Types of Marriage in Guadeloupe
As an overseas department of France, Guadeloupe follows the French Civil Code, meaning all legally recognized marriages must comply with French civil law. However, cultural practices and traditions from Caribbean, African, and Indian roots still influence how people celebrate or view marriage.
1. Civil Marriage (Mariage civil) – Legally Required
- Only the civil ceremony is legally binding in Guadeloupe (as in all of France).
- Must be performed at the town hall (mairie) by a mayor or civil official.
- Open to:
- Opposite-sex and same-sex couples
- French citizens and foreigners (under certain legal conditions)
Requirements:
- Birth certificates
- Proof of residence
- IDs or passports
- Marriage application filed at least 10 days before the ceremony
- If previously married: Divorce or death certificates of the former spouse
2. Religious Marriage (Optional)
- Not legally recognized unless preceded by a civil ceremony.
- Can take place after the civil marriage.
- Most common in:
- Catholic Churches (majority religion)
- Protestant churches
- Hindu temples (among Indo-Guadeloupeans)
- Other spiritual or traditional settings
3. Traditional/Cultural Unions
Though not legally binding, some cultural forms of union still hold social value:
A. Union Libre (Common-law Union)
- Couples live together without marrying.
- Recognized for some legal and social benefits (especially with shared children).
B. Traditional Creole Ceremonies
- May include music, community feasts, and symbolic rituals.
- Influenced by African, Caribbean, and colonial traditions.
- Sometimes performed alongside civil or religious weddings.
C. Hindu Ceremonies
- Among Indo-Guadeloupeans, traditional Tamil or Hindu-style weddings may take place.
- Typically colorful and spiritual, involving rituals like fire blessings (Agni) and traditional dress.
4. Same-Sex Marriage
- Legal since 2013 (when France legalized same-sex marriage).
- Civil marriage is available to all couples regardless of gender.
5. Divorce and Marital Laws
- Governed by the French legal system.
- Divorce can be mutual or court-ordered.
- French law also protects:
- Spousal rights
- Children’s welfare
- Property and inheritance laws
