Marriages

Where can I marry?

Getting married abroad

If you have any general enquiries about marrying abroad, you should contact the Embassy or High Commission of the country concerned.

It is possible you will be asked to obtain a certificate of no impediment. This is a document required by some foreign authorities to enable a non-national to marry in their country and, under certain circumstances, can be provided by your local register office. If you are asked to provide one, you should contact your local register office.

If you have been asked to provide an Apostille (which is simply formal confirmation that a signature, seal or stamp appearing on a document is genuine) see legalising certificates for overseas purposes or contact the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on 01908 295 111.

If you need any other information about marrying abroad please contact Marriages and Civil Partnerships.

Can I register my overseas marriage in England and Wales?

No, overseas marriages may not be registered at a register office. However if you are resident in the UK your overseas marriage documents, with translations if necessary can be deposited with the General Register Office via the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

If you are resident outside the UK, please contact your nearest British Consulate for advice on this service.

To find out more see the can I register my overseas marriage in England and Wales? page