Marriage in international waters: what is an international water marriage? 

International waters are areas of the sea located beyond 12 nautical miles from a country’s coastline, and therefore not subject to the territorial sovereignty of any single state. Getting married in international waters presents a range of legal challenges, as there are no universal laws governing such marriages.

International waters lie outside national jurisdictions, meaning marriage regulations vary depending on several factors.

Marriage in international waters: is it possible to marry in international waters? 

Getting married in international waters is technically possible, but its legality and validity depend on several factors, such as the flag under which the ship is registered, the laws of the country of registration, and the regulations of the couple’s country of origin.

Under international law, in international waters, the laws of the country to which the ship belongs are the only ones that apply, making the vessel’s registration a key element.

However, it is important to consider that while a marriage performed in international waters may be valid in the country to which the ship belongs, there is no guarantee that the couple’s country of origin will allow the registration of a marriage conducted at sea.

Marriage in International waters: How Does Marriage in International Waters Work? 

To get married in international waters, certain legal requirements must be met:

1. Ship’s Flag: According to international maritime law, a ship in international waters is considered an “extension of the territory” of the country under whose flag it is registered. This means the applicable laws aboard the ship are those of the country of registration.
2. Authorised Official: To make the marriage legal, an authorized official must be present to officiate the ceremony and certify the union. This could be the ship’s captain, if permitted by the laws of the country of registration, or a civil registrar specifically invited on board.
3. Legal Validity: The marriage must be recognized as valid by the country where the ship is registered. While the marriage conducted in international waters will be valid under the ship’s flag country, it must then be registered through a consulate in the couple’s country of origin.
4. Required Documents: As with any marriage, documents such as birth certificates, passports, and, in some cases, certificates of residency or documentation related to previous divorces or widowhood are required.
5. Regulations of the Country of Origin: Even if the marriage takes place in international waters, it is important to consider the laws of the couple’s country of origin to ensure the marriage can be legally registered there.

Marriage in International waters: advantages and disadvantages of a marriage in international waters 

Exclusive settings and greater freedom are certainly the best advantages of choosing to get married in international waters. The sea provides a unique backdrop compared to a land-based ceremony and allows for greater personalization of the wedding.

However, there are also disadvantages to consider, the foremost being the legal complexities involved in organizing a wedding in international waters.

Only a thorough understanding of international law can ensure that a ceremony in international waters is conducted smoothly and without issues.

Marriage in International waters: how can we help you? 

Getting married in international waters is a fascinating and adventurous choice, but it requires detailed planning to comply with both international and national laws. If you wish to have a legally recognized marriage in international waters rather than a simple symbolic ceremony, our team of international wedding lawyers and wedding planners, specializing in boat weddings, can help make your dream a reality, ensuring everything is conducted in accordance with the regulations. Contact us.