Getting Started
What is a Marriage Commissioner?
A Marriage Commissioner is a person with the legal authority to perform civil marriages. Tying the knot with a Marriage Commissioner is an alternative to traditional religious services.
Obtaining a Marriage Licence
Alberta Marriage Licences are available from any registry agent in Alberta. A Marriage Licence shows that you meet the requirements to get married in Alberta and gives you the legal right to get married any time within 3 months from the date the licence was issued.
With proper documentation, couples may obtain a Marriage Licence and marry on the same day! Please refer to the Government of Alberta Vital Statistics website for specific details.
Arranging a Meeting
Please contact Weddings by Pat to arrange a convenient time to meet and discuss ceremony wishes. Whether it be serious, romantic, elegant, fun-filled, or a bit of all of the above, this is your opportunity to work with Pat to tailor your perfect ceremony.
Remember…it is your day…it should be perfect in every way.
Marriage Licence Requirements
To obtain a Marriage Licence in Alberta, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old (if you are younger than 18, you will need legal consent from your parents)
- You must show acceptable identification such as a birth certificate, passport, treaty status card, Canadian
citizenship card or driver’s licence - Both parties must provide their parents’ full names and birth places
- You cannot be related to the person you wish to marry by whole blood, half blood or adoption (for example, you
may not marry your grandparent, parent, grandchild, child or sibling) - You must be currently unmarried
- If you are divorced, you must present proof that the divorce is final (Certificate of Divorce or Decree Absolute).
Divorce Judgement is not accepted as proof of divorce - You must have your wedding in Alberta, however you do not have to be an Alberta resident to get married in Alberta
- You must be free of the influence of drugs and alcohol when you apply for a Marriage Licence (and when you
participate in the marriage ceremony) - Both parties to the marriage must apply together for their marriage licence
A Few More Points To Remember
- It is unlawful to be married without a Marriage Licence
- It is unlawful to be married while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- It is unlawful to be married without two adult witnesses
- Remember, both parties to the marriage must apply together for their marriage licence
- Blood tests are not required
