Planning a wedding in British Columbia involves several administrative steps, starting with obtaining a valid marriage licence. In the province, marriage licences are issued by authorized licence issuers appointed by the Vital Statistics Agency. Couples must apply in person to an issuer, who can typically be found at select government offices, participating registry agents, or select Service BC locations. Because availability and specific operating hours vary by location, individuals planning a ceremony should review local office details in advance.
To obtain the licence, both people must appear together before the licence issuer. Each applicant is required to present primary identification to confirm legal name, identity, and date of birth. Acceptable government-issued identification generally includes a valid passport, a driver licence, or a BC Services Card for the Medical Services Plan. Birth certificates are also commonly accepted. The identification documents must be originals; photocopies or digital images on mobile devices are not accepted by issuers.
Applicants must also provide accurate personal information during the application process, including current residential addresses, birthplaces, and the full names and birthplaces of their parents. If either applicant has been previously married, documentation regarding the dissolution of the prior marriage may be required by the issuer. This can include a certificate of divorce or a death certificate of a former spouse, depending on the circumstances of the previous legal termination.
Once issued, a British Columbia marriage licence is subject to specific validity rules. Couples must confirm the exact expiry timeline directly with the issuing office or through official provincial resources, as licences are valid for a limited period from the date of issuance. Additionally, couples should verify whether any statutory waiting periods apply before the ceremony can legally take place. Official guidance, updates, and office locators are available through the provincial portal at British Columbia.
After the ceremony is performed by a registered marriage commissioner or a person authorized by a religious body, the completed licence must be signed by the couple, the official performing the ceremony, and two witnesses. The person who performs the ceremony is responsible for submitting the signed licence to the Vital Statistics Agency so that the marriage can be officially registered and a marriage certificate can subsequently be requested.