Passport requirements for giving notice of marriage
A valid, in-date passport is the standard and most straightforward form of identity evidence for a marriage notice appointment. It confirms your identity, date of birth and nationality in one document, which is why most register offices ask for it first.
Why passports are preferred
A passport covers identity, age and nationality together, which also matters for the immigration checks registrars must carry out. This is why it is usually listed as the first option, ahead of alternative evidence.
Expired passports
An expired passport is not automatically accepted. Some register offices will take one alongside other documents, others will not — ask your specific office rather than assuming either way.
No passport
Without a passport, you will usually need a combination of alternative documents such as a birth certificate, other photo identification and evidence of your immigration status. Renewing a passport ahead of your appointment is often simpler than assembling alternatives.
What this means for you
- Check your passport's expiry date as soon as you set a ceremony date, not the week before your notice appointment.
- If you do not hold a British or Irish passport, expect extra checks on immigration status at the same appointment.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Give notice at your local register office
- GOV.UK — Marriage and civil partnership referral and investigation scheme
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.