Simply Married

Are you eligible to get married? A quick check

You are eligible to marry in England and Wales if you are both at least 18, not already married or in a civil partnership to someone else, not closely related to each other, and able to freely understand and consent to the marriage. Meeting these does not remove the need to give notice and complete the waiting period before the ceremony.

The core checklist

Before booking anything, run through the basics that apply to every marriage in England and Wales, regardless of ceremony type or venue.

  • Both at least 18 years old
  • Neither of you currently married or in a civil partnership
  • Not within the prohibited degrees of relationship
  • Both able to consent freely and understand the marriage
  • Able to give notice in person at your own local register office

Circumstances that add extra steps

Being divorced or widowed, being subject to immigration control, or having a name that does not match your identity documents do not stop you marrying, but they each add evidence or process you need to plan for at your notice appointment.

Eligibility is not the same as being ready to book

Confirming you are eligible is the first step, not the last. You still need to gather documents, book notice appointments, and allow the statutory waiting period before your ceremony date.

What this means for you

  • If any of the core checklist points are unclear for your situation, check with a register office before paying any deposits.
  • Extra circumstances rarely block a marriage, but they do lengthen the paperwork you need to gather.

Official sources

Last reviewed: 17 August 2026 · Next review due 17 November 2026

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Related guides

Who can get married in England and Wales?The eligibility rules for marrying in England and Wales: age, existing relationships, family ties, capacity and residency.Legal requirements for marriage in England and WalesWho can legally marry in England and Wales: age, relationship, existing marriages or civil partnerships, capacity, residency and notice.What documents do I need to get married?The documents to bring to your notice appointment: photo identity, proof of address, and evidence that any previous marriage has ended.

Simply Married is an independent planning service, not a register office or government department. Confirm current requirements and fees with your own register office and on GOV.UK.