How to Get a Marriage Licence in BC: Practical Tips from an Officiant | Vancity Officiant Wedding Guide
- Vancity Officiant Team
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Before You Apply
After understanding what a marriage licence is and where it fits in the BC marriage process, the next step is applying for one at the right time.
A marriage licence is a practical document with a specific purpose and limited validity. Applying too early, filling it out incorrectly, or treating it as a certificate can create unnecessary complications.
This guide focuses on practical, officiant-based advice to help couples complete this step smoothly.
Where and How to Get a Marriage Licence in BC
A marriage licence in British Columbia must be obtained in person from an authorized Marriage Licence Issuer.
The application process is straightforward and typically takes only a short amount of time when both applicants attend together with valid identification.
Because issuing locations and hours may change, couples should always confirm current details directly with the issuer before visiting.
The Marriage Licence Fee
There is a standard provincial fee of $100 CAD to obtain a marriage licence in British Columbia.
This fee is set by the province and has remained consistent as of 2026. Couples should be prepared to pay the fee at the time of application using the payment methods accepted by the issuing location.
Do Not Fill Anything In After You Receive the Licence
One of the most common mistakes couples make is writing on the marriage licence after receiving it.
Once the licence is issued, no additional information should be added by the couple. The officiant will:
Confirm the required information
Ask the necessary questions during the ceremony
Complete and verify the legal sections correctly
Altering or adding information to the licence can delay registration or require a replacement.
What Happens During the Ceremony
On the ceremony day:
The officiant will guide the legal declarations
Two witnesses are required
All required signatures will be completed at the appropriate time
The officiant is responsible for ensuring the paperwork is properly executed and submitted after the ceremony.
Couples do not need to manage or submit the licence themselves.
Timing Matters More Than Speed
Many couples feel pressure to obtain their marriage licence as early as possible. In practice, timing the licence correctly in relation to the ceremony date is far more important than obtaining it quickly.
In British Columbia, a marriage licence can be applied for up to three months before the ceremony date. The licence is valid for three months from the date of issue and will expire if the ceremony does not take place within that period. Applying earlier than this is not permitted.
Applying too early within that window can still create unnecessary stress if plans change. Applying too late can limit flexibility. An officiant can help confirm the appropriate timing based on your ceremony plans.
A Calm, Practical Step in a Simple Process
When handled correctly, obtaining a marriage licence is a straightforward administrative step. With a clear understanding of its purpose, and with the officiant managing the legal details during the ceremony, couples can approach this part of the process with confidence and ease.
For a broader understanding of how the marriage licence fits within the overall marriage process, you may also wish to read:
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