Saying "I Do" in Sin City: Can Foreigners Get Hitched in Vegas, Baby?
So, you and your lobster (that's what they call your soulmate in Vegas, right?) have decided to tie the knot in the dazzling, slightly-unreal world of Las Vegas. But hold on a sec, cowboy (or cowgirl!), what if you're not a US citizen? Does that mean your Elvis-officiated ceremony is a recipe for heartbreak (and potential deportation)?
Fear not, lovebirds! Las Vegas, in all its quirky glory, welcomes international couples with open arms (and maybe a complimentary bouquet of plastic roses). Here's the lowdown on getting hitched in Vegas as a non-US citizen:
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| Can Non Us Citizens Get Married In Las Vegas |
Can You Do The Thing?
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Absolutely! There's no "citizens only" rule at the chapel window. As long as you meet the general requirements (being 18 or older, not already married, and possessing a healthy dose of whimsy), you're good to go.
But Wait, There's More! (The Fun Part)
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Here's where things get interesting. Unlike some countries with a marriage waiting period longer than your average Vegas buffet line, Nevada operates on a "get your license, get hitched, get back to the blackjack table" philosophy. You can literally walk in, snag a marriage license, and get married the same day.
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Need-to-Know Nitty Gritty
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- ID and Proof of Entry: Pack your passports and any documents showing you entered the US legally (like that tourist visa you hopefully remembered to apply for).
- The All-Important Marriage License: This is your golden ticket to wedded bliss. Apply online beforehand or head to the Marriage License Bureau in person. It's a quick process, so don't worry about missing out on any Elvis impersonator contests.
- Translation Certification (Maybe): If your precious documents aren't in English, you might need a certified translation. Just another fun Vegas souvenir!
Making it Official Back Home
Congratulations, you crazy kids did it! But before you start planning your honeymoon in Antarctica (because, hey, why not?), there's one more step. Most countries require an apostille (fancy word for an authentication stamp) on your marriage certificate for it to be recognized. The Nevada Secretary of State can help you out with that.
Tip: Make mental notes as you go.
How To FAQs
- How to Apply for a Marriage License: You can apply online at the Clark County Marriage Bureau website or head there in person (they're open late, perfect for those post-gambling sprees!).
- How Much Does it Cost?: The marriage license itself is around $100, but factor in officiant fees and any chapel/Elvis impersonator add-ons.
- How Long Does the Marriage Last?: Luckily, Vegas weddings are legal marriages recognized worldwide, as long as you follow the proper procedures.
- How Long Do I Have to Stay in Vegas?: There's no minimum stay required. Get hitched, grab a pink flamingo floatie, and hightail it out of there if you wish!
- How Do I Know if My Home Country Needs an Apostille?: Check with your embassy or consulate to be sure.
So there you have it, folks! Getting married in Vegas as a non-US citizen is a breeze. Just remember, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas (unless you need an apostille, that is). Now go forth, conquer the buffets, and say "I do" under the shimmering lights of Sin City!
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