What are the differences between Civil, Religious and Renewal of Vows?
Mexico: Only the Civil ceremony is legally recognized. A Religious ceremony has no legal bearing and does not replace in any way the binding Civil Marriage. Please notice that on Saturdays in Playa del Carmen, Civil Ceremonies can be performed until 2:00pm. Once the Civil Ceremony is over, the couple receives a copy of the marriage license and the original is sent within 5-6 months directly to your home (please note that the Mexican Government can take longer to send these documents). Once the documents are received you should translate them into English and take them to City Hall for legalization. Religious ceremonies or Renewal of vows are symbolic. They are performed by a Non denominational Minister. The bride and groom will receive a symbolic marriage certificate without legal bearing. *Please notice that in Mexico Catholic ceremonies are not performed. Dominican Republic: Civil ceremonies are performed by a Judge and Catholic ceremonies are performed by a Priest. Both ceremonies a
