Marriage requirements checklist
Before you give notice, check you both meet the basic eligibility rules, gather original identity and address documents, and confirm any previous marriage has ended with the right paperwork. Working through these in order avoids the most common reasons notice appointments are delayed.
Eligibility
Confirm you are both at least 18, not already married or in a civil partnership to someone else, not within the prohibited degrees of relationship, and able to consent freely.
Documents to gather
Bring together a valid passport or alternative identity evidence, dated proof of address covering the last seven days at least, and, if relevant, the original document proving a previous marriage or civil partnership has ended.
- Valid passport for each of you, or agreed alternative identity evidence
- Dated proof of current address for each of you
- Original final order, dissolution order or death certificate if previously married
- Deed poll or other linking evidence if your documents show different names
- Certified translations of any foreign-language documents
Timing
Confirm which notice period applies to you — 28 days standard, up to 70 days if a notice is referred for immigration reasons — and book your notice appointment with margin either side of that.
What this means for you
- Work through eligibility and documents before booking a ceremony date, not after.
- Build in extra time for anything that needs replacing, translating or reordering.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Give notice at your local register office
- GOV.UK — Who can get married
- GOV.UK — Fees for marriages and civil partnerships
Last reviewed: 17 August 2026 · Next review due 17 November 2026
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Related guides
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.