Simply Married

What are the requirements for giving notice of marriage?

To give notice you must both be at least 18, have lived in your notice district for at least the last seven full days, and attend in person with proof of identity, proof of address and, if relevant, evidence that any previous marriage or civil partnership has ended. Anyone subject to immigration control faces additional requirements.

Basic eligibility

You must be free to marry each other, both aged 18 or over, and not within the prohibited degrees of relationship. These are checked at the notice appointment, not assumed beforehand.

Residency

You give notice in the district where you live, and you must have lived there for at least the seven full days immediately before the appointment. Moving house shortly before your appointment can affect which office you attend.

Documents

Bring original photo identity, original proof of address, and — where applicable — the original document showing a previous marriage or civil partnership has legally ended. Copies are not accepted.

  • Valid passport (or accepted alternative identity evidence)
  • Proof of address dated within the timeframe your council requires
  • Final order, dissolution order or death certificate if previously married

Immigration status

If either of you is subject to immigration control, you may need to give notice at a designated register office and the notice period can be extended to 70 days for referral checks.

What this means for you

  • Missing or copied documents mean the appointment cannot be completed, so check your council's exact list beforehand.
  • If immigration referral applies, plan for a longer notice period than the standard 28 days.

Official sources

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

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What documents do you need for your marriage notice appointment?The exact documents to bring to a notice of marriage appointment: identity, address and any evidence a previous marriage has ended.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.What is the residency requirement for giving notice of marriage?You must have lived in your notice district for at least the last seven full days before your appointment. Here's how that rule works.

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.