• Jun 02, 2025
• By Brian

Destination Wedding Insurance Requirements by Country Planning a destination wedding is an exciting experience, but it also comes with unique challenges—especially when it comes to insurance

Different countries have varying legal and financial requirements for weddings, and securing the right coverage can protect you from unexpected cancellations, accidents, or legal issues. Below is a guide to destination wedding insurance requirements in popular wedding destinations.

1. United States

Liability Insurance:

Many venues require liability coverage (typically –2 million) for accidents or property damage.

Cancellation Insurance:

Optional but recommended due to weather risks (e.g., hurricanes in Florida or Hawaii).

Marriage License:

Varies by state; some require a waiting period.

2. Mexico

Civil Ceremony Insurance:

Some states require a blood test and a waiting period; non-religious ceremonies may need a local wedding planner.

Liability Coverage:

Often required by resorts (around million).

Travel Insurance:

Recommended due to frequent flight cancellations.

3. Italy

Legal Wedding Requirements:

Non-EU couples must file paperwork months in advance; symbolic ceremonies avoid this.

Venue Insurance:

Historic venues may require damage coverage.

Weather Insurance:

Recommended for outdoor weddings.

4. France

Civil Ceremony Rules:

Only legal if performed at a town hall; religious/symbolic ceremonies require separate paperwork.

Liability Insurance:

Often mandated for venues (€1–2 million).

Cancellation Protection:

Advised due to strict vendor contracts.

5. Greece

Religious Ceremony Rules:

Orthodox weddings require baptism certificates; civil ceremonies have simpler rules.

Venue Insurance:

Many locations require proof of coverage.

Travel Insurance:

Recommended for island weddings with ferry dependencies.

6. Caribbean (Jamaica, Bahamas, Dominican Republic)

Resort Requirements:

Most all-inclusive venues include basic insurance but may require supplemental liability coverage.

Hurricane Protection:

Wedding insurance with weather clauses is highly recommended.

Legal Fees:

Some countries charge extra for marriage licenses for foreigners.

7. Thailand

Legal Process:

Foreigners must submit affidavits and translations; Buddhist ceremonies are symbolic only.

Venue Deposits:

Non-refundable payments are common, making cancellation insurance essential.

8. Spain

Civil vs. Religious Weddings:

Non-residents face strict paperwork; many opt for symbolic ceremonies.

Liability Insurance:

Required for most venues (€1 million minimum).

9. Portugal

Legal Weddings:

Non-EU couples need a NIF (tax number) and residency proof; symbolic weddings are simpler.

Weather Insurance:

Coastal weddings benefit from cancellation coverage.

10. Bali, Indonesia

Hindu Ceremonies:

Symbolic only; legal weddings must be done abroad or at an embassy.

Vendor Insurance:

Some venues require damage deposits.

Final Tips for Destination Wedding Insurance

Check Local Laws:

Some countries require legal ceremonies to be separate from symbolic ones.

Review Vendor Contracts:

Many venues have strict cancellation policies.

Get Comprehensive Coverage:

Look for policies covering weather, illness, vendor no-shows, and liability.

By understanding insurance requirements in your chosen destination, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free wedding day. Always consult a local wedding planner or insurance expert for the latest regulations.

Would you like recommendations on specific insurance providers for these regions?