Let’s be real, we are obsessed with our Canadian couples. I mean, because of Canada, we get the pure magic of Schitt’s Creek, Sullivan’s Crossing, and the iconic Kaitlyn Bristowe. We won’t forget those cultural phenomena. Now, if you are ready to elope in America as a Canadian, we have the guide for you. 

We have written an entire series on eloping across the Atlantic, but what about couples who want to elope here? We heard you, and we came ready to deliver. BUT! Before we get started, we want to acknowledge that all U.S. borders have heightened security and enhanced screening measures as of 2025, and we assume that will continue all the way through 2029. That being said, we are committed to planning your best day ever, regardless of the current political climate. Love is love, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you and your honey!

BTW we have worked with international couples before, and it’s as much fun for us as it is for you! It’s like the most fun double date ever, where we get a cultural difference crash course and laugh the whole time. Can’t wait to show you the best of America!

How to Travel When You Elope in America as a Canadian

First up, the documents. No docs, no travel. We will always defer you to the government agencies for the up to date information. Check out:

Visiting the U.S. – Documents required for Canadian Citizens / Residents / Landed Immigrant to enter the U.S. and how long they can stay

Canadian citizens traveling to the United States by land or sea are required to present one of the travel documents listed below, and may generally visit the United States for up to six months. CBP will accept:

• Canadian passport
• Enhanced Driver’s License/Enhanced Identification Card
• NEXUS, FAST/EXPRES
• SENTRI enrollment cards.

Download an app

Pro tip, get with the digital age. Download an app, our recommendation is The Global Entry Mobile Application | U.S. Customs and Border Protection

The Global Entry Mobile Application allows eligible Trusted Travel Members to submit their travel document and photo through a free, secure app on their smartphone or other mobile device. The use of the Global Entry Mobile Application streamlines your entry process into the United States by reducing passport control inspection time and wait time. 

Use of the Global Entry Mobile Application requires a valid Trusted Traveler Membership. Travelers who successfully use the application will no longer have to use a portal or kiosk, so totally worth it IMO. 

Make it Legal When You Elope in America as a a Canadian

Is a marriage in the US valid in Canada? Yes, you can legally wed in the U.S.! It’s crazy that I’ve written dozens of blogs on eloping abroad, and this is the first time I’ve written about eloping here. When I found out that a Canadian citizen get married in the USA, I was beyond stoked! WELCOME!

The process for a Canadian getting married in America is the same as an American getting married here so I’m well versed in what you may need. While the rules vary slightly between states (and counties!) the gist is the same. 

Marriage requirements

• State Laws: Marriage laws are determined by individual states. You’ll need to research the specific requirements of the state where you plan to get married. These may include:
  • Identification: A valid passport is generally accepted as identification. Some states may require additional documentation like birth certificates or Social Security numbers.
  • Eligibility to Marry: You may need to provide a divorce decree or death certificate if you’ve been previously married.
  • Waiting Periods: Some states have a waiting period between applying for a marriage license and the actual ceremony.
  • Witnesses: Some states require witnesses to be present during the ceremony. Psstt – we, as your photographers, count for this!
• Marriage License: You’ll need to apply for a marriage license at the local county clerk’s office. 

Currency

The United States uses the dollar. The exchange rate in August 2025 is $1 Canadian dollar to 0.73 U.S. cents. Although credit cards are probably the easiest way to go rather than trying to learn coins, there can be a 1%-3% transaction fee.

Here are some tips to avoid getting stuck with that fee, and also not carrying around cash, because we secretly loathe both options. 

• Apply for a credit card with no foreign transaction fees! Some credit cards are specifically designed for travel and offer this perk. Psst – also, if you find a credit card where you can rack up hotel points?? Our love language. 
• Use a prepaid travel card or debit card with no foreign transaction fees. See if your financial institution offers this! It can offer competitive exchange rates and no transaction fees for international use.

When to Elope in America

It definitely depends on your vision! If we go to coastal states like Florida or California, you can elope year-round. If you are interested in visiting national parks like Glacier, be aware that some roads shut down for the winter. My best advice is to start getting inspiration from blogs, Pinterest, and Instagram, and determine what you want. We can make anything happen once you know your vision! Ice princess? Mermaid vibes? A FREAKING helicopter?? If you can dream it, we can plan it and capture it!

Where to Elope in America

We are adventure elopement specialists, so all of our recommendations of where to elope in American as a Canadian are geared to those who are ready to get down and dirty and are looking for an experience to kick-start their marriage, not a photo shoot.

Glacier National Park, Montana

We’re obsessed with Glacier National Park. If you had a Banff wedding on your brain, you HAVE to see GPN! We have been long-standing advocates of Glacier photos, whether it’s Spring, Summer, or Fall. We once snuck in a Winter elopement with three feet of snow. Our point is, you never know WHAT you are going to get. That’s why it’s crucial to hire an experienced Glacier Park elopement photographer and be prepared for some adaptability! 

We’ve rounded up our top 8 Glacier National Park elopement inspirations below! While these aren’t all elopements, all are a kick ass time, and we can talk about any of the photos that fit your vibe. This includes planning your own elopement, engagement, 2-day wedding, day after session, etc. 

Glacier National Park Elopement Inspiration – Top 8

Lake Tahoe, California

Think Lake Louise, but in California! We have experience working with international couples! When I ask our Australian visitors what made them decide to pick Lake Tahoe to elope, Lisa said, “We love freshwater lakes and spend most of our weekends camping by them and boating on them!” SOOO of course a California Elopement in Lake Tahoe is perfect for them! L&A are from Australia and include their wedding in Lake Tahoe as part of an 8-week vacay! From a sunrise hike, a secluded spot to say their vows, a walk to a secret beach, and morning boating to cap it all off, this day couldn’t have been any more of an ADVENTURE!

California Elopement in Lake Tahoe – sunrise hikes & boating!

Moab, Utah

We just can’t quit Moab. Situated among the winding Colorado River, Moab’s unique community provides for a variety of elopement adventures. Think: countless hiking trails, UTV trails, white water rafting, horseback riding, mountain biking, and, of course, beautiful places to elope. From Moab, the infamous Arches National Park is just 6 miles away, while Canyonlands National Park is 32 miles away.

Moab is gorgeous and accessible throughout the year, but there are a few times that are better than others. Summer months are hot (100°F+), and if you go in winter, you can expect temperatures around 30-50°F and as low as 0-20°F. So, the best time to go to Moab? You really can’t go wrong if you love adventure. Working together, we can help you plan for any season. Temperatures are ideal for adventuring in April, May, September, and October. Plan for a weekday to avoid crowds!

Las Vegas, Nevada

Can a Canadian marry an American in Las Vegas? Abso-fucking-lutely. And guess what? Vegas isn’t all sparkles and slot machines. That is the very small portion of the Las Vegas strip. We can have an epic off-road adventure. A lot of rock climbers MOVE to Vegas for its cliffs. Like, we don’t talk about Las Vegas enough in the adventure elopement space, and my bad on that. Fly in, catch a residency concert, then go out into the wiiiiiild for your ceremony, which can be like a twenty-minute drive. Basically, there a million options for your wedding venue in Las Vegas, from super traditional to completely unique, to Elvis. Your wedding, your way. 

How to Get Around

You will need to plan to rent a car when you elope in America as a Canadian. Our public transportation is scarce. PLUS, when you rent a car, you can have a two-day elopement! While we always recommended two days because it’s just so much fun and this day is a BFD, we almost necessitate it for our international trips. Whether it’s a couple coming here or an American couple abroad. Day two is so much fun with activities in another country!!

Let’s Plan Your American Adventure Elopement

If you’re thinking “Yasss Kelssss,” let’s get a call set up so you can elope in America as a Canadian! No strings, just me learning more about you and your soon-to-be spouse. I want to learn about your interests, the ideas you have, and your unique love story. If you’re freaking out and overwhelmed, you’re in good company. Most couples have not done this before, so I am your wedding guide guru in addition to your kickass photographer. Let’s make you dream elopement official, baby!