France

Department of Tourism website: www.us.franceguide.com
Image: copyright: Maison de la France

Many who think France, think love – and for good reason. Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world, French is the language of l’amour, the wines are exquisite, and the cuisine is unsurpassed.  There are settings in France that your dreams can embrace, no matter what your fancy – palaces, beaches, mountaintops, cathedrals….the list goes on!   France has all the ingredients for the perfect destination nuptials.

BUT, before you send out that “Save the Date” to all your friends and family, be sure to check the fine print on the wedding regulations page.  It is not easy to get legally married in France (see marriage regulations) and if you decide to move ahead, we recommend that you get help on the other side of the pond.  Or, plan on having a marriage ceremony here in the US, with a vow renewal or blessing in your destination of choice – and then say “bonjour” and begin planning.

Quick Facts

• Language:       French
• Passport:         Yes
• Currency:         euro
• Time Zone:       GMT + 1 (From the end of March until the end of October, time goes to GMT+2)
• Major Airports:  There are two international airports in Paris: Roissy-Charles de Gaulle and Orly.  Connections can be made to many of France’s regional airports as well.
• Weather:   France enjoys 4 seasons and in general has a very temperate climate.  The weather will vary depending on the climate zone of the location.   The Oceanic zone has average precipitation and cool summers, the Continental zone has colder winters and hot summers, the Mountain zone has snow 3-6 months of the year and the Mediterranean has mild winters and hot summers. 
  

Marriage Regulations

Getting legally married in France is quite challenging and we recommend that if this is the destination of your dreams, that you hire someone who can assist you with the process.  One of the biggest obstacles is the 40-day residency requirement.  It is also important to know that religious marriage ceremonies are not recognized under French law and must be preceded by a civil ceremony at a French town or city hall. 

You will need your passport or your French residence permit and a birth certificate. A French lawyer must draw up documents attesting to your right to marry and you will need a certificate of celibacy.

A medical exam by a French doctor must be performed, plus you will need to show proof of your 40 days of residency in the district where you will be married. An officially recognized French translator must translate all documents and a French translator must be present at the ceremony as well.

Articles:  Fall Winter 2006