What are the rules for a church wedding?

Short answer

Church wedding rules depend on the church and where you live in the UK. In England and Wales, Church of England weddings usually need banns read or a licence. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, rules vary, so check with the minister or registrar.

For a Church of England or Church in Wales wedding, you usually need banns read in your parish church on three Sundays before the ceremony, or you can apply for a licence instead. You must give notice at the register office if you are marrying in a registered religious building in England or Wales, at least 28 days before the day. In Scotland, you submit a marriage notice to the registrar at least 29 days ahead, and the ceremony can happen in a church agreed with the minister. In Northern Ireland, you give notice to the registrar 28 days before.

Each church has its own rules about who can marry there. Some require you to live in the parish, attend services, or have a connection to the congregation. Others are more flexible. You will also need two witnesses aged 16 or over in Scotland, or any age in England and Wales. Since February 2023, you must be 18 to marry anywhere in the UK.

If you are not sure about a specific rule, ask the vicar, minister or priest directly. They will explain what is needed. For legal details that can change, check GOV.UK or your local register office. Remember, a religious ceremony is only legally binding if it happens in a building registered for marriages, with an authorised person present.