How to Apply for a Marriage Licence UK

How to Apply for a Marriage Licence UK: The Definitive 2026 Guide

Published by LocalPage.uk Content Architecture Team | Updated for the 2025-2026 Legal Cycle | Professional Compliance Series

In the United Kingdom, the process of applying for a marriage licence—formally known as "giving notice"—is a fundamental legal requirement that ensures a union is recognised under the law. Whether you are a business owner in the hospitality sector hosting ceremonies or an individual navigating the bureaucracy, understanding the 2026 compliance landscape is essential. Marriage laws in the UK are devolved, meaning the procedure in England and Wales differs from those in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

240,000+ Marriages are projected to take place across the UK in 2026, contributing significantly to the £14.7 billion wedding industry (Office for National Statistics & Department for Business and Trade).

Determining Your Legal Eligibility and Venue Suitability

Before initiating any paperwork, it is vital to establish that both parties meet the basic legal criteria. Since the introduction of the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act 2022, the legal age for marriage in England and Wales is strictly 18, with no exceptions for parental consent. Scotland continues to allow marriage at 16 without consent, reflecting a distinct regional legal identity.

Establishing Residency Requirements for Giving Notice

To give notice in England or Wales, you must have lived in the registration district for at least seven clear days immediately before giving notice. This residency requirement is strictly enforced by local authorities and HMRC-aligned data verification systems. For those living in London or the South East—which accounts for 34% of the UK business and residential population—securing an appointment at a popular register office can require planning several months in advance.

Verifying Venue Licencing and Authorisation

If you are not marrying in a religious building, the venue must be "approved" by the local authority. Hospitality business owners should ensure their premises licence is up to date with the local council. Under the 2025-2026 regulations, venues must provide a safe and dignified environment, and the licence usually lasts for three years before requiring renewal. In Northern Ireland, the process is slightly different, where the Officiant must be authorised by the General Register Office for Northern Ireland (GRONI).

Legal Minimum Age Compliance

Ensure all parties are aware that since early 2023, the age of 18 is the hard floor for England and Wales. Professional services and wedding planners must verify this during initial consultations to avoid legal complications later in the application process.

The Step-by-Step Procedure for Giving Notice

Giving notice involves a face-to-face interview with a registrar. This is not merely a formality but a legal interview to ensure there are no impediments to the marriage. It must be done at least 29 days before the ceremony, though we strongly recommend a lead time of at least 10 to 12 weeks to account for administrative delays or Home Office referrals.

Booking Your Appointment at the Register Office

In 2026, most local authorities in England, such as those in Birmingham or Manchester, utilise digital booking systems. However, you must still attend in person. If you and your partner live in different registration districts, you must both give notice in your respective local offices. This creates a logistical challenge for couples living apart, which businesses in the "destination wedding" sector must account for in their planning timelines.

Documentary Evidence: What You Must Bring

The burden of proof lies with the applicants. You will typically need to provide a valid passport, proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement), and, if applicable, proof of the termination of any previous marriages (Decree Absolute or Death Certificate). For businesses operating in Wales, all documentation and the ceremony itself can be conducted bilingually through Business Wales-supported registrars.

2026 Strategic Tip: Digital evidence of address is increasingly accepted, but it must be a formal PDF download from a regulated UK financial institution or utility provider. Screenshots are generally rejected by registrars.

Special Considerations for Non-UK Nationals

If one or both parties are not British or Irish citizens and do not have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, the notice period may be extended from 28 days to 70 days. This allows the Home Office to investigate the application for potential "sham marriages."

Navigating the Home Office Referral Scheme

This referral scheme is a critical hurdle for international couples. In 2025, approximately 8% of all notices given in the UK were referred for further investigation. Businesses in the hospitality sector should be cautious about taking non-refundable deposits until the couple has successfully cleared the 70-day notice period if they fall into this category.

The Role of the Designated Register Office

Foreign nationals must give notice at a "Designated Register Office" if they do not have the required immigration status. While most major cities have these, rural businesses in areas

like the South West of England or the Scottish Highlands may find their clients need to travel significant distances to reach the nearest designated office.

Immigration Status Verification

Always check for the "share code" if the couple is using the EU Settlement Scheme. This streamlines the process and usually avoids the 70-day extension, allowing for a standard 28-day notice period.

Regional Variations: Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland

Whilst the essence of the "licence" is similar, the administrative bodies differ. In Scotland, you deal with the National Records of Scotland (NRS). Scottish law allows for "belief-based" ceremonies, which include humanists, a popular choice that now accounts for over 50% of non-religious ceremonies in the region.

Marriage Schedules in Scotland and Northern Ireland

Unlike the digital system in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland still rely heavily on the "Marriage Schedule." This document must be collected in person by one of the parties shortly before the wedding and returned within three days of the ceremony to register the marriage. Failure to return this document means the marriage is not legally registered, despite the ceremony taking place.

Bilingual Requirements and Support in Wales

Under the Welsh Language Act, couples in Wales have the right to a bilingual ceremony. Registrars in Wales are often proficient in both languages, and Business Wales offers resources for companies to ensure their service delivery meets these cultural and legal expectations. This is particularly relevant for the 94% of Welsh businesses that are micro-enterprises serving local communities.

12% Increase in cross-border marriage tourism in Northern Ireland since 2024, as couples navigate the unique legislative environment of the Windsor Framework (Invest Northern Ireland, 2025).

Costs, Fees, and Financial Compliance

The cost of giving notice is relatively modest, typically £42 per person as of early 2026, though this can rise to £57 if a Home Office referral is required. However, the secondary costs—such as the registrar's attendance at an approved venue—can vary wildly between local authorities.

Managing Registrar Attendance Fees

Local authorities set their own fees for attending ceremonies at external venues. In London, these fees can exceed £600 on Saturdays, whereas in the North of England, costs might be closer to £350. Hospitality businesses must be transparent with clients about these "hidden" costs, which are paid directly to the council and not the venue.

VAT and Tax Implications for Wedding Businesses

Wedding venues and planners must be mindful of VAT registration thresholds. If your turnover exceeds £90,000, you must register for VAT with HMRC. Marriage licence fees themselves are generally "non-business" supplies for councils and do not carry VAT, but your service fees for coordination certainly do.

Financial Records and Audits

Maintain clear records of all deposits and payments. The FCA-regulated payment systems used by modern businesses should be integrated with your booking software to ensure easy reconciliation during tax season.

The Role of Religious Institutions

If you are marrying in the Church of England or the Church in Wales, you usually do not need to give notice at a register office. Instead, "Banns" are read out in church on three Sundays before the wedding. This traditional method serves as the legal notice.

Exceptions for Other Faiths

For most other religions, including Judaism and the Quaker faith, couples must still give civil notice at a register office. In 2026, there is an ongoing consultation regarding the modernisation of marriage laws to allow more religious groups to conduct the legal aspects of marriage without a separate civil registrar, but the current dual-requirement remains for most.

Licencing for Religious Buildings

Religious buildings must be specifically registered for the solemnisation of marriages. If a business is assisting a client with a marquee wedding on religious grounds, they must ensure the "Permanent Structure" rule is adhered to, or that the specific plot is covered by the building's registration.

2026 Legal Insight: The Law Commission's 2025 report suggests a move towards "officiant-based" licencing rather than "building-based" licencing. Businesses should prepare for a transition where the person, not the place, holds the primary legal authority.

Digital Transformation and the 2026 Marriage Register

The UK moved away from paper marriage registers in 2021, transitioning to an electronic register.

This change allowed for the inclusion of both parents' names (not just fathers) on the marriage certificate, a long-overdue modernising step.

The "Marriage Document" vs. The Certificate

On the wedding day, you no longer sign a "Register." Instead, you sign a "Marriage Document" or "Marriage Schedule." This is then keyed into the electronic system by the registrar. The actual Marriage Certificate is not issued on the day; it must be ordered online via GOV.UK or the local authority website after the event.

Data Privacy and ICO Compliance

Businesses handling client data for marriage applications must comply with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) regulations. Marriage notices contain sensitive personal data, including home addresses and previous marital statuses. Ensure your CRM is encrypted and that you have a clear data retention policy as required by UK GDPR.

Post-Application: What Happens Next?

Once notice is given, it is displayed publicly (either on a physical board or a digital portal) for 28 days. This allows for any legal objections to be raised. If no objections are made, the "authority" to marry is issued. This authority is only valid for 12 months from the date notice was given.

Handling Objections and Legal Impediments

Objections are rare but usually relate to an existing marriage or a lack of mental capacity. Professional service providers should have contingency clauses in their contracts to protect their revenue in the event a marriage is legally blocked by a registrar or the Home Office.

The Ceremony: Legal Requirements on the Day

On the day of the ceremony, the registrar will conduct a brief private interview with both parties to ensure the details on the Marriage Document are still correct. Two witnesses must be present to sign the document alongside the couple and the registrar.

Voice Search: Quick Answers for UK Marriage Licences

"How long before my wedding do I need to give notice?"

You must give notice at least 29 days before your ceremony. However, in 2026, we recommend booking your registrar appointment at least 3 to 4 months in advance to ensure availability, especially for popular summer dates.

"Can I give notice in a different town from where I live?"

No. You must give notice in the registration district where you have lived for the last seven clear days. If you and your partner live in different districts, you must each visit your own local register office.

"What documents do I need to get married in the UK?"

You typically need a valid passport, proof of address (utility bill or bank statement), and proof that any previous marriage has ended (Decree Absolute or death certificate). Foreign nationals may need additional immigration documents.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

The most common reason for a delayed marriage licence application is incorrect documentation. For example, if a couple provides a "Decree Nisi" instead of a "Decree Absolute," the registrar cannot legally accept the notice. Similarly, using a driving licence as proof of address is often rejected if it hasn't been updated to the current residence.

Timings and Expiry of Notices

Because notices expire after 12 months, couples who postpone their wedding due to personal reasons or business delays must re-give notice and pay the fees again. Businesses should clearly communicate this to clients who are looking to move their dates.

The Importance of Accurate Venue Names

The "Authority to Marry" is venue-specific. If a couple changes their venue after giving notice, they must give notice again for the new location. This is a critical point for venues to emphasize during the booking process; once the notice is given, the location is legally locked in.

76% Of UK couples now research the legal requirements of marriage online before contacting a registrar, highlighting the importance of accurate digital information (Ofcom, 2025).

Summary: Ensuring a Compliant Path to Marriage

Applying for a marriage licence in the UK is a structured process designed to uphold the legal integrity of the institution. By understanding the regional nuances—from the strict 18+ rule in England to the unique return-of-schedule requirements in Scotland and Northern Ireland—businesses and couples can ensure a seamless experience. In 2026, the intersection of digital efficiency and traditional legal safeguards defines the landscape. Always refer to GOV.UK for the latest fee updates and specific local authority requirements to maintain total compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to get married at a register office in 2026?

In 2026, the standard fee to give notice is £42 per person. If you choose to have a simple ceremony at the register office with only two witnesses (often called a 'statutory ceremony'), the cost is typically around £57-£60. However, fees for ceremonies in 'approved rooms' or at weekend times are significantly higher and determined by the local council.

Do I need a separate licence for a marquee wedding in my garden?

In England and Wales, marriages must take place in an 'approved' permanent structure. You generally cannot get legally married in a private garden marquee unless that specific location is part of a licensed venue's grounds. However, you can have a legal ceremony in a register office followed by a celebratory marquee ceremony at home.

What is the notice period for a foreign national getting married in the UK?

For non-UK/Irish nationals without settled status, the Home Office may extend the standard 28-day notice period to 70 days. This allows for an investigation into the genuineness of the relationship. It is crucial to give notice as early as possible—up to 12 months in advance—to accommodate this potential delay.

Can I change the date of my wedding after giving notice?

Yes, you can change the date as long as the new date falls within 12 months of the day you gave notice. However, you must inform the registrar and the venue. If the date moves beyond the 12-month window, you will need to give notice again and pay the associated fees.

Is a humanist wedding legally binding in the UK?

In Scotland and Northern Ireland, humanist weddings are legally binding. In England and Wales, they currently are not. Couples in England and Wales typically have a brief civil ceremony at a register office to satisfy the legal requirements before or after their humanist celebration.

How do I get a copy of my marriage certificate in 2026?

Marriage certificates are no longer issued on the day of the wedding. After the ceremony, the registrar uploads the details to the electronic register. You can then order your certificate through the General Register Office (GRO) or your local council's website. They usually cost around £12.50 per copy.

What happens if my partner and I live in different countries?

If your partner lives abroad, they may need a Marriage Visitor Visa to enter the UK to give notice and marry. They must be in the UK for at least seven clear days before they can give notice, and then stay for the duration of the 28 (or 70) day notice period, unless they have specific permission to leave and return.

Can I choose any two people to be my witnesses?

Yes, as long as they are capable of understanding the ceremony and the nature of what they are signing. While there is no strict legal age for witnesses, most registrars prefer them to be over 16. They do not need to be UK citizens or residents.

Do I need to give notice again if I change my venue?

Yes. The legal notice is tied to a specific venue. If you move your wedding from a register office to a hotel, or from one hotel to another, you must give

fresh notice at the register office and pay the fees again. This is because the public notice must correctly state where the marriage will take place.

What is 'Giving Notice' exactly?

'Giving notice' is a legal declaration you sign at a register office stating your intention to marry. It includes your names, ages, occupations, and venue. It is a legal requirement designed to ensure there are no impediments to the marriage and to allow the public to raise objections if necessary.