Guide to Obtaining a Marriage Certificate in Brazil

Table of Contents

Description

What is it?

Obtaining a marriage certificate in Brazil involves a series of steps that ensure your marriage is legally recognized by the Brazilian government. This official document confirms the legal union between two people and includes essential information such as the date and location of the marriage, as well as the names and details of the spouses.

Who needs it?

This service is ideal for Brazilian citizens, foreign nationals marrying a Brazilian, or couples seeking legal recognition of their marriage in Brazil. It is especially relevant for those navigating the Brazilian bureaucracy for the first time, expatriates living in Brazil, and anyone needing to retrieve a past marriage certificate for legal or personal purposes.

Procedure

  1. Visit the local Civil Registry Office (Cartório) in the area where the marriage is to take place.
  2. Submit a ‘Notice of Intended Marriage’ and any required documents.
  3. Schedule and attend a marriage interview if necessary.
  4. Return to the Cartório on the appointed date for the marriage ceremony.
  5. Collect the official marriage certificate post-ceremony.

Required documents

  • Identification Document: Brazilian ID or passport for foreigners.
  • Proof of Address: Recent utility bill or rental agreement.
  • Birth Certificate: Obtainable from your place of birth or Cartório.
  • Previous Marriage Certificate (if applicable): Obtainable from relevant Civil Registry Offices.
  • Death Certificate or Divorce Decree (if applicable): For those who have been previously married.

Providers that can do it for you

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Additional details

  • Some areas may require additional documents depending on specific regional laws.
  • The process may involve fees for registration and obtaining certified copies.
  • It’s recommended to start the process well in advance of your intended marriage date to avoid any bureaucratic delays.
  • Non-Portuguese documents may need to be translated by a certified translator.

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