Marriage in Saint Martin (French side)
Saint Martin is divided into two parts:
- The northern French side (Saint-Martin, a French overseas collectivity)
- The southern Dutch side (Sint Maarten, part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
This answer focuses on marriage laws and customs in the French side of Saint Martin.
Legal Requirements for Marriage in French Saint Martin
Saint Martin follows French civil law, so marriages are governed by the French Civil Code.
Basic Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Age | 18 years for both men and women (parental consent required under 18) |
| Gender | Same-sex marriage is legal (since 2013, as in France) |
| Consent | Both parties must consent freely and fully |
| Civil Ceremony | Only civil marriages are legally recognized in France and Saint Martin; religious ceremonies are optional and non-binding |
| Residence Requirement | One of the partners must reside in Saint Martin for at least 30 consecutive days prior to the civil ceremony (for non-residents) |
Required Documents
For foreigners or residents marrying in Saint Martin, typical documents include:
- Birth certificates (issued within the last 3 months, translated into French)
- Valid passports or IDs
- Proof of address/residence
- Certificate of celibacy (attesting you’re not already married)
- Certificate of publication of banns (marriage notice)
- If previously married: Divorce decree or death certificate of former spouse
All foreign documents must be officially translated into French and sometimes apostilled.
The Marriage Process
- File paperwork at the Mairie (Town Hall)
- Marriage banns posted for 10 days
- Civil ceremony performed at the Mairie
- Marriage certificate issued (recognized internationally)
Religious or symbolic ceremonies can follow the civil wedding but have no legal standing unless the civil marriage has already taken place.
Types of Marriage
| Type | Legal? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Civil marriage | Yes | Only legal form of marriage |
| Religious marriage | Not legal unless preceded by a civil one | |
| Same-sex marriage | Yes | Legal under French law |
| Customary/Traditional | Not recognized legally | |
| Common-law unions (concubinage) | Not legally binding, but recognized for some social benefits |
Local Marriage Culture
- Ceremonies often blend French civil traditions with Caribbean cultural elements.
- Popular venues include beach resorts, villas, and churches.
- Music, colorful attire, and Creole or French cuisine are often included in the celebrations.
