So You and Your Loonie** Want to Tie the Knot in Sin City, Eh?
Ever dreamt of saying "I do" with the neon glow of the Las Vegas strip as your backdrop? Maybe ditching the traditional wedding fuss for a whirlwind Vegas elopement is more your style. But hold your maple syrup, you Canucks! Before you jet set to Nevada with Elvis Presley (or a slightly-less-greased impersonator) waiting in the wings, there are a few things to consider.
Can Canadians Actually Get Married in Vegas?
Absolutely, you hosers! Las Vegas, and the state of Nevada in general, welcomes lovebirds from all over the world with open arms (and maybe a slot machine in one). As long as you follow the proper procedures, your Vegas marriage will be as legit as a beaver pelt tuxedo (which, admittedly, isn't very legit at all).
Here's the Lo Down on Getting Hitched Vegas-Style:
- Grab Your Passport and Ditch the Moose Calls: You'll need a valid passport to prove you're not just some random tourist who decided to get hitched on a whim (although, Vegas welcomes those too).
- Hit Up the Marriage License Bureau: This isn't rocket science, folks. Head to the Clark County Marriage License Bureau with your sweetie and some ID. Bonus points if you wear matching Canadian tuxedos for the occasion.
- No Waiting Period, But There Might Be a Line: Unlike some places (ahem, your home province), there's no waiting period to get married in Vegas. However, be prepared to wait in line with all the other lovebirds with the same bright idea. Hey, at least the wait can be filled with people-watching and planning your post-wedding buffets.
- Find Yourself an Officiant (Who May or May Not Be Elvis): Vegas offers a smorgasbord of celeb impersonators ready to officiate your nuptials. Elvis? Michael Jackson? A surprisingly convincing Abraham Lincoln? The choice, as they say, is yours.
Pro Tip: If you're not into the whole impersonator thing, there are plenty of chapels and officiants who can provide a more traditional ceremony.
But Wait, There's More! (Because There Always Is in Vegas)
While a Vegas wedding is recognized in Canada, to avoid any future headaches, it's recommended to register your marriage with your home province upon returning. This ensures everything is hunky-dory on the legal front.
How to FAQs for the Discerning Canadian Couple:
- How long does it take to get a marriage license in Vegas? The whole process usually takes less than an hour, though waiting times can vary.
- Do I need a blood test to get married in Vegas? Nope! Nevada thankfully does away with that formality.
- Can I get married in Vegas if I'm already common-law in Canada? This is a good one to check with a lawyer, but generally speaking, a Vegas wedding would supersede your common-law status.
- How much does it cost to get married in Vegas? The cost can vary depending on the marriage license, officiant, and any additional wedding bells and whistles you desire. But hey, it's probably cheaper than a traditional wedding back home.
- What happens after I get married in Vegas? Besides living happily ever after? You'll want to register your marriage with your home province and start planning your epic honeymoon, of course!