Getting legally married in NSW: the paperwork timeline
TBC: Kyle to review this guide before it goes live
An elopement is still a legal marriage, and the paperwork runs to a fixed timetable set by the Commonwealth Marriage Act. Kyle is an authorised civil celebrant, so this is the part of the day he takes care of personally on most weddings we plan.
Up to 18 months before: the Notice of Intended Marriage
You sign a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) and give it to your celebrant at least one month, and no more than 18 months, before the wedding. Since June 2024 the notice can be witnessed remotely by video. If you are thinking about a date less than a month away, talk to us first.
Before the day: meeting your celebrant
Since 12 June 2024 your celebrant must meet each of you separately and in person before the wedding. Close to the day you also each sign a declaration that there is no legal impediment to the marriage. Your celebrant arranges both with you.
On the day: the ceremony and the certificates
Your celebrant must be physically present with you both and two witnesses. The ceremony must include certain words required by law, and the marriage certificates are signed by both of you, your celebrant and two witnesses aged over 18. For an elopement with no guests, ask us about witnesses.
Within 14 days: registration
Your celebrant sends the paperwork to the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages within 14 days, which registers the marriage. You then apply to the Registry for the official certificate, which is the one you use for a passport or name change.
Source: Attorney-General’s Department, Get married. Rules can change, so your celebrant will confirm the current requirements.