Navigating the Path to “Happily Ever After”
Legal Steps to Get Married in Ontario, Canada
Love is a beautiful journey, and for many couples, that journey takes them to the picturesque landscapes of Ontario, Canada, to exchange vows and begin a new chapter together. But before you say “I do” under the iconic Canadian maple leaves, it’s essential to understand the legal requirements that pave the way for your marital adventure. Let’s dive into the key steps you need to know to ensure your union is recognized and legally binding in the province.
1. Age and Consent
In Ontario, the legal age to get married without parental consent is 18 years old. If either party is under 18, written consent from a parent or legal guardian is required. Keep in mind that consent forms need to be signed in the presence of a commissioner of oaths or a notary public.
2. Obtaining a Marriage License
Before you start planning floral arrangements and seating charts, obtain a marriage license. This document is a fundamental prerequisite for tying the knot in Ontario. You and your partner must apply for the license together, in person, at your local municipal office. Remember to bring valid government-issued identification, such as a passport or driver’s license.
3. Documentation and Identification
When applying for a marriage license, you’ll need to provide documentation to prove your identity and age. Accepted forms of ID typically include passports, birth certificates, and immigration documents. Make sure your documents are up to date and in good condition before applying.
4. Choosing an Officiant
The officiant is the person who conducts the wedding ceremony and plays a significant role in making your marriage legal. Choose someone who is authorized by the province of Ontario to perform marriages. This can include religious leaders, judges, justices of the peace, humanist officiants and more. Make sure to check the officiant’s credentials and ensure they’re in compliance with the legal requirements.
Choose one of our preferred wedding officiants who will weave your love story into your ceremony for a truly unforgettable day.
5. Witnesses and Signatures
During the wedding ceremony, you’ll need at least two witnesses to sign the marriage license. These witnesses must be present during the ceremony and have valid identification. They play a crucial role in affirming the authenticity of your marriage and signing the necessary documents.
6. Registration of Marriage
After the wedding ceremony, the officiant and witnesses sign the marriage license. The officiant then sends the license to the Office of the Registrar General for registration. Once registered, the government issues a marriage certificate, which is an official record of your marriage. You can apply for a marriage certificate after the wedding for legal and personal purposes.
Embarking on the journey of marriage in Ontario, Canada, is an exciting and profound step in your life. Understanding the legal requirements ensures that your union is recognized and celebrated with the legitimacy it deserves. And to ensure that your entire day goes off without a hitch, explore our interactive wedding directory to find trusted wedding vendors across Southern Ontario and consider enlisting the expertise of a preferred wedding planner who can handle the details, leaving you to enjoy every moment of your special day.
Photo courtesy of John Lyons Photography
