FAQs

1. Is it legal for UK citizens to get married in the Canary Islands?

Yes, it is legal for UK citizens to get married in the Canary Islands, but there are specific requirements that must be met. The Canary Islands are part of Spain, so weddings are governed by Spanish law rather than UK law. A legal civil wedding carried out correctly in the Canary Islands will be legally recognised in the UK, meaning you won’t need to marry again when you return home.

However, legal weddings in Spain can be paperwork-heavy and usually require one or both partners to meet residency or documentation requirements. Because of this, many UK couples choose either a symbolic ceremony in the Canary Islands or work with a specialist wedding planner who understands the legal process. Symbolic weddings are not legally binding but allow complete freedom with venues and timing.

2. What paperwork do UK couples need to get married in the Canary Islands?

UK couples getting married in the Canary Islands typically need several official documents. These usually include full UK birth certificates, valid passports, proof of marital status (such as a Certificate of No Impediment), and in some cases proof of address or residency. If either partner has been married before, divorce decrees or death certificates may also be required.

Most documents must be officially translated into Spanish and may need to be legalised with an Apostille stamp. Requirements can vary depending on the local registry office and whether the ceremony is legal or symbolic. Because paperwork rules can change, many couples choose to work with a wedding planner or opt for a symbolic ceremony to avoid delays or complications.

3. How long does it take to organise a wedding in the Canary Islands?

The time needed to organise a wedding in the Canary Islands depends on whether you’re planning a legal or symbolic ceremony. A symbolic wedding can often be organised within a few months, sometimes even sooner, depending on venue availability and supplier schedules.

A legal wedding usually takes longer due to documentation and approval processes. Many couples allow 6 to 12 months to ensure paperwork is completed, translated, and approved by Spanish authorities. Starting early is strongly recommended, especially if you’re planning a summer wedding or travelling during school holidays when demand is higher.

4. How much does it cost to get married in the Canary Islands from the UK?

The cost of getting married in the Canary Islands varies widely depending on the type of wedding, location, and number of guests. On average, UK couples can expect destination weddings in the Canary Islands to start from a few thousand pounds for intimate ceremonies, with larger weddings costing more depending on venues, catering, décor, and travel.

While flights and accommodation are additional costs, many couples find that weddings abroad can be more cost-effective than UK weddings, particularly for smaller guest lists. Packages often include key elements such as the ceremony, flowers, and coordination, helping couples manage their budget more easily.

5. Can we have a legally recognised wedding in the Canary Islands, or is it symbolic only?

UK couples can choose between a legally recognised civil wedding or a symbolic ceremony in the Canary Islands. A legal wedding follows Spanish civil law and is fully recognised in the UK, provided all legal requirements are met.

Symbolic weddings are non-legal ceremonies that look and feel exactly like a traditional wedding but without legal paperwork. Many UK couples choose this option because it offers more flexibility with venues, dates, and ceremony styles. Some couples legally marry in the UK first, then celebrate with a symbolic wedding in the Canary Islands surrounded by family and friends.

6. Which Canary Island is best for a destination wedding?

The best Canary Island for your wedding depends on your style, guest list, and vision. Tenerife is popular for its variety of luxury hotels, beach venues, and dramatic landscapes. Lanzarote appeals to couples looking for something more unique, with volcanic scenery and boutique venues. Gran Canaria offers a mix of beaches, resorts, and historic towns.

All islands benefit from year-round sunshine and excellent flight connections from the UK. Choosing the right island often comes down to atmosphere, venue options, and ease of travel for your guests.

7. What is the best time of year to get married in the Canary Islands?

One of the biggest advantages of the Canary Islands is their mild climate throughout the year. The most popular months for weddings are April to October, when temperatures are warm and daylight hours are long.

Summer months (June to September) are ideal for beach weddings but can be busier and warmer. Spring and autumn are popular with UK couples who want pleasant weather without peak-season crowds. Even winter weddings are possible, making the Canary Islands an attractive option for couples seeking sunshine outside the UK wedding season.

8. Do our guests need passports or visas to attend a wedding in the Canary Islands?

Yes, UK citizens travelling to the Canary Islands need a valid passport. Since the Canary Islands are part of Spain and the Schengen Zone, UK passport holders can visit for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism purposes.

Your passport must meet current travel requirements, including having sufficient validity remaining. It’s always a good idea to advise guests to check passport expiry dates well in advance. No special visa is required for attending a wedding, as it is considered a tourist visit.

9. Can we combine our wedding and honeymoon in the Canary Islands?

Absolutely. Many UK couples choose to combine their wedding and honeymoon in the Canary Islands, which can save time and reduce travel costs. The islands offer a wide range of honeymoon-style resorts, adults-only hotels, and luxury villas.

Couples often marry in one location and then move to a quieter resort or neighbouring island for their honeymoon. With beaches, spa hotels, and scenic landscapes all close by, the Canary Islands are ideal for relaxing after your wedding celebrations without the need for long-haul travel.

10. Do we need a wedding planner to get married in the Canary Islands?

While it’s possible to organise a wedding in the Canary Islands independently, many UK couples choose to work with a wedding planner or specialist in destination weddings. A planner can help manage local suppliers, language barriers, legal paperwork, and timelines.

This is particularly helpful for legal weddings, where Spanish documentation and processes can be complex. Even for symbolic ceremonies, having local expertise can reduce stress and ensure everything runs smoothly, allowing couples to enjoy their wedding experience from start to finish.