Yes, foreigners can get married in Vegas
You don’t have to be American or even speak much English. There’s no residency rules and it can be done in mere minutes.
Here’s what you need to prepare:
- Passport (or other government photo ID) to prove that you’re 18+ and legally single.
- Online pre-application: This will speed up the process, but not strictly mandatory. You can also fill out the form in person.
- $102 license fee. No cash accepted, debit or credit card only.
- One witness. Anyone over 18 will do and most chapels can provide one; it does not have to be someone you know.
- Licensed Nevada officiant. Your Elvis must be on the state’s official list.
Grab the license, walk next door to a chapel, and you’re eligible to say “I do” immediately. The license is valid for a year, so you could even stash it for a future trip if cold feet strike.
Will your home country recognize it?
Okay, so this is where you need to do a bit more research. A Vegas marriage is legally binding worldwide, but you may need to talk to embassies or consulates ahead to find out if there are additional steps to have your Vegas marriage recognized in your country.
In some countries, it’s enough to just register the marriage again locally, while in others, you may need an apostille stickers on your certificate or have the paper translated.
Quick FAQ before you say “I do”
Can you really get a quick wedding in Vegas if you’re not American?
Yes, if you’ve pre-applied online, have a passport in your pocket, and a witness handy.
It’s just a joke, right? You can easily change your mind and annul it tomorrow.
It’s a bona-fide, legally-binding marriage; annulments will require legal grounds.
Do you really need Elvis?
No, it can be any other officiant, but how fun does it look!
Will my marriage be recognized back home?
There might be some bureaucratic hoops to jump through. Get information from embassies or consulates in advance.
Even if you don’t marry, it’s a fun side trip
The Marriage License Bureau sits steps from Fremont Street’s retro neon and a short ride from the Strip. The wacky chapels make for really good pictures and many also welcome tourists for photo tours.
Beyond the wedding scene, visitors can:
- Explore the Neon Museum’s glowing sign graveyard
- Catch a fountain show at the Bellagio
- Take a ride on the High Roller observation wheel for panoramic city views.
- Enjoy themed attractions like the Venetian’s indoor canals, art exhibits, and world-class dining
With nonstop international flights, a Vegas pit-stop en route to L.A. or New York can double as a wild travel story, even if you leave town single.
