In Ireland, obtaining a marriage license requires several steps and adherence to specific regulations. The following outlines the procedure to obtain a marriage license in Ireland:
Notification of intention to marry
At least three months before your planned wedding date, you must notify a Registrar of Marriages in person of your intention to marry. Both parties are required to attend this meeting, during which the Registrar will guide you through the necessary paperwork and requirements. You can find the contact information for your local Civil Registration Service office on the Health Service Executive (HSE) website.
Click here to book your appointment online.
There is a non-refundable fee of €200 which is normally paid at the appointment.
Required documentation
Bring the following documents with you to your notification appointment:
- Proof of identity: A valid passport or national identity card for both parties.
- Proof of address: A recent utility bill, bank statement, or other official documents.
- Original birth certificates for both parties.
- If either party was previously married, provide a divorce decree (if divorced) or a death certificate (if widowed).
- PPS numbers (Personal Public Service Number) for both parties if living in Ireland.
Marriage registration form (MRF)
Once the Registrar has reviewed your documentation and is satisfied that you meet the legal requirements to marry, they will issue a Marriage Registration Form (MRF). This is effectively your marriage license, granting you permission to marry. The MRF should be given to the person solemnising your marriage.
Marriage ceremony
In Ireland, you can choose between a civil, religious, or secular ceremony. Regardless of the type of ceremony, you must have an authorized solemniser officiate the wedding, and it must take place in the presence of two witnesses aged 18 or older. The MRF must be signed by both parties, the witnesses, and the solemniser during the ceremony.
Registration of the marriage
After the ceremony, the solemniser is responsible for returning the signed MRF to a Registrar of Marriages within one month to register the marriage officially. Once the marriage has been registered, you can request a marriage certificate, which serves as proof of your marriage.
Remember that the specific requirements and documentation might vary slightly based on your nationality, residency status, and personal circumstances. It is always a good idea to consult your local Civil Registration Service office for the most up-to-date information and guidance.
