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Legal Wedding Requirements

The legal requirements vary by province, territories and even municipalities. We advise you visit the official government website for more information.

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In most cases, the following is required:

  • You need to be 16 years of age or older.  Under 18, you will need written consent from both your parents or the tribunal.

  • You must not be closely related by blood.

  • You must not be currently married; any previous religious or civil union must be legally dissolved.   

  • An authorized official must marry you: a religious official or an authorized civil clerk. Did we mention that we offer legal wedding officiant services in the province of Ontario? Get more details here

  • You need a marriage licence or a banns form.

 

After the ceremony, your officiant should register the marriage.

Then, you will apply for your marriage certificate.

In most cases, you can do so online.

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Same-sex marriages

Same-sex marriages are legal in Canada.

How to get a marriage licence

To get a marriage licence, you will need to:

  • bring 2 pieces of government-issued identification for each person getting married.  One piece of identification must include your photo.
    Examples of government-issued identification:

    • government-issued birth certificate, including any change of name certificates

    • valid passport

    • record of immigrant landing

    • Canadian Citizenship Card

    • valid driver’s licence

    • valid Ontario Photo Card

  • pay a fee (fees vary depending on the municipality)

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A marriage licence is valid for 90 days from the date it is issued.

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