Getting legally married in Ontario is a straightforward process, but it does involve a few essential steps to ensure everything is done according to the law. Whether you’re planning a small, intimate ceremony or a large celebration, knowing how to get legally married is crucial for making your marriage official. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate the process with ease.
For those looking for professional wedding officiant services, Designed Dream specializes in providing clear, transparent packages for all your marriage needs in Toronto and the GTA. Whether you’re looking for a simple legal signing or a fully personalized wedding ceremony, our expert officiants are here to make your special day unforgettable.
1. Ensure You Meet the Legal Requirements
Before you can get married in Ontario, there are some basic legal requirements you need to meet:
- Age: Both parties must be at least 16 years old. If either person is under 18, they will need written consent from a parent or guardian.
- Marital Status: Neither party can currently be married to someone else. If previously married, a final divorce decree or death certificate for the former spouse is required.
- Consent: Both individuals must freely consent to the marriage. Any sign of coercion or duress will make the marriage invalid.
2. Apply for a Marriage License
In Ontario, you must apply for a marriage license before your wedding day. Here’s how to get one:
- Where to Apply: You can apply at any municipal office in Ontario. It’s typically best to apply in the area where you reside, but you can apply anywhere in the province.
- What You’ll Need:
- Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license).
- If either party is divorced, you’ll need to provide a divorce certificate.
- The marriage license application fee is typically around $125 (this may vary by municipality).
- Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license).
- Processing Time: Marriage licenses are usually issued immediately. However, it’s a good idea to apply at least one month before the ceremony to avoid any last-minute issues. The license is valid for up to 90 days, so there’s no need to rush.
3. Find a Licensed Officiant
A crucial step in getting legally married in Ontario is finding a licensed officiant. You have several options for officiants:
- Justice of the Peace: A legal officer who can perform civil ceremonies.
- Religious Officiant: A religious leader who is registered with the province can conduct religious ceremonies.
- Wedding Officiant: A licensed professional wedding officiant, like those at Designed Dream, can help you plan and deliver your ceremony.
If you choose Designed Dream for your officiant services, we offer packages tailored to your needs, including mobile services that come directly to your venue. Whether you want a quick legal signing or a fully personalized ceremony, our team will ensure everything runs smoothly.
4. Choose the Type of Ceremony
Ontario allows various types of ceremonies for your wedding:
- Civil Ceremony: This is a simple, legally binding ceremony. It’s usually brief and focuses on the official requirements, with no religious content. Perfect for those seeking a quick and straightforward legal marriage.
- Religious Ceremony: A wedding officiated by a religious leader according to their specific traditions. If this is your choice, ensure your officiant is registered to marry couples in Ontario.
- Symbolic Ceremony: Some couples opt for a symbolic ceremony if they have already legally married elsewhere. This type of ceremony allows for personalized vows and traditions but does not include the legal paperwork.
At Designed Dream, we specialize in all types of ceremonies and can tailor each one to reflect your unique preferences, ensuring your ceremony is memorable and personal.
5. Marriage Ceremony
On the day of your ceremony, your officiant will perform all the necessary steps to legally marry you. The key components of a legally binding marriage ceremony include:
- Legal Declaration: Your officiant will declare both parties legally married.
- Exchange of Vows: Couples typically exchange vows, either pre-written or personalized.
- Signing of the Marriage Register: After the vows, the couple, along with two witnesses, will sign the marriage register. This is an essential part of the legal process and ensures the marriage is officially recorded.
6. Witnesses for the Ceremony
Ontario law requires that at least two witnesses be present at the ceremony. These individuals must be over 18 and will sign the marriage register alongside the couple and officiant. Witnesses do not need to know the couple personally, but they must be present during the signing.
7. Marriage Certificate
Once the ceremony is completed, the officiant will file your marriage documents with the province. Afterward, you can apply for an official marriage certificate through ServiceOntario, either online or in person. This certificate serves as your legal proof of marriage.
8. Changing Your Name
After receiving your marriage certificate, either spouse may choose to change their last name. You will need to submit your marriage certificate when updating your name on various documents, such as your driver’s license, health card, or passport.
9. Special Considerations for Same-Sex Couples
Same-sex marriage has been legal in Ontario since 2003, and the process for getting married is the same as for heterosexual couples. All the same steps apply, and both partners are legally entitled to the same rights under Ontario law.
10. After the Wedding: What’s Next?
Once you’re legally married, there are a few administrative tasks you’ll need to handle:
- Marriage Certificate: Ensure you apply for and receive your official marriage certificate.
- Updating Your Records: Don’t forget to update your marital status on legal documents, such as your driver’s license, health card, and tax forms.
- Celebrate! Enjoy your newlywed life, whether you’re taking a honeymoon or just starting your journey together as a married couple.
Why Choose Designed Dream for Your Wedding Officiant Services?
At Designed Dream, we make your wedding officiation process seamless, whether you need a simple legal signing or a fully personalized ceremony. Our team of licensed officiants, Fidan Ismayilova and Milena Zilitinkevitz, are registered to legally marry you in Ontario. With a commitment to professionalism, flexibility, and personalized service, Designed Dream ensures your wedding day is stress-free and special.
If you’re ready to get started, reach out to us today for a free consultation! We’re here to help you every step of the way, from paperwork to ceremony.
Conclusion
Getting legally married in Ontario is a smooth process when you follow the right steps. From applying for your marriage license to selecting the right officiant, each step ensures that your marriage is legally recognized and meaningful. Designed Dream is here to guide you through the process with expert officiant services that cater to your needs.
Ready to get started? Contact us for your free consultation today!
