Requirements vary by country, but most South American destinations share similar rules for couples, especially for foreigners:

• Legal Age: Both parties must typically be at least 18 years old; parental consent may be required for younger couples.

• Valid Passports & Identification: Foreigners need valid passports; birth certificates may also be required.

• Proof of Single Status: Certificate of no impediment, affidavit of single status, or divorce/death certificates if applicable.

• Marriage License/Application: Couples usually must apply for a marriage license or register with local civil authorities before the ceremony.

• Witnesses: Generally, 1–2 witnesses are required during the ceremony.

• Medical Requirements: Some countries may require blood tests or health certificates, though this is becoming less common.

• Residency Requirements:

  • Some countries, like Brazil and Chile, may require a short residency period or advance paperwork submission.

  • Others, like Peru and Argentina, are more flexible with minimal residency requirements for foreigners.

• Civil or Religious Ceremony: Legal recognition usually requires a civil ceremony performed by an authorized official, even if a symbolic or religious ceremony is planned.

• Document Translations & Legalization: Foreign documents may need to be translated into the local language and legalized (apostille) for legal validity.