Same-sex marriage in Colombia

Legal history and court rulings

Before 2016, same-sex couples could register de facto unions starting in 2007. These registrations provided access to certain health and pension benefits. However, full marriage equality remained out of reach for nearly a decade. In 2011, the Constitutional Court ordered Congress to pass legislation allowing same-sex marriage within two years. When lawmakers failed to act, the court allowed notaries to perform solemn contracts for these couples. This interim measure created legal uncertainty until the final 2016 ruling clarified that all such contracts were valid marriages.

Legislative attempts and debates

Multiple bills to legalize same-sex marriage were introduced in Congress between 2007 and 2015. Some enjoyed support from political figures, including President Álvaro Uribe, who backed an earlier civil union proposal. Despite passing the Chamber of Representatives, these measures often stalled or were rejected in the Senate. Conservative groups frequently opposed the legislation, arguing that marriage should remain defined as a union between a man and a woman. The failure of legislative action ultimately pushed the issue back to the judiciary for resolution.

Implementation and statistics

Since legalization, thousands of same-sex weddings have taken place across the country. Notaries and judges perform these ceremonies, which must be registered with the National Civil Registry. Data shows significant numbers in Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali. By mid-2026, approximately 18,000 same-sex marriages had been recorded. The government also began recognizing marriages performed abroad in March 2016, granting spouses equal visa and inheritance rights. Divorces following these unions are processed through standard civil channels.

Religious and social context

The Catholic Church, the largest religious denomination in Colombia, opposes same-sex marriage. Its priests do not officiate at these ceremonies. Despite this opposition, the state ensures that civil authorities carry out their duties without discrimination. Judges who refuse to perform same-sex weddings face disciplinary action. In 2025, a judge in Cartagena was sanctioned for refusing to marry a same-sex couple, highlighting the enforcement of secular law over religious objection in civil matters.

How Same-sex marriage in Colombia is kept

Same-sex couples apply for marriage licenses at local notary offices or courts. They exchange vows and rings in a civil ceremony conducted by a notary or judge. The union is then registered with the National Civil Registry. Couples can also formalize their relationship through de facto union registrations if they prefer, though marriage offers broader legal protections. The process is identical to opposite-sex marriages, ensuring equal treatment under the law.

When and where

Marriages can occur any day of the year. The legal framework was established in April 2016. Prior to this, solemn contracts were available from June 2013 onwards. The date of the wedding is chosen by the couple, subject to the availability of the officiant and registry office.

Ceremonies take place in notary offices, courts, or other designated venues across Colombia. Major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Cartagena see high volumes of these weddings. The practice is nationwide, supported by the Constitutional Court's mandate that all civil authorities must comply with the ruling.

What Same-sex marriage in Colombia means

The marriage symbolizes equal recognition of diverse families under the Colombian Constitution. It affirms the right of same-sex couples to form households with the same legal standing as opposite-sex couples. The ceremony represents a break from traditional definitions of family, embracing a broader understanding of love and commitment protected by law.

Who takes part

• The couple: Exchange vows and sign the marriage contract
• The notary or judge: Officiate the ceremony and register the union
• Witnesses: Sign the marriage certificate alongside the couple

If you are a guest

Guests attend the civil ceremony and reception. They may bring gifts or offer congratulations. There are no specific traditional customs for guests beyond general wedding etiquette. The focus remains on the legal and personal commitment of the couple.

Then and now

Same-sex marriage is fully legal and widely practiced. Recent years have seen increased visibility and acceptance. Disciplinary actions against non-compliant judges reinforce the rule of law. The community continues to grow, with more couples choosing to formalize their relationships through civil marriage.

On the wedding table

Symbols: The ring

Questions people ask about Same-sex marriage in Colombia

See also

Wedding registryA service that helps couples share their gift preferences with guests to avoid duplicates and unwanted items.Recognition of same-sex unions in ItalyThe legal framework that grants same-sex couples rights and protections in Italy.Unregistered cohabitation in IsraelLegal recognition for same-sex couples living together without a formal religious or civil wedding ceremony.Polygamy in UzbekistanThe practice of men taking multiple wives in a country where the law strictly forbids it.

Good reading and sources

• Colombia legalises same-sex marriageABC News Australia, Article
• BBC NEWS | AmericasBBC, Article
• Colombia legalizes same-sex marriageDeutsche Welle, Article
• Colombia legalises same-sex marriageABC News Australia, Article
• BBC NEWS | AmericasBBC, Article
• Colombia legalizes same-sex marriageDeutsche Welle, Article

• Same-sex marriage in Colombia on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Wedding customs differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-05.