Legal Requirements for Getting Married in the UK

The legal side of a wedding is simpler than it sounds, but the rules differ across the UK and the deadlines are strict. Here's an overview — always confirm the current requirements with your local register office or on GOV.UK, nidirect or the National Records of Scotland before you book.

England and Wales

• Both of you must give notice in person at your local register office, usually in the district where you live, and you must have lived there for at least seven days beforehand.
• Notices are publicly displayed for 28 days, so you need to give notice at least 29 days before the wedding. The notice is valid for 12 months.
• You'll need proof of name, age, nationality and address, plus documents such as a decree absolute or death certificate if you've been married before.
• A civil ceremony must take place at a register office or an approved venue. Religious ceremonies follow the rules of the relevant faith.
• You need two witnesses, and both of you must be 18 or over.

Scotland

• Each of you submits marriage notice forms to the registrar in the district where you will marry, at least 29 days before the wedding (10–12 weeks is recommended).
• Scotland allows more freedom over location, and belief ceremonies such as humanist weddings can be legally recognised when conducted by an authorised celebrant.
• The minimum age to marry in Scotland is 16.

Northern Ireland

• Submit marriage notice forms to the registrar in the district where you'll marry, ideally eight weeks before and at least 28 days before.
• Civil ceremonies can take place at register offices or approved places; humanist and other belief ceremonies may also be legally recognised.

Celebrant-led ceremonies

Many couples choose a celebrant for a personal, flexible ceremony. In some parts of the UK you may need a short legal registration separately, so check the current position before planning.

Frequently asked questions