How to Get Married in BC | Vancity Officiant Wedding Guide
- Vancity Officiant Team
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Current as of 2025
Getting legally married in British Columbia is straightforward once you understand how the process works. Whether you are planning an intimate signing in Vancouver, a small ceremony in Richmond, or an elopement anywhere across BC, this guide explains everything you need to know.
Crosslinks
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Married in BC
1. Apply for a BC Marriage Licence
You can apply for a marriage licence within three months of your ceremony date. Licences are issued by authorized marriage licence issuers throughout BC. You must apply in person.
What to bring: government-issued photo ID for both partners
Cost: $100 (non-refundable, payment methods vary)
Processing time: immediate, you will receive the licence on the spot
Tip: You do not need to live in BC to get married here. International and out-of-province couples are welcome.
External reference: BC Government – Getting Married in British Columbia
2. Choose a Licensed Marriage Officiant
A marriage is legally valid in BC only if it is performed by a registered marriage officiant, also known as a marriage commissioner or celebrant. At Vancity Officiant, our officiants are licensed by BC Vital Statistics and experienced in both legal and personalized ceremonies.
Couples in BC must be married by a registered officiant. At Vancity Officiant, all officiants are provincially licensed and experienced in both legal and personalized ceremonies.
3. Arrange Two Witnesses
Every legal ceremony in BC requires two witnesses. They can be friends, family members, or provided by your officiant team. Witness services are available through Vancity Officiant upon request.
If you prefer a simple legal signing, learn more about our Simple Wedding Signing in Vancouver.
4. Hold the Legal Ceremony
Your ceremony can take place anywhere in British Columbia, indoors or outdoors, private or public.
During the ceremony:
The officiant confirms your legal names and intent to marry.
Both partners state the Declaration of Intent.
You and your witnesses sign the official Marriage Licence and Registration Form.
Once signed, your marriage is legally complete.
If you prefer an indoor ceremony space, explore The Ensora, a private officiant-led, pet-friendly venue in Richmond designed for intimate ceremonies.
5. Receive Your Official Marriage Certificate
After your officiant registers your marriage with BC Vital Statistics, your first original marriage certificate will be mailed to you automatically.
If you later misplace it or wish to order additional certified copies, you can request them through the BC Government’s Order a Marriage Certificate page. This service is only for reordering or replacements, not for the first certificate.
External reference: BC Government – Order a Marriage Certificate
Legal Checklist
Valid marriage licence issued within three months
Registered officiant
Two witnesses
Completed Declaration of Intent and signatures
Getting Married in Vancouver, Richmond, or Nearby
If you are based in Metro Vancouver, you can choose between:
Indoor ceremony spaces such as The Ensora in Richmond, an officiant-led, pet-friendly, all-weather ready venue
Outdoor locations such as Stanley Park, Whytecliff Park, or Queen Elizabeth Park
Each option carries the same legal standing. The difference is in the atmosphere and experience.
External reference: City of Vancouver – Wedding Permits
Common Questions
Can I get married in BC if I am not a Canadian citizen?
Yes. BC welcomes international couples as long as both partners provide valid identification and obtain a marriage licence.
Can I have a private legal signing without a large wedding?
Yes. A signing ceremony led by an officiant is fully legal and ideal for couples who prefer a simple and intimate experience. Learn more about our Simple Wedding Signing in Vancouver at The Ensora for an officiant-led indoor ceremony experience.
About Vancity Officiant
Since 2014, we have officiated more than 2,000 ceremonies across British Columbia, from small elopements, grand weddings to pet-inclusive celebrations. Each ceremony is calm, intentional, and deeply meaningful, created to reflect your story.
Contact us or WhatsApp our officiants to plan your ceremony with ease.
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