Getting married in Nova Scotia? Whether you're planning a coastal elopement or a celebration in downtown Halifax, you’ll need to take one important legal step before saying “I do”: securing a marriage licence.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting it done—plus how to avoid common marriage licence mistakes that could delay your big day.

Where to Get a Marriage Licence in Nova Scotia

Marriage licences are issued by Deputy Issuers of Marriage Licences—government-authorized individuals located across the province. You’ll often find them working in private businesses, community offices, or municipal buildings.

Important: Both partners must go together, in person to apply.

To locate a Deputy Issuer near you, visit the official Nova Scotia Marriage Licence Info.

Also remember: you must apply in the province where your legal wedding ceremony takes place, even if you live elsewhere. Learn more here: Can You Get Married in a Different Province than Your Licence?

Who Can Get Married in Nova Scotia?

To be eligible for a Nova Scotia marriage licence, both individuals must:

• Be at least 19 years old
  (Or 16–18 with written parental consent)
• Be mentally competent to marry
• Be currently unmarried
• Not be closely related by blood or adoption

Same-sex marriages are fully legal. There is no residency requirement, which makes Nova Scotia a great destination for out-of-province or international couples.

What to Bring When You Apply

Each applicant must bring:

• Government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport or driver’s licence)
• Full names and birthplaces of both parents (including mother’s maiden name)
• Divorce certificate or decree absolute (if previously divorced)
• Death certificate (if widowed)

Tip: Always bring originals or court-certified copies. Incomplete or incorrect ID is one of the top marriage licence mistakes couples make.

Check with your chosen Deputy Issuer to confirm if any additional documents are needed.

Cost of a Marriage Licence in Nova Scotia

The current fee is $132.70 CAD, payable to the Deputy Issuer at the time of application. The fee is non-refundable.

How Long Is It Valid?

Marriage licences in Nova Scotia are valid for 90 days from the date of issue.

There is no waiting period, so you can get married on the same day you receive your licence if your officiant and witnesses are ready. To stay on track, use our Canadian Wedding Planning Timeline to schedule this step at the right time.

After the Wedding

Your officiant will register your signed marriage documents with Vital Statistics. Once that’s processed, you can apply for your official marriage certificate.

Apply here:
Order a Marriage Certificate – Nova Scotia

This certificate serves as your legal proof of marriage.

Quick Checklist

• Both partners apply in person
• Bring government-issued photo ID
• Provide divorce or death certificate (if applicable)
• Pay $132.70 CAD
• Licence valid for 90 days
• Ceremony must occur in Nova Scotia