Both of you must complete the application for a marriage license. Only one of you needs to be present to submit it for processing.
When submitting the application, the following must be present for BOTH applicants:
- birth certificate or passport
- written parental consent if under 18
- proof of divorce if divorced in Canada (certified divorce decree)
- authorization from Minister of Consumer & Commercial Relations if divorced outside of Canada (see “What to do if you’ve been previously divorced”)
You can obtain an application for a marriage license by clicking here. This is a .pdf file that you can download, print and complete. The city of Niagara Falls, Ontario has an online application that you can complete. Click here to go there.
There is a list of Ontario municipalities where you can get a marriage license (or information about obtaining one) here.
A marriage license requires a fee of $100 Canadian.
Your marriage license is good for 90 days after issuance.
NOTE: There are no marriages performed at City Hall.
You must BOTH provide identification. Two pieces of ORIGINAL identification are required. One piece MUST be (birth certificate, any change of name certificate, current passport, record of Immigrant Landing, Canadian Citizenship Card or Adoption Papers). Second piece of identification MUST be photo identification e.g. Driver’s License or Health Card for both parties. Both parties MUST complete and sign an Application Form. However, if both parties are not able to apply in person for the Marriage License, one person may apply for the License but must bring in the completed Application form signed by both parties along with two pieces of identification as specified above.
Two pieces of ORIGINAL identification are required. One piece MUST be (birth certificate, any change of name certificate, current passport, record of Immigrant Landing, Canadian Citizenship Card or Adoption Papers). Second piece of identification MUST be photo identification e.g. Driver’s License or Health Card for both parties. Both parties MUST complete and sign an Application Form. However, if both parties are not able to apply in person for the Marriage License, one person may apply for the License but must bring in the completed Application form signed by both parties along with two pieces of identification as specified above.
If you have been previously divorced outside Canadian jurisdiction, you MUST obtain an authorization for a marriage license from the Minister of Consumer and Business Services prior to your application for a marriage license. Give yourself several weeks for this process. More information can be found in the section entitled “What to do if you’ve been previously divorced.”
Special note here: If you have been previously divorced, familiarize yourself with all of the requirements so that you won’t get turned away for your marriage license. This is a lengthy process but it is necessary for your license to be valid. Don’t go to Canada and “forget” to mention your divorce. If you reside in New York and you want your marriage recognized, it won’t be recognized as valid if your ex is spiteful enough to turn you in. Get it done right the first time.
