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Council Services

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Getting Married

FAQs

Where can I get married?
At any building registered for either religious or civil marriages.
How much does it cost to get married?
It costs £30 each to arrange a marriage. The cost of the Ceremony itself depends on where and when you wish to marry. The cheapest is £43.50.
My fiancé(e) isn't British what documents will he/she need?
If he/she is a citizen of the European Union then they need the same documents as a British national (passport, final divorce certificate, death certificate of late spouse, and proof of address). If he/she is a citizen of a country outside the European Union then the will need a marriage visa, Indefinite Leave to Remain, or a Certificate of Approval from the Home Office.
Do we have to come in - can't we organise everything by post/over the phone/by e-mail?
You both need to give a person notice that you wish to marry - this cannot be done by phone or over the Internet?
I was married abroad and I want to get registered here - what do I do?
No foreign marriages can be registered in the UK. Normally any marriage abroad is recognised in the UK, but you may need to get any certificates translated.
I'm getting married in Church - what do I have to do?
If you are marrying in the Church of England then the Vicar or Rector will arrange everything for you. You do not have to come to the Register Office at all. If you are to marry in any other Christian Church or a building of another faith you must come in to give notice.
How quickly can I be married?
You both have to reside in England or Wales for 7 days, and then a further 15 clear days must be waited before you can be married. Notices are valid for 12 months.
Can I have music/readings/exchange rings?
Yes - talk to us before the Ceremony and we can help you design your own personal occasion.
How many guests are we allowed?
We have a room here that can accommodate 50.
Do we have to come together to arrange the marriage?
If either of you are not European Union Nationals you must come in together. If you are both European Union Nationals (including the UK) you can must each give notice in the district where each of you live (so if you live in different districts you don't both have to attend together).
Do I need an appointment to arrange a marriage?
Not normally. If you wish to give notice on a Saturday you must make an appointment in advance.
Can I get married on a Sunday?
Yes.
Do I have to get married in Newham?
You can be married at any building registered for marriages.
How do I get a marriage certificate?
You will be issued with a certificate on the day of the marriage. After that you can obtain them from the Register Office for the district where the marriage took place.

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