by the notary.
• If previously married, official proof of divorce, annulment or death.
• The corresponding apostilles and Spanish translations.

Does the United States issue a national single-status certificate?

No. The United States has no national civil-status registry, and the federal government does not certify that someone is single. Some Colombian notaries accept an affidavit of eligibility to marry, but the wording and form must be confirmed before it is notarized and apostilled.

Document validity

The rule for a non-domiciled foreign national refers to documents issued less than three months earlier. The same regulation also includes a general one-month rule for certain birth records. Ask the chosen notary to confirm its deadline in writing before ordering new documents.

Apostille and Spanish translation

1. Obtain the certified record or prepare the affidavit the notary accepted.
2. Request the apostille from the state that issued the record or commissioned the notary.
3. Apostille the source document first.
4. Arrange the Spanish translation required by the receiving authority.

After the application is filed

The notary reviews the documents and posts a notice for five business days. A prior marriage, children from another relationship, marital agreements, powers of attorney or name differences can create additional requirements.

Frequently asked questions

Must the birth certificate be apostilled?

Normally yes. The apostille comes from the state that issued the certified record.

Can I use any single-status affidavit?

No. Confirm the equivalent and wording accepted by the Colombian notary first.

Should translation come before apostille?

Colombian guidance recommends apostilling the source document first and translating afterward.

What if I am divorced or widowed?

Provide the relevant official record and ask the notary which additional documents apply.

Official sources

• Colombia Decree 2668 of 1988
• U.S. Department of State — Marriage Abroad
• Colombian Foreign Ministry — Apostille