If you are dreaming of a magical wedding with dreamy features, you have probably considered Hawaii. This is not strange considering the island is one of the most fascinating places in the world. That is why many couples opt for a destination wedding in Hawaii. However, if you are a foreigner and would like to get married in Hawaii, you may wonder whether that is possible. This is one of the most common questions among foreign couples, so you are not alone.
In this blog, we will answer all the important questions related to international couples and Hawaii wedding requirements. Once you are done reading, you will know exactly what you need to get married in this gorgeous place.
Can Foreign Couples Get Married in Hawaii? All The Legal Requirements Explained
If you are a foreigner looking to get married in Hawaii, you are in luck because it is totally possible! The process you will go through is pretty much the same as what U.S. citizens experience.
Getting married in Hawaii is relatively straightforward in terms of paperwork and processes. Since Hawaii does not require U.S. citizenship or a blood test to obtain a marriage license, it is extremely convenient for couples from abroad. In other words, you can easily plan your destination wedding or elopement without any issues.
We always suggest filling out your marriage license application online beforehand so you can tackle it ahead of time. Once you are in Hawaii, you and your partner will need to present your application along with proof of your age – like a valid ID or driver’s license if you are over 18 – at a marriage license agent in person. If either of you has been married before, you will need to show proof that the previous marriage has ended.
One of the coolest things about eloping in Hawaii is that you can get your marriage license the same day and even tie the knot on the same day as long as it is a weekday (not a holiday) and during business hours. Just ensure that your ceremony takes place within 30 days of obtaining the license.
The cost is not bad either. The cost is approximately $65, which includes a $60 application fee and a $5 administrative fee. So, you can have a dreamy wedding without breaking the bank for these administrative parts of the celebration.
Overall, the whole process is usually quite quick. If you are planning ahead, it is smart to get everything sorted early, but we have actually seen couples fill out the paperwork, pay the fee, and book an officiant all in just a couple of hours. We would not recommend rushing it like that, but it is definitely possible!
What Island Should You Choose for Your Big Day?
When it comes to choosing the perfect spot for your destination wedding in Hawaii, it is definitely a tough decision! We could chat for ages about the pros and cons of each island since there are many of them. With several fantastic islands to choose from, each offering stunning locations, it really helps to think about which one aligns best with what you are looking for.
- Kauai
Kauai is one of our favorites. It is less developed than some of the other islands, yet it still has plenty of direct flights from the mainland. To truly appreciate the beauty here, you will want to take a helicopter ride, go on a boat tour, or enjoy some serious hiking. But do not worry, there are plenty of serene beaches where you can just unwind, too.
- Oahu
Then there is Oahu. It is the most populated island, making it easy to score great flight deals. Oahu offers a nice blend of raw beauty and convenience. You will find incredible hiking, stunning beaches, and amazing food.
- Maui
Maui is another great option – it is incredibly diverse with everything from nature to luxurious resorts, and you can easily find good flight options. Plus, there are a lot of venues you can pick from for your big day. Whatever your idea of a wedding is can be achieved in Maui.
- Big Island
Last but not least is the Big Island, which is huge! In fact, it is bigger than all the other islands combined. This size gives you tons of unique and remote spots for a private wedding celebration. Moreover, it comes with the most varied climates in such a small area, so whether you are dreaming of a jungle, beach, desert, or even snow, you can find it all here.
When to Get Married in Hawaii?
Hawaii has two primary seasons: the dry season, from May to October, and the rainy season, from November to April. However, do not let the rain scare you off! Many venues are well-equipped for various weather, and a little rain can actually enhance the beauty and excitement of your celebration photos.
Moreover, the temperature difference between the two seasons is pretty small, usually around 15 degrees from July to January. If you are planning to take pictures outdoors, aiming for sunrise or sunset generally gives you the best lighting. However, if you are in more jungle-like areas, midday can work better since they have less direct sunlight.
Should You Get a Photographer for Your Bridal Celebration in Hawaii?
Hiring a professional photographer for your destination wedding in Hawaii is definitely worth it! It guarantees that you will not miss any important moments and you will have stunning, high-quality photos to cherish forever. Plus, local photographers know all the best locations and lighting conditions, which can really enhance the experience of your destination wedding and make everything feel more genuine and relaxed.
Conclusion
As you can see, getting married in Hawaii is not a problem for foreign couples. The process is simple, meaning you will easily plan everything – whether you want a big celebration or a small, intimate wedding.
For more information, check out our Locations and Services pages. Need more tips? Then feel free to browse through our blog. And if you are ready to say your ‘I Dos,’ contact us!