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Planning your wedding ceremony

Before having your marriage or civil partnership ceremony, there are several important things you need to do.

Give notice of intention

Before getting married or forming a civil partnership, you must both give notice of intention at a register office, usually in the district in which you live.

Giving notice involves attending an appointment at a register office where you will declare who you intend to marry or form a civil partnership with, where the ceremony will take place and that you are legally free to get married or form a civil partnership.

This is a legal requirement that must be completed at least 29 days prior to the ceremony. In certain cases, depending on your immigration status, this may be extended to 71 days. Therefore, we advise that whenever possible you give notice at least three-six months prior to your ceremony.

View the full guide for giving notice of intention

Published: 3 December 2020

Last updated: 28 April 2023