Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Mauritius: A Step-by-Step Guide for UK Couples

If you’re wondering about the legal requirements for getting married in Mauritius as a UK couple, the good news is that the process is far more straightforward than many people expect. Whether you are planning a legally recognised marriage or a symbolic wedding ceremony, Mauritius offers one of the simplest and most reliable systems for British nationals marrying abroad.

Planning a destination wedding should feel exciting. Not like you’re applying for a mortgage.

Can UK Citizens Legally Marry in Mauritius?

Yes.

British nationals can legally marry in Mauritius without needing to register or notify UK authorities beforehand.

As long as you follow Mauritian law, your marriage will be legally recognised in the UK.

There is no need to register the marriage again once you return home.

Step 1: Decide Between a Legal or Symbolic Wedding in Mauritius

Before we talk paperwork, this is the first decision to make.

Legal Wedding

A legally binding marriage conducted under Mauritian law and recognised in the UK.

This requires documentation, minimum stay requirements and advanced approval.

Symbolic Wedding

A non-legally binding ceremony.

Ideal for:

• Couples already legally married
• Vow renewals
• Same-sex couples
• Couples who prefer to handle the legalities in the UK

No legal documents required.
No residency requirements.
Complete flexibility in location and format.

Symbolic weddings in Mauritius are especially popular with couples who want a relaxed celebration without legal paperwork delays.

Mauritius allows you to marry almost anywhere. On the beach, in tropical gardens, on a boat, even underwater if you are feeling particularly adventurous.

However, it is important to note that legal same-sex marriages are not currently recognised under Mauritian law. Same-sex couples are warmly welcomed for symbolic ceremonies across many luxury resorts.

Step 2: Minimum Residency Requirement

For a legal wedding in Mauritius, you must arrive on the island at least 3 working days before the ceremony. This isn't a strict law, but a requirement from many resorts to ensure paperwork and preperations can be made timeously. 

Working days means weekdays only.

For example:

If your wedding is on Friday, you must arrive no later than Tuesday.

Many couples choose to arrive earlier to relax and avoid any last-minute stress.

Step 3: Required Documents for UK Couples

Each partner must provide original documents.

You will need:

• Valid passport
• Full birth certificate (issued within 3 months of the wedding date)
• Decree absolute (if previously married)
• Previous marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Death certificate (if widowed)

Documents are typically submitted in advance for approval before you travel.

Your travel agent and resort wedding coordinator will normally guide you through this process step by step.

Step 4: Special Considerations

If the bride has been divorced within the previous 10 months, Mauritian law requires a locally issued medical certificate confirming she is not pregnant.

This is arranged in Mauritius and your coordinator will assist.

It is not something to panic about. It is simply part of the legal framework.

Step 5: The Civil Status Office Visit

For legal marriages, you will attend a brief appointment with the Civil Status Office in Mauritius a day or two before the ceremony.

This is where documents are verified and formal declarations are made.

Your reosrt or planner will arrange transport and appointment, along with all necessary fees often included as part of your complete wedding package. 

The ceremony itself is then conducted by a licensed Marriage Officer.

After the Ceremony: What Happens Next?

After your wedding:

• You will receive an official Mauritian marriage certificate
• This certificate is legally recognised in the UK
• No further registration in Britain is required

You may wish to order additional certified copies for name change purposes.

How Long Does the Whole Legal Process Take?

From a planning perspective, couples should begin considering the legal process at the point of booking by ensuring they either already have, or can obtain, all required documentation within the correct timeframe.

Exactly three months before the wedding date, you should apply for a newly issued full birth certificate (as this must be dated within three months of the ceremony) and begin gathering the rest of your paperwork.

This allows time for:

• Obtaining original copies
• Scanning and submitting documents for review
• Approval from the Mauritian authorities
• Resort coordination and confirmation

Last-minute bookings are sometimes possible, but earlier preparation provides greater flexibility and significantly reduces stress.

Why Mauritius Is Considered One of the Simplest Legal Destinations

Mauritius remains popular with UK couples because:

• Marriage is legally recognised in the UK
• Documentation requirements are straightforward
• No blood tests are required
• Resorts are experienced in handling the legal process
• English is widely spoken

Compared to some other destinations, the process is refreshingly uncomplicated.

Common Questions About Legal and Symbolic Weddings in Mauritius

Is a Mauritius marriage certificate valid in the UK?
Yes. A marriage legally conducted in Mauritius is recognised under UK law.

Do we need to register our marriage again in the UK?
No. Once legally married in Mauritius, no further registration is required.

Can we legally marry on the beach?
Yes, provided all legal requirements have been completed in advance.

Can same-sex couples legally marry in Mauritius?
Currently, legal same-sex marriages are not recognised under Mauritian law. However, symbolic ceremonies are widely supported across many luxury resorts.

Planning a Legal Wedding in Mauritius

The paperwork is not complicated. But it does need to be handled correctly and submitted on time.

I planned my own wedding in Mauritius and have since supported numerous UK couples through the legal process. Knowing when to submit documents, how long approvals take and what to double-check can make the experience entirely stress-free.

If you are considering a legal wedding in Mauritius in 2026 or 2027, it is worth having a clear conversation early on so nothing is left to chance.

And then you can focus on the part that really matters.

The ocean. The sunset. And saying yes in a place that feels extraordinary.

If you are still weighing up budgets, you may also find it helpful to read my full breakdown of how much a wedding in Mauritius costs for UK couples.

To help you narrow it down even further, here are my The Top 5 Mauritius Resorts for destination weddings.