Marriage or civil partnership: what is the difference?
Marriage and civil partnership are both legally recognised relationships open to opposite-sex and same-sex couples in England and Wales, giving broadly similar legal rights around property, pensions, tax and next-of-kin status. The main differences are the ceremony itself — a civil partnership is formed by signing a document rather than making spoken declarations — and some legal terminology, such as 'dissolution' rather than 'divorce'.
How they are formed
A marriage is formed through a ceremony with spoken legal declarations. A civil partnership is formed by both partners and witnesses signing a civil partnership document, with no requirement for spoken words, though couples can still hold a ceremony around the signing if they wish.
Similar rights, some differences
Both statuses carry similar rights around inheritance, pensions, tax and being treated as next of kin. Ending each relationship uses different legal terminology and, in places, a slightly different process, so it is worth checking current guidance if this affects your decision.
Notice and eligibility are the same
Both routes require notice at your local register office, the same waiting period, and the same basic eligibility rules around age, existing relationships and close family relationships.
What this means for you
- Choosing one over the other is a personal decision, not a legal shortcut — the preliminaries are the same either way.
- If terminology such as 'divorce' versus 'dissolution' matters to you, factor that in before deciding.
Official sources
Last reviewed: 17 August 2026 · Next review due 17 November 2026
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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.