Can You Get Married in Georgia Without Being a Resident?

Yes, you can absolutely get married in Georgia without being a resident, and the process is surprisingly straightforward! Whether you're a couple eloping from out of state, or even from another country, Georgia offers an accessible and smooth experience for non-resident marriages.

Now, you might be wondering why someone would choose to get married in Georgia if they don't live there. Maybe you're dreaming of a charming Southern wedding, or maybe Georgia's beautiful landscapes, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coast, appeal to your aesthetic. Or perhaps you're just seeking a destination with relaxed marriage laws compared to other states or countries. Regardless of your motivation, Georgia is open for business when it comes to non-resident weddings.

The Legal Details

Unlike some states that impose stricter residency requirements or waiting periods, Georgia has a reputation for being relatively flexible for out-of-state couples. To tie the knot in Georgia, you don’t need to establish residency, and the legal hurdles are minimal. In fact, as long as you meet a few basic requirements, you can get married quickly and with ease.

Here are the essential steps:

1. Apply for a Marriage License
   The first step to getting married in Georgia is obtaining a marriage license. You and your partner need to apply in person at a probate court. If neither of you are Georgia residents, you can apply for the license in any county. However, the marriage ceremony must take place in that county. For example, if you get your license in Chatham County (home to Savannah), you need to get married in Chatham County. If one of you is a Georgia resident, you can apply for the license in the resident's home county, and the ceremony can take place anywhere in the state.

2. Documentation
   Be prepared to bring government-issued identification (such as a driver's license or passport) and possibly a birth certificate, depending on the county. If either of you has been married before, you’ll also need documentation proving the dissolution of the previous marriage, such as a divorce decree or death certificate.

3. No Waiting Period
   One of the most convenient features of Georgia's marriage laws is the absence of a waiting period. Once you receive your license, you can get married right away. For couples eager to elope or schedule their ceremony on short notice, this is a huge advantage. Some states impose waiting periods ranging from one to five days, but in Georgia, you can walk out of the courthouse with your marriage license and get married the same day.

4. Marriage License Fees
   Expect to pay a fee when you apply for your marriage license, typically around $56. However, if you’ve completed a premarital counseling course, the fee drops to around $16. The cost and requirements for premarital counseling vary by county, so check ahead if you want to take advantage of the discounted fee.

5. Ceremony Options
   Once you have your marriage license, you can proceed with your wedding ceremony. Georgia allows both religious and civil ceremonies. Judges, magistrates, and religious officiants, including ministers and rabbis, can perform marriages. If you’re planning a quick courthouse wedding, the probate judge or magistrate in the county where you obtained your license can officiate the ceremony.

6. After the Wedding: Filing the License
   After your ceremony, the officiant will sign your marriage license. You’ll need to return it to the probate court for it to be officially recorded. Most counties handle this process within a few weeks, and once filed, you can request a certified copy of the marriage certificate for legal purposes, such as changing your name or updating marital status on government records.

Why Choose Georgia?

Apart from the straightforward process and lack of residency requirements, Georgia has a lot to offer couples looking for a unique and memorable wedding experience.

• Scenic Locations: Georgia’s natural beauty is diverse, offering everything from historic Savannah’s cobblestone streets and Spanish moss to the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. Coastal Georgia, with its islands like Tybee and St. Simons, provides a stunning backdrop for beach weddings.

• Southern Charm: Georgia has a rich history and vibrant culture that can add a distinct flavor to your wedding. Whether you’re after a grand plantation wedding or a cozy gathering in a small Southern town, there’s a setting for every couple.

• Flexible Laws: As mentioned, the lack of residency requirements, waiting periods, and overall flexibility of Georgia’s marriage laws make it an attractive option for couples. Whether you're planning months in advance or seeking a spontaneous ceremony, Georgia makes it easy.

International Couples: Destination Weddings in Georgia

For couples from outside the United States, Georgia is also a fantastic option. The process is simple for foreigners, and the marriage is legally recognized in most countries, provided you follow proper procedures. International couples will need the same documents as U.S. residents: passports, birth certificates, and proof of divorce or death of a previous spouse, if applicable.

Some international couples choose Georgia for its romantic settings, affordability, and ease of access. Cities like Savannah offer an Old World charm reminiscent of European cities, while the state’s rural areas offer idyllic farm and vineyard wedding venues. Couples flying in from abroad should consider planning ahead for logistics like securing visas, coordinating travel for guests, and ensuring their marriage will be recognized back home.

Other Considerations

While Georgia’s marriage laws are lenient, there are a few additional details to consider:

• Age Restrictions: You must be at least 18 years old to get married without parental consent. If you’re 16 or 17, you can marry with parental consent, but no one under 16 is permitted to marry in Georgia.

• Common-Law Marriage: Georgia no longer recognizes common-law marriages unless they were established before January 1, 1997.

• Blood Tests: Unlike some other states, Georgia does not require blood tests before you can get married.

• Same-Sex Marriage: Same-sex marriage has been legal in Georgia since the 2015 Supreme Court ruling, and all the laws regarding marriage apply equally to same-sex couples.

Pro Tips for Non-Resident Couples

If you’re traveling to Georgia for your wedding, consider these tips to ensure a smooth process:

1. Research the County: Different counties may have slightly different requirements or processes for obtaining a marriage license. Some counties allow online applications, while others require both parties to apply in person.

2. Plan for the Ceremony: If you’re planning to elope or have a courthouse wedding, make sure you contact the probate court in advance to schedule your ceremony with a judge or magistrate. Popular wedding destinations like Savannah or Atlanta may have busy schedules, so it’s best to plan ahead.

3. Travel Arrangements: Make sure you leave enough time to travel, apply for your marriage license, and have your ceremony. While the process is quick, you don’t want to be rushed, especially if you're coming from out of state or abroad.

4. Hire a Local Wedding Planner: If you're planning a larger destination wedding, hiring a wedding planner who’s familiar with the local venues, vendors, and laws can save you time and stress. They can help you navigate the logistics of planning a wedding from afar and make sure everything goes smoothly.

Conclusion: Georgia—The Perfect Spot for Non-Resident Weddings

Whether you're dreaming of a destination wedding in the South or simply want to avoid the legal hassles of marrying in your home state, Georgia offers a welcoming, flexible, and scenic backdrop for non-resident couples. From the ease of obtaining a marriage license to the beauty of its diverse locations, Georgia stands out as a top choice for weddings, even if you're not a resident. So pack your bags, pick your venue, and get ready to say “I do” in the Peach State!