How to Give Notice of Marriage or Civil Partnership

Last updated: October 2025 Reviewed by the RegistryOffice.uk editorial team

Overview

If you plan to marry or form a civil partnership in England or Wales, you must give formal notice of marriage or notice of civil partnership at your local register office. This legal declaration confirms your intention to marry or register your partnership and allows the authorities to check you are free to do so.You must give notice at least 29 days before the ceremony, and your notice is valid for 12 months from the date it is given.

Who Can Give Notice

Anyone aged 18 or over (or 16–17 with parental consent)
British citizens, EU nationals, and most other residents of England or Wales
Both partners must have lived in a registration district for at least 7 days before giving notice

If either partner is a foreign national without settled status, you may need to attend a designated register office — check with your local council before booking.

Documents You’ll Need

Proof of identity (passport or full birth certificate)
Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, or tenancy agreement)
Proof of immigration status (if applicable)
Evidence of name change (deed poll or marriage certificate, if relevant)

Where to Give Notice

You must attend a local register office in person. Appointments are required.Find your nearest register office on GOV.UK: 👉 Find a register officeYou can also browse our Registry Offices Directory for contact details and opening times across England and Wales.

What Happens at the Appointment

You and your partner (or separately if preferred) will confirm your details and eligibility.
The registrar will record your legal declarations and display the notice publicly for 29 days.
Once the waiting period ends, you’ll receive approval to proceed with your ceremony.

Fees

The standard statutory fee is £35 per person (or £47 if you are subject to immigration control). Additional local charges may apply for ceremony bookings or certificate copies.

Changing or Cancelling a Notice

If your ceremony details change or you move to a new district, you may need to give notice again. Contact your local register office as soon as possible for advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long before the wedding should we give notice?

At least 29 days before the ceremony, but many couples book appointments 2–3 months in advance.

Do we need to give notice in the same district as the ceremony?

No — you give notice in the district where you live, not where you’re getting married.

Can we give notice online?

No. Notice must be given in person at a register office.

What happens if our notice expires?

If your ceremony doesn’t take place within 12 months, you’ll need to give notice again and pay the fees again.