Celebrate in Paris

Legally marrying in France requires at least one partner to have lived in the country for a minimum of 40 consecutive days before the wedding. For most non-European citizens, this makes a legal civil marriage in France difficult. Instead, many couples do the paperwork in their home country and then host their symbolic or religious ceremony in France.

Whether you need a visa depends entirely on your nationality. Some countries are exempt from short-stay visas for up to 90 days, while others require applying in advance through the French consulate. The process can take several weeks, so it's best to check early, ideally 3 months before your trip. To confirm your case, use the official tool: France-Visas Assistant.

French civil ceremonies are always conducted in French, and the mayor or registrar is required to perform it that way. However, you can hire a professional interpreter. For symbolic or religious ceremonies, you have full freedom to choose your native language.

Technically, you can plan a wedding in France on your own, but local contracts, language, and cultural nuances make it a challenge. Many of the most exclusive venues in Paris don't even take public bookings; they open only through trusted planners with established relationships.

From €4,500 per guest. This covers the entire celebration: venue, starred chef, a signature dessert, artistic direction of the evening. Guest accommodation and travel are additional.