What do I need to know and do before I arrive in Australia to get married?

Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Married in Australia

Dreaming of saying “I do” in Australia? You’re not alone. Whether you’re flying in for a quick elopement or planning a big multicultural wedding, Australia makes it easy, inclusive, and truly unforgettable.

Why Choose Australia for Your Wedding?

Australia is one of the most welcoming countries in the world when it comes to marriage. Here’s why:

You don’t need to live here before getting married.
You can arrive on a tourist visa, marry in the morning, have lunch together as newlyweds, and fly home by evening.
Marriage equality is enshrined in law – everyone, including LGBTIQA+ couples, has the same right to marry.

Plus, Australians are famously friendly and relaxed, making your wedding experience smooth and stress-free.

Who Can Legally Marry in Australia?

Almost anyone can get married in Australia, no matter your nationality, ethnicity, job, income, age (as long as over 18), gender, or sexuality. The only legal requirements are:

Both partners must be over 18 years old (unless a court has approved a marriage where one party is 16-18 years old, but both cannot be under 18).
Neither can be currently married to someone else. You’ll need to show:
- A divorce certificate, or
- A death certificate of your former spouse, or
- An annulment decree.
You cannot be in a prohibited relationship (close blood or adoptive ties).

Who Can You Marry in Australia?

You can legally marry your:

Cousin (first or second)
Aunt or uncle
Niece or nephew
Stepparent or stepsibling (if there’s no legal adoption)

Who Can’t You Marry in Australia?

Marriage is strictly prohibited with your:

Parent or adopted parent
Child or adopted child
Grandparent or adopted grandparent
Grandchild or adopted grandchild
Sibling, half-sibling, or adopted sibling

Forced marriages are illegal in Australia. Marriage must always be by free will and genuine consent.

How to Lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)

The NOIM is your first legal step. You can download it here. Complete and sign it before an authorised witness, then lodge it with your celebrant at least one month before your wedding date. It is valid for 18 months.

Choosing the Right Marriage Celebrant

An authorised celebrant conducts your wedding legally. Good celebrants:

Personalise your ceremony to match your culture and values.
Offer sample vows and ceremony structures.
Guide you through paperwork and requirements.

Look for celebrants with great reviews, experience with diverse weddings, and a style that suits your vision. Book early – popular celebrants fill up fast!

Documents You Need to Get Married

Passport (or birth certificate + photo ID)
Divorce, death, or annulment certificate if previously married

All non-English documents need certified English translations.

Do You Need a Visa to Marry in Australia?

Yes. You need a visa to enter Australia, even if it’s just for one day. Most couples arrive on a tourist visa. If you plan to live here with your spouse, consult Emigrate Lawyers about partner and prospective marriage visas.

After Your Wedding: Registering the Marriage

Once married, your celebrant will lodge your paperwork with the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages for official registration. Processing times vary by state, from a week to a month, before you receive your official marriage certificate, which you’ll need for name changes and immigration applications.

Final Tips for a Stress-Free Aussie Wedding

Book your celebrant early to secure your date.
Don’t leave the NOIM to the last minute – lodge it as soon as possible.
Plan for paperwork, travel, and celebration time.
Remember: it’s your wedding, your way. Big or small, traditional or modern – do what makes you happy.