The Truth About Eloping Abroad: Permits, Paperwork & How to Not Accidentally Break the Law

You booked the flights. You found the dress.

You pinned that dramatic cliffside in Santorini or the whispering Icelandic valley that’s been haunting your For You Page for weeks.

But here’s the part no one talks about when they say, “Just elope!”

Did you know it’s illegal to get married in many European locations without a local permit or recognized officiant?

Or that some countries won’t legally recognize your marriage unless specific documents are translated and apostilled?

Welcome to the part of eloping abroad that doesn’t make it into the Pinterest boards.

Eloping Isn’t Just Romantic, It’s Also a Legal Ceremony

When you choose to elope abroad, you're not just running toward adventure—you're walking headfirst into international red tape. And if you don’t know what paperwork is required, you might wind up with stunning photos… and a marriage that’s not legally binding.

Every country (and sometimes every region) has its own rules:

• Italy requires a Nulla Osta (a certificate of no impediment)

• Iceland requires submission of documents at least 3 weeks before your wedding

• Many U.S. National Parks require paid special use permits—even just to take pictures!

This isn’t to scare you. This is to empower you with the truth before it becomes a problem.

What You Need to Do Before You Elope

Regardless of where you choose to elope, you'll want to secure a couple of things before you elope. First you'll want to decide whether your ceremony will be symbolic or legal. If it's merely symbolic then you won't be required to have a legal ceremony (and you can always perform the "legal" part later on) If your ceremony is going to be legal; you'll need to ensure you check local laws and regulations regarding the official ceremony and secure an officiant and the necessary paperwork. You'll also want to make sure that wherever you are going that you have the proper permits. If it's a beach you may need a permit to even take photos. If you're flying a drone or capturing drone footage; you'll also want to be very aware of the laws and regulations regarding this and if you have a photographer; ensure that they are even legally certified to fly a drone (Pssst - I am! But, there are many photographers that aren't!)

The Elopement Photography Industry’s Dirty Little Secret

Here’s the tea: most photographers won’t touch this stuff.

They’ll show up with their camera, hand you a bouquet, snap your magic… but leave you Googling permit requirements at midnight and wondering if your Airbnb elopement spot is technically trespassing.

But I'm not most photographers . . . and that's what sets me apart. I'm not just a destination elopement photographer. I'm an elopement educator and consultant.

PS - If you work with me here's what you'd get . . .

✨ FAA Certified Drone Pilot — which means I'm legally allowed to capture jaw-dropping aerial shots most photographers can’t.

✨ Ordained Officiant — I can legally marry you in most states and have actually done it

✨ Internationally Elopement-Savvy — I know the questions you haven’t even thought to ask: about park fees, ceremony locations, local marriage laws, permits, and the vendors who won’t ghost you the day of.

✨ Planning Partner — I'm not just another vendor on your list.

When you work with me you get a vibe architect. A logistics ninja.

A built-in calm presence who ensures you’re not crying in customs over missing documents.

Interested? Book a free consultation & let's have a conversation to see if we're a good fit! Click that link or visit: www.rachelsuephotography.com/inquire

PS - If you haven't already, be sure to grab my ELOPEMENT GUIDES!

These are the best place to start for any couple who's interested in eloping!

• Ultimate Elopement Guidebook (40+ pages, start here! Everything you need to know)

• Dream Destination Guide (90+ pages plus local rules & regulations)

• Elopement Planner + Workbook (50+ pages from overwhelm to organized!)