By Distant Vows | Published on September 27, 2025
Getting married online in China usually means two different things:
- A fully online wedding under Chinese law (not available), and
- A legal online marriage performed by a foreign jurisdiction (for example, a U.S. county that allows remote ceremonies) that you then use in China once it’s properly apostilled and translated.
This guide covers the second route—the practical way couples living in China get legally married online and then use the certificate for visas, residence permits, banking, HR, and everyday admin (for example, a U.S. county that allows remote ceremonies) that you then use in China once it’s properly apostilled and translated.
With Distant Vows, you can easily get married online in China and receive a U.S. marriage certificate
Can You Legally Get Married Online in China?
Yes, via a foreign authority. If your online wedding in China is valid where it’s celebrated and you meet capacity rules, China generally accepts the foreign marriage certificate once it’s correctly apostilled (China accepts apostilles) and translated into Chinese where required. You do not re-register a foreign marriage in China; you use the foreign certificate as your proof.
Who Can Get Married Online In China?
- Foreign couples living in China (work/study/residence).
- Mixed-nationality couples (one Chinese citizen, one foreign national).
- Chinese citizens marrying a foreigner abroad via an online jurisdiction.
(For two PRC citizens, check recognition locally before proceeding.)
The Fastest Way To Marry In China Is A Virtual Marriage
The fastest way to get married in the China today is through an online marriage platform such as Distant Vows. Instead of facing delays, couples can complete the entire process online application from start to finish in less than 20 minutes.
Four Steps To Get Married Online In China
- Confirm your eligibility to get married.
- Book a date and choose a wedding package.
- Complete the online application process. You and your partner will both need valid government issued IDs.
- Attend your online wedding ceremony with your 2 witnesses and guests. You are now officially married!
Get Married Online with Distant Vows
Make your online marriage simple and stress-free. With Distant Vows, you get step-by-step help through the online marriage application process, reliable licensed officiants, we can provide witnesses, and we’ll deliver a recorded video of your virtual wedding ceremony.