Following these steps will make your marriage just as valid as one in your home state. The validity of overseas marriages in the United States By finding out and following the rules in the foreign country in which you want to get married, the marriage will be considered valid in the United States. A marriage that is valid in the country that it is entered into is presumed valid everywhere unless there's definite proof that it is invalid. Americans might assume they should head straight for the U.S. Embassy with their bouquets, but American diplomatic and consular officers are not permitted to perform marriages. They will, however, prepare needed affidavits and authenticate foreign marriage documents.
Many countries require proof of legal capacity to enter in a marriage contract.
A competent authority must certify that no impediment to the marriage exists. Prospective brides and grooms may have to live in their chosen country for a certain amount of time before they're eligible to marry there. Unless you're a lawyer yourself and bilingual besides, you'll need help in figuring out just what the rules are. You can find out the requirements through the embassy or tourist information bureau of the country in which the marriage will be performed. Some general information for a limited number of countries can also be ordered from the Department of State, Overseas Citizens Services, Room 4811, Washington, D.C. 20520.