Civil Status In Spanish: Married Life Explained Simply

Quick Links :

Marriage is a significant milestone in anyone's life, and understanding the intricacies of married life in a foreign country can be overwhelming. For those interested in living in Spain or already residing there, comprehending the concept of civil status, particularly in the context of marriage, is essential.

In Spain, civil status, or "estado civil" in Spanish, refers to an individual's marital status, which is a crucial aspect of their personal and legal identity. The country's civil code, or "Código Civil," governs the laws and regulations surrounding marriage, divorce, and other aspects of civil status.

Types of Civil Status in Spain

In Spain, there are several types of civil status, including:

• Soltero/a (single)
• Casado/a (married)
• Divorciado/a (divorced)
• Viudo/a (widowed)
• Separado/a (separated)

Marriage in Spain

To get married in Spain, couples must meet certain requirements and follow a specific process. Here are the general steps:

1. Obtain a marriage certificate: The couple must obtain a marriage certificate, or "certificado de capacidad matrimonial," from the Spanish authorities.
2. Publish the marriage announcement: The couple must publish the marriage announcement, or "anuncio de matrimonio," in the local town hall or civil registry office.
3. Get married in a civil ceremony: The couple must get married in a civil ceremony, or "matrimonio civil," which can be performed by a judge or a civil registrar.
4. Register the marriage: After the ceremony, the marriage must be registered with the Spanish authorities.

Marriage Ceremony in Spain

The marriage ceremony in Spain is a relatively simple process. It typically involves the couple, two witnesses, and a judge or civil registrar. The ceremony is usually conducted in Spanish, but it can be translated into other languages if necessary.

Divorce in Spain

Divorce in Spain is a relatively straightforward process, especially since the country introduced the "divorcio exprés" (express divorce) law in 2005. This law allows couples to divorce quickly and easily, without the need for lengthy court proceedings.

To get divorced in Spain, couples must meet certain requirements, including:

1. Residency: One of the spouses must be a resident in Spain.
2. Marriage duration: The couple must have been married for at least three months.
3. Mutual consent: Both spouses must agree to the divorce.

Separation in Spain

Separation in Spain is a process that allows couples to live apart while remaining married. This can be a temporary solution for couples who are experiencing difficulties in their relationship.

To get separated in Spain, couples must meet certain requirements, including:

1. Residency: One of the spouses must be a resident in Spain.
2. Marriage duration: The couple must have been married for at least six months.
3. Mutual consent: Both spouses must agree to the separation.

Effects of Separation in Spain

Separation in Spain can have significant effects on the couple's life, including:

1. Property division: The couple's property will be divided according to the terms of the separation agreement.
2. Child custody: The couple must agree on child custody and visitation rights.
3. Financial support: One spouse may be required to provide financial support to the other.

Conclusion

Married life in Spain can be complex, but understanding the country's civil status laws and regulations can help couples navigate the process. From marriage and divorce to separation and child custody, it's essential to be aware of the rules and requirements that govern civil status in Spain.

If you have any questions or concerns about civil status in Spain, we encourage you to leave a comment below. Share this article with your friends and family who may be interested in learning more about married life in Spain.