Guide to Getting a Marriage License in BC

Getting married is one of life's major milestones, and if you are planning to tie the knot in British Columbia, understanding the marriage license process is the essential first step. Whether you are a longtime BC resident or a newcomer to Canada, the process is straightforward. This guide covers everything from eligibility requirements to the ceremony itself, with special attention to considerations that newcomers should keep in mind.

Eligibility to Marry in BC

To obtain a marriage license in British Columbia, you must meet the following basic requirements:

• Both parties must be at least 19 years old. If one or both parties are 16 to 18, parental or guardian consent is required. Marriage under 16 is not permitted in BC.
• Both parties must be legally free to marry. This means neither party is currently married to someone else. If either party was previously married, proof of dissolution (divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse) must be provided.
• The parties must not be closely related by blood or adoption, as defined by the Marriage Act.
• Both parties must have the mental capacity to understand and consent to the marriage.
• There is no residency requirement. You do not need to be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or even a resident of BC to get married in the province. Visitors can obtain a marriage license and have a legally valid ceremony in BC.

BC recognizes marriages between any two persons, regardless of gender. Same-sex marriage has been legal in BC since 2003 and across Canada since 2005.

Where to Get a Marriage License

Marriage licenses in BC are issued by authorized marriage license issuers. These are not government offices; instead, they are private businesses that have been authorized by the provincial government to issue licenses. Common issuers include:

• Jewellery stores
• Some pharmacies (e.g., London Drugs locations)
• Some travel agencies
• Some notary public offices
• Service BC locations

You can find a marriage license issuer near you by searching the BC government marriage license issuer directory. It is a good idea to call ahead and confirm their hours and any specific requirements, as availability can vary.

Required Documents

When you go to obtain your marriage license, both parties must appear in person. You will each need to bring:

• Valid government-issued photo ID: This can be a passport, BC driver's license, BC Services Card (photo version), or another government-issued photo ID. For newcomers, a passport is usually the most reliable form of ID.
• Proof of dissolution of previous marriage (if applicable): If you were previously married, bring your divorce decree (Certificate of Divorce or equivalent) or the death certificate of your former spouse. If these documents are in a language other than English, you must provide a certified translation.
• Parental consent (if applicable): If either party is between 16 and 18 years old.

You do not need to bring witnesses to obtain the license; witnesses are needed at the ceremony itself.

Fees

The fee for a BC marriage license is approximately $100. This fee is paid to the marriage license issuer at the time of application. Payment methods vary by issuer (cash, credit card, or debit). The license fee does not include the cost of the ceremony itself, which is a separate expense.

Validity of the Marriage License

Once issued, a BC marriage license is valid for 3 months. Your wedding ceremony must take place within this period, anywhere in British Columbia. If the license expires before you have your ceremony, you will need to purchase a new one.

The license is valid anywhere in BC, so you can obtain it in Vancouver and have your ceremony in Whistler, Victoria, Kelowna, or any other location in the province.

Choosing an Officiant

Your marriage ceremony must be performed by a person authorized to solemnize marriages in BC. This includes:

• Marriage commissioners: Appointed by the provincial government. They perform civil (non-religious) ceremonies. You can find a marriage commissioner through the BC government website.
• Religious representatives: Clergy or spiritual leaders who are registered with the province to perform marriages. They can perform both religious and civil ceremonies.
• Temporary permit holders: A friend or family member can apply for a one-time authorization to perform your ceremony. This requires a separate application to the BC government.

The officiant's fee varies. Marriage commissioners typically charge between $75 and $250, depending on the location and timing of the ceremony. Religious officials may have their own fee structures or may include the ceremony as part of their congregation's services.

The Ceremony

BC law has minimal requirements for the ceremony itself. The essential legal elements are:

• The ceremony must be performed by an authorized officiant.
• Both parties must be present and consent to the marriage.
• At least two witnesses must be present. Witnesses must be at least 19 years old.
• The marriage license must be presented to the officiant before the ceremony.

Beyond these requirements, the ceremony can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. You can write your own vows, incorporate cultural traditions, or follow a traditional religious format. BC does not require any specific words or rituals, as long as the legal requirements are met.

After the Ceremony: Registration

After the ceremony, the officiant is responsible for completing the Registration of Marriage form and submitting it to BC Vital Statistics within 48 hours. This officially registers your marriage with the province.

Once the marriage is registered, you can order a Marriage Certificate from BC Vital Statistics. The certificate is a separate document from the marriage license and registration. It serves as official proof of your marriage and is needed for various purposes, including spousal immigration applications, name changes, and insurance claims.

To order a marriage certificate, visit the BC Vital Statistics certificate ordering page. The fee is approximately $27 for a standard certificate.

Special Considerations for Newcomers

If you are a newcomer to Canada planning to marry in BC, here are some additional points to consider:

Immigration Implications

Marriage to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident does not automatically grant you immigration status. However, it does open a pathway for spousal sponsorship. If your spouse is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they can sponsor you for permanent residency through IRCC's family reunification program. For those already in the BC PNP process, marriage may affect your application, so consult our BC PNP guide for details.

Foreign Documents

If your ID or divorce documents are in a language other than English, you must provide certified translations. Some marriage license issuers may have additional requirements, so call ahead to confirm.

Cultural and Religious Ceremonies

BC is a multicultural province, and many couples incorporate cultural or religious traditions into their ceremonies. These traditions are welcome and encouraged, but remember that only the legal elements listed above make the marriage legally valid in BC. If you have a cultural ceremony that does not include a BC-authorized officiant, you will also need to have a separate legal ceremony to ensure the marriage is recognized by the province.

Prenuptial Agreements

If you and your partner want to enter into a prenuptial (or cohabitation) agreement, this is a separate legal process from the marriage license. Consider consulting a family lawyer in BC. While not required, a prenuptial agreement can provide clarity about financial arrangements in the event of separation.

For a more comprehensive overview of the marriage process for newcomers, including cultural considerations and post-marriage steps, see our detailed guide on getting married in Canada as a newcomer.

Common Questions

Can we get married the same day we get the license?

Yes, there is no waiting period in BC. You can obtain your marriage license and have your ceremony on the same day.

Do we need blood tests or medical exams?

No. BC does not require any medical tests for a marriage license.

Can we get married outdoors?

Yes, you can have your ceremony anywhere in BC, indoors or outdoors. Many couples choose parks, beaches, vineyards, or other scenic locations. Some locations may require a permit for events, so check with the local authority if you plan a large gathering.

What if we lose the marriage license before the ceremony?

You will need to purchase a new marriage license. The original cannot be replaced.

After Marriage: Next Steps

Once you are married, you may want to take several practical steps:

• Order your marriage certificate from BC Vital Statistics.
• Update your name if you choose to take your spouse's name (see the formal name change process through BC Vital Statistics).
• Update your emergency contacts with your employer, bank, and healthcare provider.
• If applicable, begin the spousal sponsorship process through IRCC.
• Update your MSP and BC Services Card information. See our BC Services Card and MSP guide for details.
• Review your insurance policies (health, home, auto) to add your spouse.

If you are a newcomer also working on other settlement needs, explore our resources on rental housing in BC and starting a business in Canada for comprehensive guidance on building your new life in British Columbia.

Getting married in BC is a joyful occasion, and the legal process is designed to be accessible and efficient. With proper preparation and the right documents, you can obtain your marriage license and be on your way to celebrating one of life's most important moments.