Planning a wedding in Nunavut? Whether you’re hosting an intimate ceremony in Iqaluit or a traditional celebration in a remote community, every legal marriage in Nunavut starts with a valid marriage licence.
The application process is unique to the territory and requires an in-person visit with a designated Marriage Licence Issuer. Here's exactly how to do it—plus tips to avoid the most common marriage licence mistakes couples make across Canada.
Where to Get a Marriage Licence in Nunavut
Marriage licences in Nunavut are issued by Marriage Licence Issuers appointed by the Government of Nunavut. These officials are based in communities across the territory and process applications in person.
Important: Both people getting married must appear together in person. You cannot apply online or by proxy.
To find an Issuer near you, contact:
Department of Health – Government of Nunavut
If you’re coming from out of province, remember: a Nunavut marriage licence is only valid for weddings within Nunavut. For more info on this rule, see why your marriage licence must match your wedding location.
Who Can Apply?
You’re eligible to apply for a marriage licence in Nunavut if you:
- Are at least 19 years old
(If you're 16–18, you’ll need written parental consent) - Are not currently married
- Are mentally capable of giving consent
- Are not closely related by blood or adoption
Nunavut fully recognizes same-sex marriages, and you do not need to be a resident of the territory to get married here.
Planning from out of province or abroad? Visit our Canada-wide guide to marriage licences for everything you need to know.
What to Bring
When you apply, both applicants must provide:
- Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s licence, or territorial ID)
- Information about your parents’ full names and birthplaces
- Divorce certificate or decree absolute (if previously married)
- Death certificate (if widowed)
Some Issuers may ask for additional documentation, so confirm in advance to avoid delays. This is a great task to include in your Canadian wedding planning timeline.
Marriage Licence Cost in Nunavut
The fee for a marriage licence in Nunavut is $100 CAD.
This fee is paid at the time of application and is non-refundable, even if your plans change.
How Long Is It Valid?
Your Nunavut marriage licence is valid for 90 days (3 months) from the date it’s issued. There is no waiting period, which means your ceremony can take place as soon as you receive your licence—as long as all other legal requirements are met.
If you’re planning a destination-style wedding in Nunavut from another province, be sure your travel and legal timeline are aligned. Learn more about common licence timing mistakes.
After the Wedding
Once your ceremony is complete, your officiant will submit your signed licence to Nunavut Vital Statistics for official registration.
After your marriage is registered, you can request an official marriage certificate, which serves as your legal proof of marriage in Canada (and abroad, if needed).
For more information, contact:
Vital Statistics – Nunavut Department of Health
Quick Checklist
- Both applicants must appear in person
- Bring valid government-issued photo ID
- Include divorce or death certificate (if applicable)
- Pay $100 CAD licence fee
- Licence valid for 90 days
- Ceremony must take place in Nunavut
Continue Planning Your Wedding
Once your licence is sorted, you can focus on the fun parts of planning—like finding the right photographer. If you haven’t yet, read our step-by-step guide to choosing the perfect wedding photographer in Canada.
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