At a Glance
- If either party is under the age of 19, you will need to provide proof of age, such as a birth certificate or a sworn affidavit.
- You will need to obtain a marriage license from a marriage commissioner or a registrar of vital statistics.
- You can apply for a marriage license online or in person at a marriage commissioner’s office or a registry office.
Congratulations on your decision to embark on a lifelong journey of love and commitment! Registering your marriage in British Columbia is a crucial step in making your union official and recognized by the law. This blog post serves as a comprehensive guide to provide you with all the essential information and instructions on how to register marriage in BC.
Understanding the Requirements for Marriage Registration in BC
Before delving into the registration process, it’s important to understand the requirements that you and your partner must meet in order to register your marriage in British Columbia:
1. Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 19 years of age. If either party is under the age of 19, parental consent or a court order is required.
2. Residency Requirement: At least one of the parties must be a resident of British Columbia. If neither party is a resident, you may need to register your marriage in another jurisdiction.
3. Absence of Prohibited Relationships: You cannot marry a close relative, such as a parent, sibling, or grandparent.
4. Mental Capacity: Both parties must have the mental capacity to understand the nature and consequences of marriage.
Essential Documents for Marriage Registration in BC
To ensure a smooth and successful registration process, you will need to gather the following documents:
1. Valid Identification: Both parties must provide valid government-issued identification, such as a passport, driver’s license, or birth certificate.
2. Proof of Age: If either party is under the age of 19, you will need to provide proof of age, such as a birth certificate or a sworn affidavit.
3. Proof of Residency: If you are not a resident of British Columbia, you will need to provide proof of residency in another jurisdiction.
4. Marriage License: You will need to obtain a marriage license from a marriage commissioner or a registrar of vital statistics.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your Marriage in BC
1. Obtain a Marriage License: You can apply for a marriage license online or in person at a marriage commissioner‘s office or a registry office. The application fee is $100.
2. Complete the Marriage License Application: Both parties must complete the marriage license application form and provide the required information, such as your names, addresses, occupations, and the date and place of your intended marriage.
3. Attend a Pre-Marriage Education Course: Some marriage commissioners may require you to attend a pre-marriage education course before issuing a marriage license.
4. Arrange for a Marriage Ceremony: You can choose to have a civil or religious marriage ceremony. If you choose a civil ceremony, you can have it performed by a marriage commissioner or a judge. If you choose a religious ceremony, you can have it performed by a member of the clergy.
5. Sign the Marriage Register: During the marriage ceremony, both parties and the marriage commissioner or officiant will sign the marriage register.
6. Return the Marriage License: After the ceremony, you must return the marriage license to the marriage commissioner or the registry office within 30 days.
Additional Information and Considerations
- Change of Name: If you wish to change your name after marriage, you can do so by applying for a change of name certificate from the Vital Statistics Agency.
- Marriage Certificates: You can obtain copies of your marriage certificate from the Vital Statistics Agency.
- Legal Rights and Responsibilities: Marriage brings with it certain legal rights and responsibilities, such as the right to inherit property, the right to make medical decisions for your spouse, and the obligation to support your spouse financially.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I get married in British Columbia if I am not a Canadian citizen?
A: Yes, you can get married in British Columbia even if you are not a Canadian citizen. However, you must meet the residency requirement and provide proof of your identity and age.
Q: How long does it take to get a marriage license in British Columbia?
A: It takes about 24 hours to get a marriage license in British Columbia. However, it is advisable to apply for the license well in advance of your intended marriage date.
Q: Can I have a same-sex marriage in British Columbia?
A: Yes, same-sex marriage is legal in British Columbia. You can have a civil or religious same-sex marriage ceremony.
Q: What happens if I lose my marriage certificate?
A: If you lose your marriage certificate, you can apply for a replacement certificate from the Vital Statistics Agency.
In a nutshell: Embracing a Lifetime of Love and Commitment
Registering your marriage in British Columbia is a significant milestone in your journey as a couple. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your marriage is legally recognized and that you and your partner can enjoy the rights and responsibilities that come with being married. Congratulations on embarking on this exciting chapter of your lives together!