A notice of intention to marry is displayed on a Consular notice board for a clear 21 days. Where one of the parties to the forthcoming marriage is resident in the UK and will come to the marriage ceremony shortly before it is to take place they should approach the nearest Spanish Consulate in the UK to obtain information regarding the procedures involved. If proof of UK residence is needed, a letter can be obtained from the local Electoral Registration Office to the effect that the UK resident is on the electoral register for the year in question. It is important to note that paperwork can be lengthy and time consuming and ample forward planning is necessary, especially where a marriage is to be celebrated during the summer months. There are no facilities for marriage at a British Consulate in Spain.
Some foreign consulates do provide a service for their nationals however.
Gibraltar Where marraige in Spain is not practical, Gibraltar can offer a possible alternative. It is quite straightforward and the ceremony takes place in English. It is advisable but not essential to book the registrar several weeks ahead. This can be done by telephone. The paperwork should be completed the previous day as a special licence is required for non residents.