Getting Started

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Prior to being married, you must obtain an ALBERTA MARRIAGE LICENSE from a Registry Office in the province of Alberta.  It is valid for 3 months from the date of issue.

To obtain the license, both partners must go to Alberta Registries together and submit the following documents/information:

• Proof of identification (Government ID such as driver’s license, passport, birth certificate, etc.)
• Full name of father and his place of birth
• Full name of mother with maiden name and her place of birth
• If divorced; Decree Absolute is required

The Marriage License must be given to the marriage commissioner and from then on the commissioner is responsible for getting it registered. 

Civil ceremonies are non-religious ceremonies performed by marriage commissioners authorized by Alberta Government appointment.  All Marriage Ceremony Requirements apply and a valid Alberta Marriage Licence is required.  A civil ceremony requires each person getting married to declare in front of the intended spouse, both witnesses (18 years of age or older)  and the Marriage Commissioner the following two statements.

1.  I do solemnly declare that I do not know of any lawful impediment why I, (name) may not be joined in matrimony to (name).

2.  I call upon those persons present to witness that I, (name), do take you, (name) to be my lawful wedded (wife/husband/spouse).

·  The marriage licence must be valid on the date of marriage.

·  The Registration of Marriage/Marriage Licence document must be given to the marriage officiant prior to the ceremony.

·  The ceremony must take place in Alberta.

·  The marriage officiant must be authorized/registered with the Alberta Government to perform marriages in Alberta.

·  The couple and two adult witnesses (18 years of age or older) must be physically in the presence of the marriage officiant.

·  Marriage by proxy is NOT permitted.

A Marriage Statement (certificate) is provided at completion of the wedding ceremony but is not an official document.  To obtain an official Certificate of Marriage, it is necessary to apply to the Alberta Vital Statistics Registry.  The appropriate form can be obtained online at https://www.alberta.ca/order-marriage-certificate.aspx

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The ceremony may be over, but I am still available to help you.  If you have any questions, I am delighted to support.