How to Get Married in Vancouver: A Complete Guide for Locals and Overseas Couples | Vancity Officiant Wedding Guide

Vancouver, British Columbia is one of the most breathtaking places in the world to get married. Whether you're a local couple planning a West Coast wedding or visiting from overseas for a destination ceremony, Vancouver offers stunning venues, scenic parks, and a smooth legal process that makes tying the knot both easy and unforgettable.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from legal requirements and officiant options to top venues and outdoor ceremony locations throughout the region.

WHY GET MARRIED IN VANCOUVER?

Couples choose Vancouver as their wedding destination for many reasons:

• World-class scenery that includes mountains, beaches, forests, and skyline views

• A blend of modern venues and natural landscapes

• A simple legal process, ideal for both locals and international visitors

• Recognized marriage certificates valid in most countries

• Countless beautiful locations for both large weddings and intimate elopements

  
  

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS TO GET MARRIED IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

Getting legally married in Vancouver is a straightforward process. Here's how it works:

1. Obtain a Marriage License

• Apply in person at any Marriage License Issuer in British Columbia

• Only one partner needs to apply, but must bring valid government-issued ID for both parties

• The license costs $100 CAD and is valid for three months

• There are no residency or citizenship requirements
  

2. Choose a Legal Wedding Officiant

The ceremony must be performed by one of the following:

• A licensed wedding officiant (such as a Vancity Officiant)

• A religious representative registered with BC Vital Statistics

• A civil marriage commissioner appointed by the government
  

3. Have Two Witnesses

You must have two witnesses present at your ceremony. If needed, your officiant can help arrange them.

4. Sign the Legal Documents

You, your partner, the officiant, and the witnesses will sign the Marriage License and Registration of Marriage during the ceremony.

5. Register Your Marriage

Your officiant will submit the signed documents to BC Vital Statistics to legally register your marriage.

6. Order Your Marriage Certificate

Once your marriage is registered (typically within three weeks), you will receive your marriage certificate by mail.

---

TOP INDOOR WEDDING VENUES IN VANCOUVER

Looking for a reliable, stylish space for your ceremony or reception? Vancouver offers a wide range of indoor venues for all types of weddings.

Vancouver City Hall

A historic and elegant location, ideal for weekday civil ceremonies and elopements. Website | Google Maps

The Wallace at the Shipyards

A modern waterfront venue in North Vancouver with stunning views of the skyline and harbour. Website | Google Maps

Brix & Mortar (Yaletown)

A romantic, intimate restaurant venue with a covered courtyard perfect for weddings in any season. Website | Google Maps

Heritage Hall

Located on Main Street, this charming venue offers classic architecture and a timeless aesthetic. Website | Google Maps

UBC Botanical Garden

Though primarily outdoors, this location includes covered spaces and facilities ideal for ceremonies and receptions. Website | Google Maps

---

MOST POPULAR PARKS AND OUTDOOR WEDDING LOCATIONS IN VANCOUVER AND BC

British Columbia is known for its natural beauty. These parks and outdoor venues offer incredible settings for ceremonies and elopements.

Stanley Park

An iconic Vancouver location featuring rose gardens, forest trails, and waterfront views. Website | Google Maps

Queen Elizabeth Park

Known for its beautifully landscaped quarry garden and panoramic city views. Especially popular in spring and summer. Website | Google Maps

Jericho Beach

Beachfront location with mountain and ocean backdrops. Website | Google Maps

Spanish Banks

Beautiful shoreline park west of Jericho, known for low tides and great views. Website | Google Maps

VanDusen Botanical Garden

An urban garden oasis with a wide range of flowers and greenery throughout the year. Offers both indoor and outdoor options. Website | Google Maps

Burnaby Mountain Park

Peaceful and panoramic, this location offers grassy areas and open views of the surrounding region. Website | Google Maps

Golden Ears Provincial Park

Located less than an hour from Vancouver, this park features dramatic mountain views, lush forests, and access to Alouette Lake. It's a favourite for adventurous couples planning a scenic elopement or intimate outdoor wedding. Permits or day pass may be required. Website | Google Maps

---

GETTING MARRIED IN VANCOUVER AS AN OVERSEAS COUPLE

Planning a destination wedding in Vancouver? Here’s what you need to know:

• There is no residency or citizenship requirement to get married in British Columbia

• Bring valid government-issued photo ID, such as passports

• Your BC marriage certificate is recognized internationally (check if additional documentation is required in your home country)

• Vancouver International Airport makes travel easy for guests arriving from abroad

• Local wedding professionals, including officiants, photographers, and planners, can support you from afar
  

CHOOSING THE RIGHT OFFICIANT

An officiant does more than make your marriage legal—they help shape the feeling of your ceremony. At Vancity Officiant, we design ceremonies that reflect each couple’s unique story and suit the setting you’ve chosen, whether it's a beach, garden, or city venue.

Our goal is to create a moment that feels natural, meaningful, and true to you—wherever you are getting married in British Columbia.

PLANNING TIPS FOR A SMOOTH VANCOUVER WEDDING

• Book your venue and officiant early, especially in spring and summer

• For outdoor ceremonies, always check the weather forecast and come prepared with umbrellas and suitable attire to keep things running smoothly, rain or shine

• Hire a local photographer familiar with the area — and check out our elopement & photo package for a seamless experience

• Wear comfortable footwear for parks, trails, or beach locations

• Personalize your vows or include cultural traditions that reflect your background
  

READY TO GET MARRIED IN VANCOUVER?

Whether you're based in BC or planning from across the world, Vancouver is a spectacular and welcoming place to celebrate your love. At Vancity Officiant, we help couples create ceremonies that are heartfelt, inclusive, and stress-free.

Contact us today to start planning your wedding or elopement in Vancouver, British Columbia.

how to get married in vancouver, vancouver wedding guide, vancouver marriage license, vancouver wedding officiant, bc marriage requirements, vancouver elopement guide, destination wedding vancouver, get married in british columbia, wedding venues vancouver, vancouver park wedding, vancity officiant, vancouver civil ceremony, city hall wedding vancouver, outdoor wedding vancouver, vancouver elopement packages