How to Get a Marriage License in England

Want to get married in full British splendor? Then consider traveling to England for a ceremony fit for royalty. Here's how to qualify for a marriage license in the United Kingdom.

Instructions

STEP 1: Be sure you're both at least 18 years of age and not members of the same family.

STEP 2: File an application with the superintendent registrar, who is in charge of marriages in the district.

STEP 3: Remember that prior to applying, you must establish residency for seven days in the district where you'll be married.

STEP 4: Bring proof of identity, such as a passport or other official certificate.

STEP 5: Produce a divorce or death certificate if either of you has been married before.

STEP 6: Understand that you'll need to have proof of your eligibility to marry. Call the British consulate in New York City at (212) 745-0200 to ask about obtaining such a certificate.

STEP 7: Ask for a list of dignified venues from the registrar that have been officially sanctioned in England for civil marriage ceremonies.

STEP 8: Understand that you can opt to be married outside of the district only if you specify the location at the time of registration.

STEP 9: Allow 21 days to pass after registration before the marriage certificate will be issued.

STEP 10: Understand that instead of applying for the standard marriage certificate, you could opt for a marriage license, which requires a 15-day residency before you apply (instead of 7) but provides the license after 1 day instead of 21.

Tips & Warnings

--Contact the British Tourism Authority in New York by calling (800) 462-2748 for more information about British requirements. Ask how much it will cost, as the fees may vary from district to district.
--Since there's a three-week waiting period before you can marry in England, consider exchanging vows in Scotland if you're short on time, since there's no wait in that country.
--Be careful of marriage agents who say they can help you circumvent the residency requirements. If you make a false statement in your notice of marriage, you could be prosecuted for perjury.

 

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