Planning a wedding in beautiful British Columbia? Before you say “I do” surrounded by ocean views, mountain backdrops, or lush west coast forests, there’s one key legal step to complete: applying for a marriage licence.

Fortunately, the process in B.C. is simple—as long as you follow the rules and bring the right documents. Here’s everything you need to know to apply confidently and avoid delays.

Where to Get a Marriage Licence in B.C.

Marriage licences in British Columbia must be obtained in person from a licensed issuer. These include:

• Notaries
• Municipal clerks
• Select Service BC locations

Only one partner needs to apply in person, as long as they bring all required documentation for both people.

You can find a local issuer using the B.C. Marriage Licence Issuer Search.

Getting married in Vancouver? Explore 60+ of the city’s top wedding venues—including capacity info to help you choose the perfect spot.

Who Can Apply for a Marriage Licence?

To qualify for a marriage licence in B.C., both parties must:

• Be at least 19 years old, or 16–18 with parental/guardian consent
• Be currently unmarried
• Be mentally capable of understanding the decision to marry
• Not be closely related by blood or adoption

B.C. recognizes same-sex marriages and does not require provincial residency.

If you're planning a destination wedding elsewhere in Canada, make sure to read: Can You Get Married in a Different Province than Your Licence?

What You’ll Need to Bring

The applicant (you or your partner) must bring:

• Valid government-issued photo ID
• The full legal names, birthplaces, and ages of both parties
• The full names and birthplaces of both sets of parents, including mother’s maiden names
• If previously married, an original or certified divorce certificate (not a separation agreement or judgment)

Avoid these and other paperwork mistakes by checking out: Common Mistakes Couples Make When Applying for a Marriage Licence in Canada

How Much Does It Cost?

The marriage licence fee in British Columbia is $100 CAD, payable when you apply. This fee is non-refundable and does not include your official marriage certificate (which must be ordered after the wedding).

How Long Is It Valid?

Marriage licences in B.C. are valid for 90 days from the date they’re issued. There’s no waiting period, so you can marry the same day you receive it—just make sure your ceremony takes place within the province and before the licence expires.

Additional Marriage Requirements in B.C.

To ensure your marriage is legally recognized in British Columbia:

• Your ceremony must be performed by a registered Marriage Commissioner or licensed religious officiant
• The wedding must take place within B.C.
• You must have two adult witnesses present

After the ceremony, your officiant will submit the paperwork to Vital Statistics, and you can then apply for your official marriage certificate

Quick Checklist

• Apply in person (only one partner required)
• Bring photo ID and full details for both people
• Include divorce documentation if applicable
• Pay $100 CAD fee
• Valid for 90 days (no waiting period)
• Ceremony must occur in British Columbia

Once You Have Your Licence, What’s Next?

With the legal paperwork sorted, it’s time to plan the rest of your celebration.

• Curious about photography costs? Check out: How Much Are Most Wedding Photographers in Vancouver, British Columbia?
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