Ontario Marriage License

In Ontario, a valid marriage licence is required before your wedding can take place. The licence is valid for 90 days, so it should be obtained within three months of your wedding date.

You can apply for your marriage licence at any municipal office in Ontario—it does not need to be in the same city where your wedding will be held.

If either partner has been previously married, you will be required to provide official proof of divorce when applying for your marriage licence. This is typically your original or court-certified divorce certificate (or decree). Photocopies are not accepted.

On the day of your ceremony, you will need to provide your marriage licence to your officiant. They will complete and sign the necessary legal portions during the ceremony.

The signing of the licence is an important legal component of your wedding. This typically takes place during a brief pause in the ceremony, often accompanied by music or a meaningful selection to create a seamless and intentional moment.

Both partners, along with two witnesses, are required to sign the licence. Your witnesses do not need to be your maid of honour or best man—they can be parents, siblings, grandparents, or any two individuals you choose, as long as they are 18 years of age or older. They may be from anywhere in the world.

A small signing table is usually placed near the front of the ceremony space for this portion.

Once you have obtained your licence, it is helpful to take a photo or scan and share it with your officiant in advance. This allows them to prepare the required documentation ahead of time and helps ensure everything runs smoothly on your wedding day.

To apply for a marriage licence, please visit any municipal office in Ontario or apply online here.