Civil wedding in Guanajuato 2025: 9 steps + checklist
In Guanajuato City, same-sex civil marriages have been registered since December 2021, as well as different-sex marriages. If you’re ready to make it official, here’s a practical guide with 9 steps, a checklist and useful links to book and pay. Remember: requirements vary by municipality—always confirm with your local Civil Registry office.
What’s inside
1) Booking & modality
Decide on date, time and place. Check availability for the Civil Registry office (usually cheaper) or an on-site judge at your venue/home (additional logistics and fees).
2) Core documents (checklist)
- Valid government IDs for both.
- Updated birth certificates.
- CURP (if applicable).
- Recent proof of address.
- Registry application/format and fee payment receipt.
- Where applicable, divorce/death certificates to prove legal capacity to marry.
Some offices may request medical certificates or prior statements—confirm when booking.
3) Witnesses
Most offices ask for 2 witnesses per spouse with valid ID. Ideally, not direct-line relatives.
4) Payments & appointments
- Make the official fee payment and keep your folio/receipt.
- Confirm the signing time and judge arrival (if on-site).
- Bring originals and copies for the entire file.
5) Judge at office vs. on-site
- Office: faster processing, limited capacity.
- On-site: signing table, basic audio and a quiet area; consider travel time for the judge.
6) Foreign documents & translations
If either of you was born abroad, ask whether you need an Apostille and a sworn translation. Also check document validity windows and migration requirements.
7) Suggested timelines
- Book: ideally 3–6 months in advance.
- File complete: 2–4 weeks before the date.
- Final confirmations: 72–48 hours prior (judge, witnesses, address/venue).
8) Ceremony setup (if on-site)
- Signing table with two chairs; microphone or a clear speaking spot.
- Reading of Civil Code articles and optional personal vows.
- Toast and immediate-family photos.
9) Certificate delivery & copies
Ask whether the certificate is issued the same day or later at the counter. Request certified copies and check if a digital process is available.
Quick questions
Are same-sex marriages allowed?
Yes. Guanajuato City has registered them since December 2021. Still, confirm current guidelines when you book.
Can I marry in a different municipality than my address?
Some offices may ask for a residence letter—check the practice for your specific office.
What if our witnesses don’t show up?
Have backups with valid ID. Without valid witnesses, the ceremony cannot proceed.
Want us to coordinate your Guanajuato civil wedding?
We assemble your file, schedule with the judge and style a beautiful, streamlined signing.
Tip: save PDFs like Lastname1-Lastname2_document.pdf and share the folder with your planner.
*This article is informational. Always verify current requirements with the Civil Registry in the municipality where you’ll marry.*