Marriage Certificate Questions

Why do I need a marriage license? In order to become married in Canada you must obtain a marriage license in the province that you will married in to be recognized legally as husband and wife. Apply no earlier than three months prior to your wedding ceremony as it expires after three months and you will have to re-register and pay all the applicable fees.

Where do I get my marriage license? You can obtain your license at any Vital Statistics Agency or qualified issuers such as a Notary. Please choose the Vital Statistics link below to find an office for your province.

When is the marriage license used? At your wedding ceremony. Your Wedding Officiant, Marraige Commissioner, Justice Of The Peace, or your religious representative will inform you when the event will take place during your ceremony. Normally it is completed after your vows. Both your and your mate will sign twice and then your Officiant will announce/introduce you as Husband and Wife - The new Mr. & Mrs. Last Name.

*Please note you will also have to have two witnesses sign the Marriage Certificate. Each Province has a different guideline for age requirements.

BC - No age requirement however recomends that they be atleast 12 years old. The witness needs to understand that they are a witness to a legally binding contract.

Alberta - 18 Years or older

Saskatchewan - 18 Years or older

For all other provinces please visit your Vital Statistic Agency

When do I receive my legal copy of my marriage certificate? Your marriage commissioner or religious representative will send these documents to Vital Statistics within 48 hours where it will be registered and a legal copy record will be kept, then you will receive a formal Marriage Certificate in the mail shortly after.

How much does a marriage license cost? Each province differ and can range from $50.00 to $150.00. On top of the license fees your Wedding Officiant, Marriage Commissioner and or Justice Of The Peace will charge you a ceremony fee between $25.00 to $125.00, some may also charge a rehearsal fee and a travel fee if it is far away.

Also See Name Change Check List

Find a Vital Statistics Agency for your province to obtain your marriage certificate/license

Do I have To Legally Change My Name?

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