Guidance on Civil and Religious Marriages

The following information gives advice and guidance on the procedures a couple need to follow in order to become married in Magherafelt and Northern Ireland. If you require further information or clarification on any of the information below, please contact us. Details of fees relating to marriages at approved places and in the Registrar's Office are available at the Finance and Administration section of this site.

Who can be married in Northern Ireland?

Any two persons, regardless of where they live, may marry in Northern Ireland provided that:

Both persons are at least sixteen years of age on the day of their marriage. Persons over sixteen and under eighteen years of age require parental consent;
They are not related to one another in a way, which would prevent their marrying;
They are unmarried (any person who has already been married must produce documentary evidence that the previous marriage has been ended by death, divorce or annulment);
They are not of the same sex; and
They are capable of understanding the nature of a marriage ceremony and of consent to marry.

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Who can solemnise marriage in Northern Ireland?

Civil marriages can only be solemnised by a Registrar or Deputy Registrar of Marriages who has been authorised by the Registrar General.

Religious marriages can only be solemnised by a person, e.g. Minister, Priest, Pastor, etc. who has been registered as an Officiant and who has been authorised by the Registrar General.

A temporary authorisation may be issued to allow a person who belongs to a religious body to solemnise a religious marriage.

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Choice of venue

Religious ceremonies may take place anywhere in Northern Ireland. However, the parties to the marriage should consult with the Officiant to confirm that the proposed venue is a place where the Officiant is able to solemnise a marriage.

Civil ceremonies may take place in a Regsitrar's Office or at an "Approved Place". Magherafelt District Council's Registrar will be able to provide details of the approved places in the Magherafelt District Council area.

If the parties to a marriage wish to apply for a temporary approval for civil marriage to be conducted at a place of their own choice, e.g. their home, the Magherafelt District Council's Registrar will be able to give advice about the application procedure and the necessary fee.

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Making arrangements for the marriage ceremony

It is important to make early arrangements for the date and time of your marriage.

If you are having a religious ceremony contact the Officiant who is to take the service, before completing the notice of marriage.

If you are planning a civil marriage you may wish to make advance arrangements with the Registrar. This is important to ensure the availability of the Registrar and to ensure that the proposed venue is an approved place.

You should arrange for two persons, aged sixteen or over, to be present at your marriage to act as witnesses. Witnesses are required in both religious and civil ceremonies.

You should advise the Officiant or the Registrar know if you change your plans or decide to postpone your marriage.

Further details may be obtained from the Registrar at Magherafelt District Council Offices.

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