Everything You Need to Know About the Notice of Marriage in the UK

(Including answers to all your most-asked questions!)

Planning your wedding is such an exciting, joyful time full of love, lists, and a few legal steps too! One of the first things you’ll need to do is give your Notice of Marriage.

It might sound a bit formal (and even slightly intimidating at first), but don’t worry it’s actually a simple, straightforward process that just ensures your wedding is legally valid.

Let’s go through everything you need to know, from what to expect and what to bring, to those common “but what if…?” questions that pop up all the time!

What Is a Notice of Marriage?

A Notice of Marriage is a legal statement declaring that you and your partner intend to marry. It’s required by law in England and Wales and confirms that you’re both free and legally able to get married.

Both you and your partner must give notice in person at your local register office. The information you give is then displayed publicly for 28 days, and once that time has passed, your marriage can legally go ahead.

Your notice remains valid for 12 months, so you can plan ahead confidently knowing this step won’t expire before your big day.

When Should You Give Notice?

You must give notice at least 28 days before your wedding.

However, it’s wise to do it earlier many couples choose to book their appointment 2–3 months in advance, especially if:

• One of you is from outside the UK

• You’re getting married somewhere different to where you live

• You want to avoid any last-minute stress

Remember: your notice lasts for a full year, so you can get it done well ahead of time and tick it off your list early!

Where Do You Give Notice?

You need to give notice at the register office in the district where you live, not where you’re getting married.

If you and your partner live in different areas, you’ll each need to give notice separately in your own district.

Example: If you live in Colchester but your wedding is in Suffolk, you’ll still give notice at Colchester Register Office. The paperwork will then be sent to the registrar responsible for your wedding venue.

What Paperwork Do You Need to Bring?

Here’s what you’ll usually need for your appointment:

✅ Proof of identity – your passport is ideal.
✅ Proof of address – such as a utility bill, bank statement, tenancy agreement, or mortgage statement (dated within the last 3 months).
✅ Proof of nationality – usually covered by your passport.
✅ Proof of how your last marriage ended (if applicable) – a Decree Absolute or death certificate.
✅ Name change documents – if your name is different from your birth certificate, bring your deed poll or previous marriage certificate.

If you’re unsure, contact your local register office they’ll happily confirm exactly what they’ll accept so you can arrive fully prepared.

Do I Need to Give Notice if I’m Getting Married in a Church?

That depends on the type of church:

• Church of England or Church in Wales:
  You usually don’t need to give notice at the register office. Instead, your banns (a public announcement of your intention to marry) will be read out in church on three Sundays before your wedding.

• Any other church or religious venue:
  You’ll still need to give notice at your local register office. This applies to Catholic, Methodist, Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and other religious ceremonies.

If you’re not sure, check with your priest, vicar, or officiant they’ll guide you on what’s required.

Do I Need to Give Notice if I’m Getting Married Abroad?

If your legal ceremony will take place outside the UK, you don’t usually give notice here.

However, the country where you’re marrying may ask for a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) from your local register office. This proves you’re legally free to marry.

Each country has its own rules, so it’s best to check with the embassy or consulate of the country where your wedding will be held.

Do I Need Extra Paperwork If I’ve Been Married Before?

Yes but it’s simple.

You’ll need to provide legal proof that your previous marriage has ended, such as:

• A Decree Absolute (for divorce), or

• A Death Certificate (if widowed).

If the document was issued outside the UK, it may need to be translated or legally recognised. Your local register office can confirm what’s acceptable.

What If I Don’t Have a Passport or Driving Licence?

Don’t panic you can still give notice!

If you don’t have a passport, bring your birth certificate.
If your name has changed since birth, you’ll also need proof of the change (like a deed poll or marriage certificate).

Your registrar will explain which combinations of documents are accepted. The key is to prove your name, age, and nationality.

What If My Name Has Changed Before?

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or by deed poll, bring documents linking your old and new names such as:

• Your marriage certificate

• A deed poll document

This helps the registrar match your identity across all your paperwork.

What If I’m Getting Married Somewhere Else in the UK?

You always give notice where you live, not where the wedding is taking place.

Your notice will then be sent to the district where your wedding will happen, and your marriage schedule will be prepared there.

So, whether you’re having a countryside wedding miles away or tying the knot in your hometown, it all starts with your local register office.

I’ve Already Booked My Registrar – Do I Still Need to Give Notice?

Yes — booking your registrar and giving notice are two completely separate steps.

You can’t legally get married without giving notice first, even if your venue and registrar are already confirmed. Think of giving notice as the legal green light that makes your booking official.

What to Expect at Your Notice Appointment (and the Questions You’ll Be Asked)

This is often the part couples worry about, but honestly it’s very relaxed!

The appointment usually lasts around 20–30 minutes per person, and you’ll be seen individually (so the registrar can confirm your details privately).

They’ll Ask Simple Questions Like:

• Your full name, date of birth, and occupation

• Your current address and how long you’ve lived there

• Your nationality

• Whether you’ve been married or in a civil partnership before

• Where and when you plan to get married

They might also ask a few light questions about your partner (like their full name or occupation), but this isn’t a test just a legal formality.

Once the registrar is happy that everything is in order, you’ll sign your notice, pay the fee (usually £35 per person, or £47 for non-UK nationals), and that’s it! 🎉

Your notice will then be displayed publicly for 28 days before your marriage schedule can be issued.

🌸 Final Thoughts

Giving notice of marriage might sound like one more job on your to-do list, but it’s truly a simple, straightforward, and essential part of the journey.

Once it’s done, you can tick it off your list and move on to the fun stuff — planning your décor, outfits, and special touches that make your day unique!

Remember: the team at your local register office are there to help and guide you, not to catch you out. Take a deep breath, bring your documents, and walk in with confidence you’ve got this. 💕

Check it out here: www.creative-brides.com/planning

Happy Wedding planning

Love

Kelly "The bridal coach"