Planning a wedding in Ontario, Canada, involves several steps, including obtaining a marriage license. The process can seem daunting, especially for couples who are not familiar with the requirements and regulations. In this article, we will delve into the secrets of obtaining an Ontario wedding license, providing you with the necessary information to make your special day a success.
Understanding the Basics of an Ontario Wedding License
An Ontario wedding license is a legal document that grants permission for two people to get married in the province. The license is issued by the Ontario government and is valid for a period of three months from the date of issuance. To obtain a marriage license, couples must meet certain eligibility criteria, including being at least 18 years old, not being currently married, and providing proof of identity and residency.
The process of obtaining a marriage license in Ontario involves several steps, including filling out an application form, providing required documents, and paying the applicable fee. The fee for a marriage license in Ontario is currently $140, and it can be paid by cash, debit, or credit card. Couples can apply for a marriage license at any city clerk's office or township office in Ontario, and the license is usually issued on the same day.
Required Documents for an Ontario Wedding License
To obtain a marriage license in Ontario, couples must provide certain documents, including:
- Valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport
- Proof of age, such as a birth certificate or passport
- Proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
- If applicable, a divorce or annulment certificate, or a death certificate of a previous spouse
Couples must also provide information about their parents, including their names and places of birth. This information is required for the marriage license application form and is used to create the marriage certificate.
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Valid government-issued photo identification | Must be valid and not expired |
| Proof of age | Must be a valid birth certificate or passport |
| Proof of residency | Must be a utility bill or lease agreement dated within the last 30 days |
Same-Sex Marriage and Ontario Wedding Licenses
Ontario recognizes same-sex marriage, and the process of obtaining a marriage license is the same for same-sex couples as it is for opposite-sex couples. Same-sex couples must meet the same eligibility criteria and provide the same documents as opposite-sex couples.
In 2005, the Canadian government passed the Civil Marriage Act, which legalized same-sex marriage across the country. Since then, same-sex couples have had the same rights and responsibilities as opposite-sex couples, including the right to marry and obtain a marriage license.
Changing Your Name After Marriage
After getting married, couples may want to change their last name to a shared surname. In Ontario, couples can change their last name by filling out a name change application form and providing the required documents, including their marriage certificate and identification.
Couples can choose to change their last name to a combination of their two surnames, or one partner can take the other's surname. The process of changing your name after marriage can take several weeks, so it's essential to plan ahead and apply for a name change as soon as possible after the wedding.
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Marriage certificate | Must be a certified copy of the marriage certificate |
| Identification | Must be valid government-issued photo identification |
What is the fee for an Ontario wedding license?
+The fee for an Ontario wedding license is currently $140.
How long is an Ontario wedding license valid for?
+An Ontario wedding license is valid for a period of three months from the date of issuance.
Can same-sex couples get married in Ontario?
+Yes, same-sex couples can get married in Ontario, and the process of obtaining a marriage license is the same as it is for opposite-sex couples.
In conclusion, obtaining an Ontario wedding license requires careful planning and attention to detail. By understanding the requirements and regulations, couples can ensure a smooth and stress-free process. Whether you’re a same-sex couple or an opposite-sex couple, getting married in Ontario is a significant milestone, and with the right information, you can make your special day a success.
